Guest Post

An article a little different from us but it still is toilet related. We've done a feature on the new iPotty set to hit stores this coming March and 'Blog for Parents' have hosted it on their website. Follow the link and see what you think...

Introducing iPotty for Babies 

What is the future of bathroom entertainment?

It seems that technology is the order of the day, with many publications, news stories and social media being geared towards gaming, albeit, the future of gaming.

With a buzz of activity surrounding computer game releases, the future of consoles and smart TVs, we felt it appropriate to take a look at how new technology could find its way into the humble bathroom.

The bathroom is an escape from the hustle and bustle of modern life, a peaceful haven where you can divulge your senses, so it could be deemed slightly taboo to incorporate high tech gadgets and gizmos into your bathing experience.

With that said, a lot of people use television and computer games to unwind, and combining the two could be a dream come true for many.

These state of the art additions cannot span as far as the entertainment systems found in the living and bedrooms, due to the harsher conditions they must live in, but still provide ample brain melting facilities.

The Luxurite Legend Series Digital Mirror TV

For example, the Luxurite Legend Series HD Ready, Digital, Silver Mirror Bathroom TV comes in a range of sizes and combines all the functions of a regular unit with an added twist. 

Purpose built for the bathroom environment, the stylish television is designed to withstand the perils of the bathroom environment and – when turned off – transforms into a contemporary mirror, perfect for that subtle contemporary edge.

Moreover, the Tilevision widescreen TV combines a heated glass screen and remote control, allowing the TV to be used in high humidity such as hot tubs, bathrooms and swimming pools – for us, the idea of watching TV while in a hot tub is heaven.

With past exploits in bathroom video games, we already know that the future is bright for toilet technology. It wasn’t long ago since we saw Sega develop urinal-mounted video game Toylet over in Japan.

So how about the two combined? We have smart TVs in the living room, heat resistant TVs in the bathroom and top developers like Sega creating games for the toilet; could this be the beginning of a bright future for Bathroom entertainment? The rubber duck won't get a look in any more...

Bathroom City 

Japanese Toilet Technology: the future?

Like when Bin Men refer to themselves as Refuse Collectors or media students call themselves freelancers, the Japanese toilet provides a top of the range function for a job which is pretty dull and thankless.

A rather thorough control panel, but what does it mean?

If you’ve had the pleasure to visit Japan you may have noticed their technology seems fair in advance to our own, similarly, you may have noticed that the toilets display a range of functions which could be deemed slightly pretentious.

We are all aware of what the standard procedure for a trip to the toilet in the UK entails and it’s pretty simple, but on exploring the delights that Japan has to offer, it seems rather prehistoric in comparison.

On encountering one of these technological marvels, after performing the ‘simple bit’ you are then left with a control panel of options, with each button displaying an undecipherable symbol.

With, your most sensitive areas at stake it may seem rather daunting which to press first; single square? Line of dots? Two lines of dots? Each symbol evoking a mass of confusion, you settle for one at random and are treated to a jet of water followed by a blow dry!

Nice? That technology maybe slightly shocking at first but at least it serves a purpose and it’s not too far from the common bidet; bar the fact a bidet doesn’t take you by surprise. Let’s move on to some more interesting technological advances in Japanese toilet tech.

The Otohime, or ‘Sound Princess’ is a technology that could only be pioneered by the Japanese. Ever been in a situation where, under no circumstances can passers by hear your toilet activity? Whether a poor diet or painful exit is to blame, Japanese ladies have to endure this rather embarrassing feat day in day out.

The Sound Princess: activated by movement or frantic waving

The Sound Princess provides a rather unconvincing flushing sound to mask the fact that you’re producing some of the most humiliating sounds the human body is capable of; saving water from extensive flushing and saving your integrity.

Moreover, in the words of George Orwell, ‘Big Brother is watching you’ and the next piece of technology we discovered could be deemed indecently ‘probing’. Through innocent eyes, the idea of a toilet examining your outgoings for blood pressure, body fat and sugar levels, and sending them straight to your doctor, is an in genius invention which will allow us all to live long a bountiful lives.

On the other hand, if the doctor can gain your information, then potentially the authorities can, and nothing could be worse then being arrested for a crime you didn’t poo!     

So next time you look down at that ever confusing control panel after devouring six trays of sushi and a pint of Saki, remember what may lurk beneath, and just stick with the bidet.

www.bathroomcity.co.uk

Guest Blog: A Pristine Bathroom Needs Pristine Water

You check the mirror above the vanity to make sure it’s straight and the final detail of your remodeling job is done.  You invested a lot of time and creative energy into improving the bathroom in your home. You did the research, picked out your favourite designs, and finally had the perfect fixtures installed. You are now the proud owner of the world’s most beautiful bathroom and all is well. Right?

From all outward appearances, you have everything you need, but there is one subtle detail you may not have considered. Now that you have a fantastically equipped bathroom, it’s time to treat yourself. Your bathroom is beautiful and you should be too. Unfortunately, the water that comes from your tap is treated with chemicals to kill bacteria and viruses. While those chemicals make the water safe to drink, it can also cause damage to your skin and hair.

If you have sensitive skin, chemical-treated water can cause itching or a rash, but even healthy skin will suffer from the harmful effects.  Most water treatment systems only add a small amount of chemicals to the water to disinfect it, but that small amount is enough to cause damage over time. These chemicals dry out your skin and strip it of natural oils which help keep your skin smooth and prevent wrinkles. Remember, when you have dry skin, you’ll probably have a dry scalp which means your hair has less moisture.  Without natural moisture, your hair won’t have its natural shine, bounce, or manageability.

So while you’re installing that perfect shower head, why not install a water filter at the same time. An activated carbon shower filter will reduce chlorine and other impurities from the water, making it safer and healthier for your skin. A filter reduces particulates and helps soften the water so you can feel the difference when you shower.  An added bonus- many of the shower filter systems can be installed on the water line so you don’t have to sacrifice your favorite shower head. 

Why should you have to live with anything other than the best water? Treat yourself to a more enjoyable shower experience and help keep your skin healthy.

Andrew Clement has been writing about water quality and treatment since 2009. He is a blogger for WaterFilters.NET and his interests include public health, water quality, and water treatment systems.

You’re Bathing Wrong?

For a healthy and happy life you must get an education, find a partner, earn lots of money and wash everyday, right? Wrong! Well, the first three maybe but the latter is scientifically bad for you.

Yes, although it is encouraged by your family and piers from day one, it is actually better for your body to give a shower a miss from time to time; it could potentially lose you friends, but on the other hand it is healthy, here’s why…

Bathing daily scrubs off a protective layer called ‘horny’ (this blog is not a joke or lie). The horny layer protects our living cells, and by getting rid of it, you increase the risk of disease; we say disease but it’s probably mainly acne; which is also not cool.

Here’s for the worst part, showering does not actually get rid of bacteria, it simply moves the little guys around so you may end up with bacteria from let’s say a ‘less heavenly’ part of your body on your hand or better yet, your face.

We’re not saying resort to one shower a week because it’s socially unacceptable, will lose you friends, and possibly get you beaten up: but, once or twice a week you need to give your skin a rest from constant vigorous showering.

A great way to preserve your horny layer is to use only a small amount of soap when showering, using moisturiser and air drying yourself rather then rubbing with a towel. Yes, swanning around your house naked in front of the neighbors or housemates may be frowned upon, but at least you’ll be safe in the knowledge that your beloved skin is forever horny!

At Bathroom City we offer a huge range of shower heads with various settings that could help you preserve you skin, keeping you vibrant and healthy.

www.bathroomcity.co.uk

Grohe's Shower Revolution

A deep, hot bubble bath can be one of the best ways to unwind at the end of a long day, and with all the advances in whirlpool technology and jacuzzi’s growing in popularity in the home bathroom; you would think that bathing is the only way to fully relax.

Of course, Baths do all of the above but so can the humble shower, and with companies like Grohe at the forefront of technology, there is certainly more to showering then you may think.

Grohe’s development of Dream Spray Systems has certainly changed the face of showering, from a quick stand up option to a much more enjoyable experience which will have you showering until your fingers are prunes.

Grohe offers several different spray options from their latest shower heads: Rain spray, Massage spray, Jet spray and their latest technology, Rain o2 spray. Each option comes with its own unique characteristics which can be accessed through the simple click of a button.

Rain spray promises simple satisfaction through emulating the ambience of summer rain, giving you a refreshing rejuvenation. Similarly, their newest development Rain o2 spray also provides a similar effect but draws in oxygen to mix with the water and create a wider vibrant spray.

The Massage spray does exactly what it says on the tin but providing a pulsating jet which can relax your muscles and with a detachable handset, we found it perfect to concentrate on single areas.

Moreover, the Jet spray is firm blast, ideal for getting off touch mud after playing sport or manual labour and decreases the work you have to put in scrubbing with a sponge or scourer.

We recommend having a play with one of Grohe’s Dream Spray handsets at one of our showrooms, as the choice of options will have you choosing to unwind in your shower before you know it. 

www.bathroomcity.co.uk

We've been featured!

We have been featured on corearchitect.co.uk. Check out our article on Jacuzzi at http://www.corearchitect.co.uk/there-jacuzzi-jacuzzis/

Vertical Bathroom

Here's something to be amazed by on a rainy Wednesday afternoon- The Vertebrae Vertical Bathroom. 

Occupying a mere 4.3 square feet, this "Swiss Army Knife Bathroom" takes space conservation to a whole new level, packing a toilet, sink, cistern, two storage units and two shower heads into one compact system.

We think it's a brilliant idea, but what about you?

Toilet powered video games?

Something a little odd for you to ponder upon this afternoon..

Sega's latest video game 'Toylet' takes playing video games while you're in the bathroom to a whole new level.

Dubbed as Toylet, the urinal-mounted game system not only has you play games while you're in the bathroom, it's powered by urine.

Rather than use a traditional controller, the gaming system has a sensor that measures the volume and pressure involved in urine flow, and uses that to control a game.

Games are less than a minute and are displayed on a small eye-level screen.
It is not exactly a game system for the kids, it involve doing things like filling a coffee can or blowing wind up an animated reporter's skirt.

Since, the system can only be used on urinals it is meant only for men. The rate of the equipment reportedly starts at 1750 dollars and 125 dollars for each game.

An optional box can be purchased to accept payment from potential game players, turning the urinal into pay-to-play bathroom arcade.

Advertisements can also be sold for and displayed on the Toylet after each completed game. Sega initially tested the gaming systems in Tokyo last winter, and received enough positive reviews that it has decided to roll out the gaming systems across the country.

According to the company people using the Toylet make less of a mess while they're taking care of business, and the businesses that advertise on the Toylet sell twice as much. 

What do you think?

World's FASTEST toilet!

As it's Friday and we're feeling a bit silly here's a bit of 'Friday Fun' for you. 

Jolene Van Vugt, a stunt woman from Canada, was 'flushed' with pride after setting a new land speed record for the world’s fastest motorised toilet. Yes, a motorised toilet!

31-year-old Van Vugt managed to beat the previous world record by 4.5 mph, eventually getting her mechanical loo up to an impressive 46 mph.

She completed the stunt in both directions with an average of the two speeds taken to give her the new world record.

The lav loving record breaker said: "“I flew into Australia yesterday and came out here to jump straight on the toilet.”

“That was so fun and I'm stoked to get the record.”

Apparently some of the bike's control are even made out of bits of toilet too. Whatever next!

Check out the video below and let us know what you think.