August 2019 - Our Thoughts

Upgrade Your Medicine Cabinets With DecaDom!

Few bathroom storage options are more convenient than a medicine cabinet. In addition to providing ample storage space for many of your toiletries, the inclusion of a mirrored surface will make it that much easier to get ready in the morning.

Of course, not all medicine cabinets are created equal, and new innovations in technology and manufacturing are resulting in updated models that deliver better looks and performance than ever before.

If you are planning to upgrade your bathroom, you can’t go wrong with choosing a medicine cabinet from DecaDom. Here is a closer look at the exciting range of products offered by this innovative brand.

The DecaDom Difference

DecaDom medicine cabinets are ETL certified and designed with luxury features and a distinctive style that blend seamlessly with any bathroom setup. All DecaDom medicine cabinets use a high-end premium
finish and host of user-friendly features to provide a product that looks and performs great.

These medicine cabinets are more accurately described as LED mirror cabinets, because each model features LED task lighting that can be used to further streamline your morning routine.

Despite the many tech features included in these modern medicine cabinets, you won’t have to worry about damp, humid conditions causing problems. Each cabinet is IP44 and IP65.4 rated, meaning that the cabinets are protected from dust ingress, low pressure water jets, and water spray. They are perfectly equipped for continual bathroom use.

Better still, DecaDom medicine cabinets are designed for easy installation, whether you prefer a recessed or surface mount. This will lower your installation costs, and depending on your level of handyman expertise, you may even be able to install the cabinet almost completely on your own. Each model comes with a mount install hardware kit, so you will have everything you need to get started with the installation right away.

Without further ado, here is a closer look at each of the medicine cabinet models offered by DecaDom, highlighting the distinctive features that are found in each variety.

DECADOM 2430LH 24 X 30 INCH MEDICINE CABINET WITH LED LIGHT – DIMMER / DEFOGGER / CLOCK / LED COSMETIC MIRROR / OUTLET – USB / BLUM 170 ° SWING / SOFT CLOSE, LEFT HINGE

The DecaDom 2430LH 24 x 30 medicine cabinet may be the smallest of the brand’s available cabinets, but it certainly is not lacking in features. An LED task light can be set to warm, neutral, or cool lighting to better match your desired ambiance.

The dimmable light is controlled via touch, and the LED cosmetic mirror features 3x zoom to make it easier to get through your routine. The cabinet also includes an auto off/on interior LED light so you can have easy access to your bathroom supplies at any time of day or night. At 24 inches wide, the four shelves inside this medicine cabinet still provide plenty of space, particularly if you already have a quality bathroom vanity. The hinge on this model opens to the left side.

DECADOM 2430RH 24 X 30 INCH MEDICINE CABINET WITH LED LIGHT – DIMMER / DEFOGGER / CLOCK / LED COSMETIC MIRROR / OUTLET – USB / BLUM 170 ° SWING / SOFT CLOSE, RIGHT HINGE

The second 24-inch width DecaDom medicine cabinet is essentially identical to the first, but with the distinction that its door opens using a hinge on the right side. This may seem like a small difference, but it’s an important one to consider when making an installation that is well-suited to your layout — especially for a smaller bathroom!

In addition to LED lighting, these medicine cabinets feature hidden and adjustable shelf clips, allowing you to customize the interior according to your unique storage needs with a seamless no holes on interior side look. The medicine cabinet door features a Blum soft close mechanism, with a hinge that allows for an open swing of up to 170 degrees.

DECADOM 3030DD 30 X 30 INCH MEDICINE CABINET WITH LED LIGHT – DIMMER / DEFOGGER / CLOCK / LED COSMETIC MIRROR / OUTLET – USB / BLUM 170 ° SWING / SOFT CLOSE

The 30-inch width DecaDom medicine cabinet is the first size to feature two doors — a 20-inch left door and a 10-inch right door. This gives the cabinet a distinctly modern look, while still maintaining the wide open and soft close features of other models.

Another key feature that you will find in DecaDom medicine cabinets is the inclusion of defogging heated glass and an integrated digital clock. Touch screen buttons on the mirror surface give you total control over these features. For example, you can turn on the defogger before getting in the shower so that once you are done bathing, you can shave or put on makeup without having to wipe steam from the glass.

DECADOM 3630DD 36 X 30 INCH MEDICINE CABINET WITH LED LIGHT – DIMMER / DEFOGGER / CLOCK / LED COSMETIC MIRROR / OUTLET – USB / BLUM 170 ° SWING / SOFT CLOSE

The next size up is a 36-inch wide medicine cabinet. Similar to the 30 inch model, this medicine cabinet features both left and right doors, though the sizes are somewhat larger — 24 inches for the left door, and 12 inches for the right.

As with other DecaDom medicine cabinets, this model is built to stand the test of time. The medicine cabinet is made using anodized anti-corrosion aluminum, ensuring that the appearance of the metal won’t deteriorate over time. It also uses a silver, copper-free mirror. The interior shelves are made from 8 mm thick glass, ensuring durable results.

DECADOM 4830DD 48 X 30 INCH MEDICINE CABINET WITH LED LIGHT – DIMMER / DEFOGGER / CLOCK / LED COSMETIC MIRROR / OUTLET – USB / BLUM 170 ° SWING / SOFT CLOSE

The largest DecaDom medicine cabinet features an impressive 48-inch width, with two 24-inch doors. These dimensions are even more impressive when you consider that the front and back door and back wall of the medicine cabinet are all mirrored. The medicine cabinet also includes double LED cosmetic door with 3x Zoom, as well as side mirrors that can be easily removed if desired for recessed in wall installation.

DecaDom medicine cabinets also feature a dual outlet 20 Amp, as well as two USB 2.0 outlets. Whether you need to plug in a hair dryer or charge your phone, this convenient addition makes it easy to take care of these tasks as part of your morning routine.

Which Medicine Cabinet is Right For You?

Unlike other medicine cabinet brands, you don’t have to pick and choose which features you get when buying a DecaDom product. Each of the features mentioned above — from a touch-screen defogger to USB outlets — is included in every DecaDom medicine cabinet. Better still, each of these bathroom products is backed by a two-year warranty so you can have confidence in your purchase. DecaDom cabinets don’t just look good. They are also built to last.

As a result, you don’t have to worry about which features you want the most from a modern medicine cabinet when buying from DecaDom. Instead, you can focus on the fundamentals — namely, which size medicine cabinet will be the best fit for your bathroom.

With this in mind, you will want to consider two primary factors: how much additional storage space you need, and how much wall space is available in your bathroom for a new medicine cabinet.

One good rule of thumb is to use your current medicine cabinet for a sizing guideline (if available). Take the measurements of your current cabinet to better understand how its dimensions compare with the options available from DecaDom. Be mindful of why you want to replace your current medicine cabinet — is it outdated, or is it not big enough for your bathroom storage needs?

If you don’t plan on simply replacing an existing medicine cabinet, you will need to measure out the dimensions of your desired cabinet along your wall, penciling in the area where you think it would be a good fit. Remember, most home improvement professionals recommend that the top of the medicine cabinet be approximately 72 to 75 inches above the floor.

If your DecaDom purchase will be the first time you install a medicine cabinet in the bathroom, you must be aware of any obstructions behind the wall, as this could impact your ability to install a recessed cabinet. The presence of plumbing pipes, electrical wiring, or even a load-bearing stud could prevent the installation of a cabinet in certain locations or require extensive re-routing of utilities behind your wall.

Such considerations won’t be an issue if you are planning to surface mount your new medicine cabinet, but once again, you should be mindful of how this installation will affect your bathroom space. With a depth of five inches, surface mounted DecaDom cabinets will protrude from the wall, which could make a smaller space feel more crowded. You could always refer to professionally done Decadom manual instructions.

If your available bathroom space allows for several different sizing options, you should consider how much you plan to store in the medicine cabinet on a daily basis. While a smaller 24-inch width model could be perfect for a guest bathroom, you would likely want a larger model for a master suite shared by you and your spouse. When in doubt, it’s better to go larger — this way, you won’t have to worry about running out of space later on.

Installation Considerations

While the process of installing a DecaDom medicine cabinet is fairly straightforward (particularly if using a surface mount), there is one key consideration that needs to be made: the electrical wiring. After all, you can’t get much use out of features like LED lighting or USB outlets if the medicine cabinet does not have access to electricity!

To ensure safe and reliable results, the wiring should be performed by a licensed electrician. Power to the area should be shut off before connecting the cabinet wire to the permanent wiring system. The cabinet must be connected to a 120 VAC 20 Amp GFI protected circuit to ensure compliance with the National Electric Code.

While this task is fairly simple for a trained installer, it is one area where you should never try to cut corners. Amateur efforts could result in electrocution or damage to the medicine cabinet. Save yourself time and stress by letting a professional take care of this element of the work. Many remodeling contractors have team members who are qualified to take care of this important task while also completing the rest of the medicine cabinet installation (alongside your other bathroom upgrades).

Parting Thoughts

Everyone wants to enjoy a top-of-the-line, luxury bathroom. But at the same time, transforming your bathroom from what it is to what you want it to be can be rather pricy. Thankfully, when you order from Kitchen & Bath Authority, you get access to exclusive savings that will stretch your remodeling budget that much further.

We offer significant discounts on all DecaDom medicine cabinets, as well as hundreds of other kitchen and bathroom products. With savings of over 30 percent off MSRP, you can literally save hundreds of dollars on your DecaDom medicine cabinet purchase.

There are still more ways to save! If you sign up for a Kitchen & Bath Authority membership, you gain access to exclusive additional discounts on all products offered in our store, as well as free shipping. As just one example, members can currently save an additional $95.88 on DecaDom 24” medicine cabinets.

Upgrading your bathroom is a major endeavor, but it doesn’t have to break the bank. With Kitchen & Bath Authority and DecaDom, you will be able to get the performance and style you want at a price you can afford.

5 Tips to Reduce Expenses For Your Bathroom Remodel

Few home improvement projects can have the level of impact as a bathroom remodel. However, there is no denying that this remodeling work can be surprisingly expensive. An estimate by HomeAdvisor puts the average cost of a bathroom renovation at $10,364, with high end projects costing as much as $25,000. Even a low-scale remodel will typically cost well over $2,500.

While some smart financial planning can allow you to set a larger budget for your bathroom remodel, it is essential that you don’t let this much-needed upgrade put added stress on your finances.

The good news is that while bathroom remodeling will still be a significant investment, there are many strategies you can use to cut costs without compromising on the overall aesthetics and functionality of the bathroom.

Budgeting Basics For a Bathroom Remodel

As with any other major investment, you should carefully consider how much you can afford to spend on your bathroom remodel. Because of their higher costs, several financing options are available for homeowners planning on these projects.

For example, many homeowners will take out a personal home improvement loan. These loans usually cover costs up to $35,000 and can be secured if you have a good credit score and can provide proof of income. As with most mortgages, a personal home improvement loan has a fixed interest rate, and you will pay a fixed monthly amount over the life of the loan.

Homeowners can also take out a line of credit or home equity loan, or use a home improvement credit card. Home improvement credit cards work similarly to a standard credit card, but often have higher limits to help cover the costs of the remodel. Though many offer 0 percent interest as an introductory rate, interest rates can quickly climb to be as high as 24 percent once the promotional period has ended. You must be especially cautious to monitor your spending if you choose this option.

Regardless of how you choose to finance your bathroom remodel, you must carefully consider how much you can afford to spend each month as you pay off your project. A $200 monthly payment may be perfectly manageable for some families, but put undue financial pressure on others.

To help you determine how much you can afford, many financial experts recommend following the “50/30/20 budget.” In this budgeting plan, 50 percent of your monthly spending goes to needs (like mortgage payments or groceries), 30 percent goes to wants (such as shopping trips or dining out), and the last 20 percent goes to your savings account.

Since bathroom remodeling is typically done for aesthetic reasons, it is more likely to count as a want, rather than a need. Rather than taking away from how much you put toward savings, you may be better served by temporarily cutting back on some of your other wants. Even something as simple as not going out to eat as often while you pay off your bathroom remodel can ensure that you have enough money to cover the project.

You should always have a detailed understanding of the scope of your remodeling project before you start looking for quotes. When you know how much you plan to change and provide contractors with accurate information, you will get a much clearer picture of how much you need to budget for the work. This can also give you a better idea of any adjustments you might need to make to your original plans to improve affordability.

Of course, you can stretch your budget further by making your bathroom remodel as cost-effective as possible. Here are a few key tips to ensure that you don’t overspend.

1. Plan For the Unexpected

When setting a budget for a bathroom remodel, understanding the size of your bathroom and the projected scope of the remodeling work will give you a rough estimate of how much everything should cost. However, your initial budgeting shouldn’t stop there. You should always budget more money toward the project to plan for unexpected issues that could arise during the process.

Most remodeling experts actually recommend that you allocate between 10 and 20 percent of your total remodeling budget to “unexpected costs.” If you’re lucky, you won’t need to dip into these funds, helping you spend less than expected on your project. But if you’re not prepared, there are many issues that could cause you to go significantly over budget.

Hidden damage is a surprisingly common issue in remodeling, in large part because issues like black mold growth and other forms of water damage often aren’t visible until old fixtures and materials have been removed. If you live in an older home, the plumbing and wiring may no longer be up to code. Depending on their scope, these unexpected repairs and required upgrades could cost thousands of dollars.

Delays can also prove costly if you are working with contractors. Repairs or delays in obtaining needed materials could require alternative contractor hires, the replacement or storage of materials, and other cost increases. Look for ways to prevent delays whenever possible, but always be sure you have enough space in your budget to account for the unexpected.

2. Should You DIY?

DIYing is all the rage these days, and if done right, it can lead to significant savings for your bathroom remodel. In fact, the previously cited HomeAdvisor estimate listed contract labor as accounting for an average of 40 to 65 percent of the total remodeling budget. It is easy to see how doing remodeling work yourself could slash your budget, even if it would require a greater investment of your time.

The flip side of the DIY question is your ability to get the job done right. While you don’t need much technical expertise to repaint your bathroom walls, installing a new shower fixture is an entirely different matter. If you do the job wrong, plumbing issues could cause significant damage. You would ultimately end up paying far more if you had to hire a professional to come in and correct your mistakes.

So what should you do? Determining whether you should DIY part or all of your bathroom remodel largely depends on your confidence in your own abilities. For most homeowners, the best solution is to find some sort of middle ground.

Depending on your skill level, repainting the walls or simple plumbing tasks (like replacing an outdated faucet) can be done on your own to reduce labor costs. Removing and disposing of old fixtures is another common DIY task. In general, more complex tasks should be left to a professional. However, if you are particularly handy, you could even take on these more challenging jobs to further reduce your expenses.

As you decide whether to DIY part or all of your bathroom remodeling work, it also helps to consider the trade-off of time. Are you willing to dedicate your evenings and weekends to remodeling work? In some cases, the time savings and reduced stress of having a contractor do the work are worth the cost. Whenever you hire a contractor, be sure to get multiple quotes before making a hiring decision so you can find the best value for your money.

3. Know Where to Buy Your Upgrades

While a custom-built vanity or shower enclosure certainly has its own unique appeal, these products tend to be far more expensive than getting a standard production item. In fact, a custom built product can sometimes cost as much as 10 times more than an “off the shelf” alternative. These days, however, the sheer number of options available means you don’t have to purchase a custom-made product to find something that perfectly fits your bathroom.

Vanities, shower enclosures, bathtubs, medicine cabinets, and more are all available in a wide variety of sizes and styles. This makes it easy to find something that fits your personal tastes at a price you can afford.

Similar savings apply to the materials you choose for your walls and flooring. While ceramic tile is a stylish and durable flooring option, it is also one of the most expensive. Depending on your preferences, you could still get the quality looks and performance you desire with cheaper alternatives like linoleum or vinyl plank.

As with choosing a contractor, where you buy fixtures, furniture, and materials matters for your total remodeling costs. Here at Kitchen & Bath Authority, we offer high-quality vanities, faucets, sinks, shower doors, toilets, and more at significant discounts off MSRP. You can get the beautiful, functional bathroom products you want at a more affordable price than at other retailers so you can get more out of your budget.

You don’t have to go custom to get something that looks and performs great. Today’s manufacturers make their products with several sizing options to better fit the unique layouts of different bathrooms.

4. Stick With the Same Layout

The scope of a bathroom remodel is one of the biggest factors in determining the overall cost. You can save a lot of money if you keep your current layout as-is, rather than doing a complete tear down that requires the re-routing of plumbing and electrical wiring.

The more complex your renovation plans get, the more labor that will be required to turn them into reality. Knocking down a wall to expand the bathroom to make room for a shower enclosure and standalone tub will require the help of a demolition expert, as well as a plumber and bathroom designer. Adjusting the location of the vanity will likely entail new plumbing and electrical installations. Moving the toilet is an especially complex plumbing task that tends to be far more expensive than most homeowners expect.

Not only will such tasks require the hiring of additional specialists, but they will also increase the total labor and materials costs associated with your project. While it is true that some redesigns simply will not work without an upgraded layout, you will enjoy significant savings (and enjoy a faster completion of the project) if you keep the layout as-is.

For example, by installing a new vanity in the exact same position as your old one, you won’t have to worry about re-routing pipes. You won’t need to hire an electrician to install new outlets in a different part of the bathroom. You can even keep your medicine cabinet or mirror in the same place.

As long as your current bathroom layout is functional as-is, simply giving everything a “facelift,” rather than completely redoing the design, will greatly reduce the complexity of the work and lower total labor costs.

5. Consider Gradual Upgrades

Even with the previously mentioned tips in mind, there is no denying that remodeling your entire bathroom can sometimes be more than your budget can handle. But in reality, you don’t need to complete all the remodeling work at once! Many homeowners make the process more affordable by breaking things down into a series of gradual improvements.

For example, you could start by upgrading your shower enclosure. Then next year, you could install a new vanity and bathroom mirror. By spreading the spending out over time, you may even be able to complete all the work without the need for additional financing.

When planning for this type of remodeling work, prioritize the must-have items first. Focus on replacing items that are broken, inefficient, or just plain ugly. Start with the issues that bother you the most. Later, when your budget will allow it, you can then start spending on other bathroom elements that you’d like to upgrade.

By focusing on the necessities first, you can enjoy improved performance right away, while gradually building up to the new style you want to create in your bathroom.

While this gradual remodeling process can be more cost-efficient, you must be careful to resist scope creep. It can become quite tempting to keep making changes to your remodeling plans, or to find another thing you’d like to update. If you’re not careful, you could see your total expenses go far beyond what you had originally planned and find yourself in a state of constant remodeling.

Parting Thoughts

A bathroom remodel can turn a room that you hate into your favorite part of the house. Whether you want to upgrade your shower enclosure or give the entire bathroom a makeover, proper planning will help you make the most of your budget.

Here at Kitchen & Bath Authority, we want you to achieve the look of your dreams without straining your finances. That’s why you’ll find products from top of the line brands like DreamLine and Robern, all at significant discounts off MSRP. With some items available for nearly 50 percent off their standard pricing, you’ll be able to get high-grade updates for deals that you won’t find elsewhere.

We further help you stretch your budget by offering free shipping and additional exclusive discounts to our members. Paired with expedited order processing, this valuable membership will allow you to complete your remodel quickly and on budget.

Whether you plan on enjoying your bathroom for years to come or wish to upgrade your home to improve its resale value, you can get great-looking (and performing) results even when you are on a budget. At Kitchen & Bath Authority, we are proud to help turn your remodeling dreams into reality.

Give Your Bathroom a Boost With the Latest TOTO Washlet!

When discussing ways to improve your bathroom, most homeowners focus on areas like the shower enclosure or the bathroom vanity. While upgrading these features can certainly go a long way in improving the aesthetics and functionality of this area, you can’t overlook one of the most essential fixtures of any bathroom: the toilet.

True, the toilet may not be the most desirable topic of conversation, but there is no denying that it is one of the most frequently used fixtures in the home. With a TOTO Washlet, you can help make your bathroom more luxurious than ever before by giving your toilet a much-needed upgrade.

Whether you are attaching a Washlet to a pre-existing toilet or installing one of TOTO’s toilets that incorporates Washlet+ functionality, the unit’s wide range of features will greatly streamline your bathroom experience.

Here is a closer look at what the Washlet is, and how it can make an impactful difference in your bathroom.

First Things First: Understanding Bidets

The TOTO Washlet is much more than just a toilet seat. It provides the complete functionality of a bidet, as well as several additional luxury features. For many American buyers, however, the idea of a bidet is likely to spark confusion, rather than excitement. Though many misconceptions about bidets continue to exist, they have been gaining popularity in the United States, and for good reason. Here is a closer look at bidets in general.

A traditional bidet is a low oval basin, similar in shape to the toilet. Standard bidets are typically placed next to the toilet. After going to the bathroom, a person would then move to the bidet, which uses water jets to wash the buttocks and genital areas (in lieu of using toilet paper).

As it turns out, using a bidet offers several advantages over using toilet paper. According to Scientific American, roughly 15 million trees are pulped to make toilet paper in the United States each year. In addition to the trees themselves, over 473 billion gallons of water, 253,000 tons of chlorine, and 17.3 terawatts of electricity are used to produce toilet paper. By comparison, the average bidet consumes approximately 1/8th of a gallon of water with each use. Switching to a bidet can have a dramatic positive impact on the environment by conserving precious natural resources.

Toilet paper doesn’t just consume natural resources. When it doesn’t dissolve properly, it can easily contribute to clogs in the sewer system. Using a bidet will eliminate the risk of such clogs. You also won’t have to worry about the recurring expense of buying toilet paper.

Bidets also provide a more effective form of cleaning than toilet paper. In addition to being a less abrasive and more comfortable way to clean, bidets are better equipped to fully remove residue from your skin. This makes bidets especially beneficial for individuals who suffer from conditions that make it painful to use toilet paper, such as hemorrhoids.

While the idea of a bidet may sound unusual to some, it is actually extremely commonplace on a global scale. The bidet is widely used in much of Europe, Asia, and parts of South America. In fact, in countries like Italy and Portugal, bidet installations have been mandatory in newly constructed homes for several decades.

Despite this popularity on a global scale, traditional standalone bidets have never really caught on in the United States. While some have theorized that this stems from anti-French sentiments held by the English which were then transferred to the United States, there are also practical matters to consider.

A standalone bidet is roughly the same size as a toilet. Most bathrooms in the United States simply don’t have the space for an additional fixture of this size. Even larger bathrooms typically don’t have a layout that would easily accommodate the addition of a bidet. When performing a bathroom renovation, a homeowner is much more likely to prioritize additional storage space or a more luxurious shower enclosure than a bidet.

While cultural and practical limitations have kept traditional bidets from catching on in the United States, TOTO has worked to bring bidets stateside in a more accessible manner.

What is TOTO?

Founded in 1917 in Japan, TOTO has become the largest toilet manufacturer in the world. It should come as no surprise, then, that the brand is also one of the respected leaders in the industry, in large part thanks to a continuing drive for innovation and technology integration in the bathroom.

The brand is about much more than producing luxurious, easy to use products. An emphasis on environmental responsibility has resulted in TOTO being named a Water Efficiency Leader by the Environmental Protection Agency. By committing to a high standard of quality that emphasizes water conservation, the brand is actively striving to make the bathroom better suited for today’s eco-conscious world.

How the TOTO Washlet Works

While adding a standalone bidet would require some extensive bathroom renovations, TOTO makes it easy to enjoy the benefits and functionality of a bidet with its Washlet line. These heated toilet seats can be installed directly on top of a standard toilet, providing a wide array of features without the hassle of a typical bidet installation..

TOTO Washlets utilize a specialty water wand that is located below the seat. The nozzle’s settings are operated via remote control, allowing you to choose from an oscillating or pulsating spray, while also selecting the water volume and temperature. The Washlet allows you to set your preferred temperature between 86 and 104 degrees Fahrenheit, providing a warm, soothing wash. Both rear and front cleansing are available.

While keeping the unit clean is a common concern with a standalone bidet, you won’t have to worry about such maintenance with a Washlet. The system utilizes a self-cleaning function that fully sanitizes the bidet nozzle before and after use. The Washlet uses electrolyzed water (also referred to as eWater+) to clean both the nozzle and the toilet bowl. By pre-misting the toilet bowl, the electrolyzed water also ensures more effective elimination of waste. The eWater+ also eliminates bacteria, ensuring that you won’t need to use harsh cleaners as frequently.

After the bidet nozzle has finished its job, the system’s warm-air dryer activates. This hands-free feature offers five different temperature settings for your comfort. Once you’ve found the cleaning settings that you like best, you can actually program them to the Washlet’s memory. Each TOTO Washlet can store personal settings for up to two people.

TOTO Washlets offer much more than bidet functionality. The contoured heated toilet seat also features adjustable temperatures to help you find the perfect comfort settings. A built-in air filtering and purifying system helps deodorize the bathroom, eliminating the need for chemical air fresheners. A night light feature makes it easy to get to the toilet if you need to go in the middle of the night.

While all Washlet models feature a soft-closing lid to prevent accidental slams, models like the TOTO SW3056#01 Washlet S550E also utilize an auto open/close feature for the lid. This sensor detects when you are approaching or leaving the toilet and responds appropriately.

Perhaps best of all, TOTO Washlets are easy to install. The Washlet seats feature a compact, slim design with a docking station that allows for easy installation to your existing toilet. Multiple models are available to match different toilet bowl shapes.

While you will need a 120 VAC outlet located behind the toilet to utilize the Washlet’s features, no other renovations are necessary. TOTO also produces its own line of full-size toilets, many of which integrate the Washlet as part of their design for a more streamlined installation. As a result, it has never been easier to enjoy the functionality of a bidet in your own home.

New Innovations With the Washlet+

While the previously mentioned list of features may seem great in and of itself, the TOTO brand is continuing to innovate and look for new ways to improve its Washlets and toilets. At the beginning of 2019, TOTO added a new auto flush feature to its Washlet+ bidet seats and toilets.

This sensor operated system comes into play as soon as a user stands up and walks away from the toilet. No additional actions are needed to activate the flushing mechanism. Of course, if you still prefer a traditional manual flush, the trip lever or push buttons (depending on the toilet model) can still be used.

Washlet+ integration is available on several toilet models, such as the TOTO MW4463056CEMG#01 Aquia IV Washlet+ Kit and the TOTO MW6243056CEFG#01 Legato Washlet+ Kit. Seamless integration of the Washlet+ further improves aesthetics by concealing the water supply hose and power cord used by the Washlet+ within the base of the toilet.

In addition to the auto flush feature, purchasing one of these toilets gives you access to TOTO’s signature Tornado Flush technology. This system uses two nozzles to create a centrifugal flush that more effectively eliminates waste. These toilets also use CeFiONtect glaze to keep waste particles from sticking to the interior ceramic surface. By only using either 0.8 or 1.28 gallons of water per flush, this system will help you reduce water usage while also keeping your bathroom clean.

With the latest upgrades available from the Washlet+, you will have a more luxurious bathroom experience than ever before. From the use of a bidet to the implementation of an auto flush system, these are the kinds of upgrades that you will soon wonder how you ever lived without.

Parting Thoughts

Whether you want to upgrade your existing toilet with a Washlet+ bidet toilet seat or go for a high-quality TOTO toilet with Washlet+ integration, you can find what you’re looking for here at Kitchen & Bath Authority. With a wide range of TOTO products available, you will have no trouble finding the right fit for your bathroom.

Even more importantly, we’ll help you make these exciting upgrades at a price you can afford. We offer significant discounts off MSRP on all TOTO washlet seats, as well as many of the brand’s luxury toilets. You can save as much as 48 percent on select models!

These low prices are further complemented by our free shipping and financing options. Affordable monthly financing programs allow you to transform your bathroom in a way that fits within your family’s budget.

You can get even more benefits when you sign up for a membership. In addition to exclusive member discounts that allow you to save even more on our already-discounted products, members also enjoy expedited order processing so you can get your shipment even sooner.

The toilet may not be the most glamorous part of the bathroom, but it is still a vitally important part of the overall bathroom experience. By upgrading with a TOTO Washlet+ from Kitchen & Bath Authority, your trips to the bathroom will feel more luxurious and enjoyable than ever before.

6 Essential Factors to Consider For Your Bathroom Remodel

As one of the most-used parts of the home, it’s only natural that you would want your bathroom to provide the perfect blend of style and functionality. Of course, most homeowners don’t have their dream bathroom right from the get-go. For many, a bathroom remodel will be necessary to create the desired environment.

Here at Kitchen & Bath Authority, we understand that each person (and home) is unique. No two bathroom remodels will be exactly alike. However, there is no denying that there are a few key principles that are essential for a successful result with any remodeling project.

By accounting for how you will use your bathroom on a day to day basis, as well as the items that affect the cost and scope of the project, you will be able to achieve an outcome that you love. Here is a closer look at the factors you will need to consider when planning for a bathroom remodel.

1. Set Your Budget

According to HomeAdvisor, it costs an average of $10,369 to remodel a bathroom. There are several factors that can raise or lower this total, including the size of the bathroom, the materials used, and the contractors who are involved in the actual labor.

Because a bathroom remodel is such a big investment, it is essential that you establish a budget before you start shopping around for materials and contractors. Know how much you can afford, including whether you will need to obtain financing for the remodel.

What is most important is ensuring that your remodeling project won’t negatively impact your ability to manage other financial responsibilities. Take a look at your bank account and monthly budget to determine how much you can afford to spend.

If your budget seems tighter than you’d like, don’t worry! We offer significant discounts off MSRP for several bathroom products to help you stretch your budget further. Many homeowners also achieve their desired remodeling outcomes more gradually by performing partial renovations. For example, you could replace your vanity now, and upgrade your shower enclosure at a future date to spread out the costs.

Even if money is tight, it’s always better to pay a little more for a quality product. Bathroom products from reputable manufacturers tend to have better warranty coverage and are less likely to experience defects, helping you save on future repair or replacement costs.

2. Who Will Be Using the Bathroom?

This is one of the most important elements to consider before you start making other remodeling decisions. After all, the way you use the master suite will be significantly different from how a smaller guest bathroom or a child’s bathroom would be used.

For example, when remodeling a bathroom that will be used by your children, it may be beneficial to choose a vanity with a shorter 30 inch countertop height rather than the standard 36 inch height. This will make it easier for your kids to access the faucet for washing hands or brushing their teeth. If your family is taller than average, a vanity like the James Martin 147-114-5236-2CAR Brookfield 48 Inch Antique Black Single Vanity With Drawers With Carrara White Stone Top could be even more useful, thanks to its above-average 43.3 inch height.

If you are planning to age in place, it may also be beneficial to consider features that will improve accessibility and stability. Grab bars and non-slip flooring may not seem like a big deal, but they can make all the difference in improving bathroom safety for seniors.

If you are remodeling your bathroom to help prepare to sell your home, you should be especially mindful of which features are consistently valued in the market. For example, double sinks are an extremely popular feature in the master bathroom because they conveniently streamline daily use for married couples. Even minor upgrades, like using brushed metal fixtures and faucets, can help give the bathroom a more luxurious appearance that makes it more appealing to potential buyers. However, avoid overly trendy features, which could quickly become dated.

3. Layout Considerations

Your bathroom’s layout will greatly influence what type of products you can purchase for your remodeling project. While it is possible to change the layout of your bathroom, hiring a contractor to knock out a wall will drastically increase your total remodeling costs. Generally speaking, it is much easier (and less expensive) to work within the layout you already have.

Even if expanding the square footage of your bathroom isn’t an option, you can still use the remodeling process to identify current pain points in your bathroom to improve overall ease of use. Evaluate the way you use your bathroom right now. Are there certain areas where space seems tight? Do you and your partner have difficulty using the room when you are both in it at the same time?

It can be helpful to consult with a contractor to better determine how to solve these issues. Many of these problems result from surprisingly simple things. A vanity that is too wide may cause open doors to bump into an adjacent wall or toilet. Sometimes, the bathroom is actually the perfect size, but fixtures are simply in a bad location. Keep in mind that moving the location of bathroom fixtures will typically require changes to the bathroom’s plumbing and electrical work, which will raise remodeling costs.

Take measurements of your bathroom and its current features so you can better understand how the space is currently used. It may be helpful to draw a rough plan of your bathroom using graph paper. This will make it easier to consult with a contractor to determine how you can make better use of your space.

Even if you don’t have significant issues with your bathroom layout, these measurements are still important when planning for a remodel. Selecting a replacement vanity or shower enclosure that has the same dimensions as what you currently use will ensure that the new feature doesn’t create problems for your floorspace.

4. Pick Your Focus

Many homeowners don’t have any issues with using their bathroom as-is — they just want it to look better. While this certainly makes remodeling easier, choosing the right look for your upgraded bathroom will still require a fair amount of work.

It’s generally best to start by picking one fixture that will serve as your bathroom’s focal point. There’s really no limit as far as which item could serve as the basis for the rest of the design. Whether you want to start with a tub like the Streamline N-801-59FSBL-FM 59 Inch Soaking Freestanding Tub In Glossy Black With Tray And Internal Chrome Drain or a vanity like the Chans Furniture CF-2873W-AW Fiesta 32 Inch Antique White Bathroom Sink Vanity, the focal piece will help you set the tone for the entire room.

After you’ve selected your focal design element, you should then select the rest of your bathroom items. This will make it easier to match the style and color of all pieces within the bathroom, resulting in a stylish, cohesive look. While mixing and matching styles may seem fun, this can result in a cluttered and unorganized appearance. When possible, selecting products from the same manufacturer or product line will make it easier to get the best look for your bathroom.

This same guideline should also influence your selection of colors and materials for flooring and walls. Choose a light or neutral color that will match the rest of the fixtures. It’s best to choose floor and wall colors last, as it is often easier to match them to your bathroom fixtures than the other way around.

5. Functionality Matters

Your upgraded bathroom shouldn’t just look good — it should also deliver the performance you need for a streamlined daily routine. Quite often, seemingly small features will make a bigger difference than you might expect.

For example, you can reduce your impact on the environment (and your utility bills) by purchasing products that reduce household water usage. A toilet like the Toto MS446124CEMG#01 Aqua IV Two Piece Elongated 1.28/0.8 GPF Dual Flush Skirted Toilet With SS124 Seat and CeFIONtect will help you save water with each flush. Shower heads like the Hansgrohe 26217001 Croma 280 1-Jet 11 Inch Showerhead use as little as 1.8 gallons of water per minute.

Reducing water consumption isn’t the only way that you can improve bathroom functionality as part of your upgrade. Medicine cabinets in the Robern Uplift Tech line offer distinctive features like a defogger, night light, and electric outlets. You could even get a towel warmer to keep towels dry and cozy.

While these extra features can greatly improve your bathroom routine, you should never overlook the importance of basic performance. Look for bathroom products from quality manufacturers with good reviews and warranty coverage. ETL/UL certification ensures that products meet safety and quality standards, while ASTM and other design standards ensure that the products and materials can perform well in a high-humidity bathroom environment.

6. Don’t Forget Commonly Overlooked Design Elements

While new fixtures may get most of the attention during a bathroom remodel, they aren’t the only thing that will affect the final look of the project. Being aware of a few extra details will have a bigger impact than you might think.

Lighting: Better lighting doesn’t just make it easier to see what you’re doing. It also helps the room feel larger and more inviting. Consider upgrading your bathroom’s ambient lighting fixture or installing a medicine cabinet with task lighting to increase brightness. Glass shower doors can also help reflect light and make the room feel larger, even if you don’t have a natural light source.

Storage: While a large bathroom vanity can provide ample storage space, it doesn’t always have room for all your extra linens and toiletries. If you don’t have a linen closet readily available, you may wish to consider an extra storage installation for your bathroom. Wall shelving can be a great way to use your vertical space.

Ventilation: Never underestimate the importance of bathroom ventilation. A ventilating fan will provide air circulation to prevent mold and mildew growth in this moist, humid environment. Remodeling presents a good opportunity to double check that your current ventilation fan provides the right amount of airflow for your needs.

Bonus Tip: Preparing For the Remodeling Process

While planning out how you will upgrade your bathroom can be a lot of fun, remodeling itself is a lot of work. If you don’t want to go through the work of installing everything yourself, you will need to hire contractors to perform the work.

Depending on the scope of the work, a full renovation can take several weeks, even when using professional contractors. You will need to remove old fixtures, possibly demolish certain elements, complete plumbing and electrical work, install new flooring, paint the walls, and install fixtures. During this time, the bathroom will be inaccessible.

As such, family members will need to use other bathrooms in the house, which can cause crowding and “traffic jams” as everyone tries to get ready. To avoid such problems, you may need to create a schedule for who will use the bathroom at what times to keep everyone organized.

Planning ahead for how a bathroom remodel will temporarily alter your daily routine will ensure that your household continues to run smoothly while the work is going on.

Parting Thoughts

Bathroom remodeling is a highly involved process, but it can also be one of the most rewarding changes you make to your house. Even something as simple as a new vanity can improve the way you use your bathroom each day. Extensive remodels can also greatly increase your home value by making your property more appealing to potential buyers.

No matter why you wish to remodel your bathroom, you can count on Kitchen & Bath Authority to help you achieve a new look at a price you can afford. We offer significantly discounted prices on a wide range of bathroom products, ranging from sinks and toilets to vanities and shower enclosures.

With a vast selection of products from top brands like Robern, DreamLine, and more, you will have no trouble finding the pieces that are the right aesthetic match for your home. Best of all, with our exclusive membership program, you can gain access to additional promotional discounts, free shipping, and other benefits.

Your dream bathroom is closer than you think — and at a lower price tag than you might expect! Check out our high-quality bathroom products today to start transforming your home.