Bathroom Blunders vs Bathroom Bliss – 7 Most Annoying Bathroom Problems
Since the time we spend in our bathroom isn’t really just to “hang out”, except maybe for that magical decompressing hot bath, we usually like to get in and out quickly without encountering those bathroom blunders. Here are some simple answers to the 7 most annoying bathroom problems and how to fix them.
1. LOW WATER PRESSURE IN THE SHOWER.
Keeping that shower head working the way it was designed to is usually pretty simple. When you find yourself having to run around in the shower just to get wet usually means there’s limescale build up in the shower head and / or hose. A simple cleaning will usually do the trick. -You’ll need a screwdriver, a pair of pliers, a bucket, and a descaling solution.-Detach the hose (if necessary) and the shower head. Disassemble the shower head (usually a screw in the center). Soak the parts in a bucket of your favorite solution for the recommended time to remove buildup. Be sure to flush out any remaining solution before reassembling.
2. SHOWER OR TUB DRAIN.
We’ve all experienced it at one time or another… the dreaded slow shower drain. Why does the idea of standing in our own dirty water give us nightmares but sitting in bath water is what dreams are made of? (just saying) Anyway, this problem can usually be avoided or solved simply by keeping the drain screen clean. Initially you may have to go “digging for hair” but typically you don’t have to go very far. Remove the drain screen and pull out any visible hair and build up just beneath the screen. Using gloves goes a long way in keeping the “ick” factor to a minimum. Ensuring you have a good drain screen and habitually giving it a quick clean after every use will almost guarantee a problem free drain. Also using an after shower cleaner helps in cutting down soap scum.
3. EMPTY SHAMPOO BOTTLE.
One of the biggest annoying bathroom problems is not knowing you have an empty shampoo, conditioner, or body soap bottle until you go to squeeze some out and only the aroma of what you were hoping for is there. This can be easily remedied by using after-market see through squeeze or pump bottles that are clearly marked to ensure you’re getting what you’re squeezing. This helps in knowing when you’re running low ahead of time and they usually fit in most shower organizers better than the original bottles.
4. TOILET PAPER.
Running out of toilet paper can make you say things that you would never repeat in public but this problem is easily wiped (yes, pun intended). You can find a variety of decorative stands in most housewares stores that are made to dispense and store rolls of tissue. And if you don’t have the floor space or don’t like these items a simple basket on top of the toilet tank can hold a few extra rolls to avoid getting caught with your pants down.
5. TOILET OVERFLOW.
Of course accidentally using a little too much paper may cause your toilet water to run over with excitement. Keep a plunger nearby as that is usually the most effective and quickest way to get things flowing again. But when the plunger attempts only seem to be stirring the pot, so to speak, then a handy snake will surely “snake” out and dislodge the blockage in the trap or drain.
6. A CLOGGED SINK.
Unclogging a sink drain may seem like a job for the professional but a little knowledge and some elbow grease may be just the ticket for this fix. A clogged sink trap is usually the culprit and because it is out of sight it is hard to see it coming. You’ll need access to the drain pipe below the sink. The drain trap is the funny “U” shaped pipe before it disappears into the wall. With a pipe wrench, a bucket, a large bowl, and a brush, the trap can be taken apart rather easily. Make sure you have the bowl beneath the drain pipe to catch any standing water that will come out. Once detached, remove debris from the trap and clean with a bucket of water and a brush. Putting the pipes back together is simple but remember to replace any washers there may be on the pipes.
7. WHERE DID I PUT THE…?
Last but not least is very simply to make your bathroom as organized as possible… even to the point of over doing it will only make your bathroom blunders far and few between. An organized vanity will give you what you need when you need it. A hamper in the bathroom, as long as there’s space, will keep things tidy. Towel hooks can keep His, Hers, and Theirs easily separated. And a wall mounted hand vac can keep the floor clear of dust and hair build up in between regular vacuuming.
About the Author
Kenneth Stefan is a plumbing and draining expert. He is also part of Absolute DP team. Head over to their website to enquire about plumbing services from Absolute Draining & Plumbing.