Are you in the midst of bathroom renovations or simply looking to upgrade your toilet? Choosing the right toilet involves more than just picking a design that matches your aesthetic preferences. At UK Bathrooms we understand that the decision-making process can be overwhelming, so we’ve put together a comprehensive 10 step checklist to guide you through the crucial considerations when buying a toilet.

Duravit D-Neo Wall Hung Toilet

1. Installation Style

Wall-Hung or Floor-Mounted: Determine whether a sleek wall-hung toilet or a traditional floor-mounted one suits your bathroom’s aesthetics and structural possibilities.

Amara Helmsley Rimless Open Back Close Coupled Toilet

2. Outlet Configuration

Vertical or Horizontal: Consider the outlet direction that aligns with your plumbing setup for optimal functionality. Almost all toilets have a horizontal drain pipe these days but it is always best to double check to avoid unnecessary plumbing costs.

Amara Skipton Back to Wall Toilet

3. Water Efficiency

The lower the gallons per flush rating the less water will be consumed, and don’t be fooled even the slightest difference can make a huge saving to the amount of water used. Look for a toilet that uses least amount of water but produces a powerful flush.

Villeroy & Boch Architectura Compact Round Wall Hung WC

4. Height Options

Classic, Comfort-Height, or Short: Tailor the height of your toilet to your comfort level and the needs of your household.

Geberit Selnova Square Short Projection Wall Hung Toilet

5. Additional Features

Shower Function (Shower Toilet): Explore the luxury of a toilet with a built-in shower function for added convenience.

Geberit AquaClean Mera Classic Shower Toilet

6. Rim Options

With or Without Flushing Rim: Decide whether you prefer a toilet with or without a flushing rim for easier cleaning. Rimless toilets host less bacteria and are easier to keep clean.

Duravit ME by Starck Rimless Wall Hung Toilet

7. Shape

D-Shaped, Square, or Round: Choose a toilet shape that complements your bathroom design and personal taste. Many of our customers buy matching sanitaryware so that colour and shape co-ordinate.

Imperial Oxford Low Level WC

8. Colour and Finish

Black, White or Coloured; Matt or Gloss: Personalize your space by selecting the perfect colour and finish that suits your overall bathroom theme.

Villeroy & Boch Antao Wall Hung WC

9. Toilet Seat Features

Soft-Close Lid: Opt for a toilet seat with a soft-close lid for a quieter and safer usage experience.

Tissino Velino Rimless Short Projection Wall Hung WC

10. Accessibility

If you need to make your toilet more accessible for you or a family member with changing needs, consider a taller toiler for ease of use, add grab bars to left or right if toilet if possible and think about the flushing mechanism, a lever mechanism on the front may be better or a push button on the top depending on needs.

Harrogate Collection High Level Toilet

Once you’ve thoughtfully answered these questions, you’ll be well on your way to finding the ideal toilet for your bathroom. At UK Bathrooms, we pride ourselves on offering the best selection of bathroom ceramics and accessories to make your toilet-buying experience seamless.

Explore our range to discover top-quality options that blend style, functionality, and durability. Your dream bathroom is just a toilet away!

When it comes to turning your bathroom into a modern masterpiece, Amara Designs from UK Bathrooms is your ultimate companion. With an array of high-quality, design-led products, Amara allows you to craft a bathroom that reflects your unique taste and style. At UK Bathrooms, we are proud to showcase Amara’s exceptional range, designed to elevate your bathroom experience to new heights. From luxurious freestanding baths to sleek matt black fixtures and on-trend accessories, we’ll guide you through the process of creating your dream contemporary bathroom.

Amara Malton Grid Wetroom Screen in Matt Black

Amara Malton Grid Walk In Shower Enclosure in Matt Black

Let’s start with the cornerstone of your modern bathroom – the shower. Amara’s Malton Grid Wetroom Screen is not just a functional necessity; it is a statement piece! Crafted with precision, this 8mm thick wetroom screen is both stylish and efficient. Its black-framed glass design is not only visually stunning but also treated with Aqua Shield, making it easy to clean and resistant to water stains and limescale buildup. With this screen, you’ll create a luxurious and efficient showering space that’s bound to impress.

Amara Coxwold Acrylic Freestanding Bath

Amara Coxwold Acrylic Freestanding Bath

Imagine sinking into a bath that exudes elegance and comfort. Amara’s Coxwold Acrylic Freestanding Bath offers just that. This luxurious centrepiece brings a touch of opulence to your bathroom. Its timeless design and premium craftsmanship make it the perfect addition to your contemporary oasis, inviting you to indulge in relaxation.

Amara Runswick Round Rigid Riser Shower Kit in Matt Black

Amara Round Rigid Riser Shower Kit

Complement your shower space with the Amara Runswick Round Rigid Riser Shower Kit. With its matt black finish, this shower kit not only adds a contemporary touch but also offers practicality. Featuring a round handset, overhead shower, and an exposed valve, it combines modern design with functionality, delivering a spa-like shower experience in the comfort of your home.

Amara Bainbridge 600mm Round LED Mirror with Demister Pad in Matt Black

Amara Bainbridge LED MIrror

Lighting plays a crucial role in bathroom design, and Amara understands this perfectly. The Bainbridge Round LED Mirror not only enhances the contemporary aesthetics of your bathroom but also provides practicality. With a demister pad and matt black metal frame, it adds sophistication and functionality to your space.

Amara Huby Vanity Unit with Black Washstand

Amara Huby Vanity Unit with black washstand

Storage and vanity solutions are essential elements in any bathroom. Amara’s Huby Vanity Unit and Basin offer flexibility and style. With options in 600mm and 800mm widths, you can choose the perfect fit for your space. Customizable with a choice of basin colour and handles, it also comes with a convenient shelf option, adding to its practicality.

Amara Runswick Mono Basin Mixer Tap in Matt Black

Amara Runswick Black Mono Basin Mixer Tap

Small details can make a big difference in your bathroom’s overall aesthetics. The Amara Runswick Mono Basin Mixer Tap in matt black brings a sleek, modern touch to your basin area. Its elegant design elevates the style quotient of your bathroom, ensuring every detail is in harmony.

Amara Bainbridge Rimless Wall-Hung Toilet Pan and Seat

For hygiene-conscious homeowners, Amara offers the Bainbridge Rimless Wall-Hung Toilet Pan and Seat. Its rimless technology makes it more hygienic than traditional toilet pans. The stunning gloss white finish adds a touch of luxury to your bathroom, creating a pristine and welcoming atmosphere.

Don’t Forget the Finishing Touches

To achieve a coordinated look in your contemporary bathroom, consider the Amara Hawes Accessories collection in matt black. From wall-mounted toilet brush sets to towel bars, soap dishes, tumbler holders, and robe hooks, these on-trend accessories add the perfect finishing touches to your space. With options that blend seamlessly with your chosen colour scheme, you can achieve a cohesive and stylish look effortlessly.

Incorporating Wood for Warmth

To soften and add warmth to your modern bathroom, consider incorporating wood elements. Whether it’s wood-effect floor tiles, wooden vanity unit or the addition of a wooden stool and bath tidy, these touches bring a sense of nature and balance to your contemporary oasis.

With Amara Designs available at UK Bathrooms, you have the opportunity to create a contemporary bathroom that perfectly suits your taste and lifestyle. Every element is crafted to the highest standards, ensuring durability and style. By choosing Amara, you’re not just selecting products; you’re making a careful choice for a bathroom that stands out in both form and function.

Ready to transform your bathroom into a modern sanctuary? Explore Amara Designs at UK Bathrooms and bring your dream bathroom to life.

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Achieving that perfect ‘Insta-worthy’ bathroom is a universal desire, but in a world flooded with 1.5 million #bathroominspo hashtags, it can be overwhelming to narrow down the best trends. We’re here to guide you toward crafting an Instagram-approved bathroom that incorporates the hottest trends on the platform.

We’ve gone the extra mile by meticulously analysing hashtag data and delving into countless Instagram trends to curate a selection of the most popular and captivating features. These elements will not only elevate your bathroom’s aesthetics but also help it go viral on social media.

Get ready to transform your bathroom into a space that is bound to captivate and inspire Instagram users worldwide!

Here are eight of the most popular bathroom trend hashtags currently on Instagram:

1. #vanity 2.7m posts
2. #porcelaintiles 305k posts
3. #washbasin 225k posts
4. #freestandingbaths 110k posts
5. #bathroommirror 101k posts
6. #blacktap 70.2k posts
7. #whitebathroom 100k posts
8. #bathroomcabinet 53.3k posts

Vanity

Amara Bedlam Vanity Unit with brass shelf

Adequate storage is always a must, particularly in bustling family households. Ensuring your bathroom offers ample concealed storage options is essential. A stylish and understated bathroom vanity unit provides ample storage for your toiletries.

This vanity not only fosters a contemporary bathroom appearance but also opens-up opportunities to infuse the space with character and charm. Consider adding eclectic touches like whimsical vases, candle holders, and sizable floating mirrors to truly elevate its Instagram-worthy allure. With over 2.7m posts made using #vanity this is our number 1 hashtag!

Porcelain Tiles

Porcelain tiles are a type of ceramic tile that is made from fine porcelain clay and fired at very high temperatures. They are known for their durability, low water absorption, and versatility in design. When used effectively in a bathroom, porcelain tiles can contribute to creating an Instagram-worthy space with over 305k posts using #porcelaintiles.

Porcelain tiles come in a wide range of styles, colours, and patterns. Options can include marble-look, wood-look, geometric patterns, or solid colours, depending on your design preferences.

Washbasin

Amara Staithes Round Marble Countertop Washbasin

In 2023, washbasin trends are leaning towards a harmonious blend of functionality and aesthetics, making your bathroom truly Instagram-worthy. These stylish fixtures have evolved into focal points of bathroom design with over 225k Instagram posts using #washbasin. Contemporary washbasins come in an array of shapes, sizes, and materials, allowing homeowners to personalize their spaces with flair. Organic and nature-inspired designs, such as stone or wooden washbasins, are gaining popularity, bringing a touch of the outdoors indoors. Additionally, minimalist, wall-mounted washbasins create a clean and open look, perfect for modern bathroom aesthetics. Ultimately, integrating a fashionable and eye-catching washbasin into your bathroom design can transform the space into an Instagram-worthy sanctuary.

Freestanding Bath

Freestanding baths have emerged as an essential addition to contemporary bathrooms. Think of them as not just functional fixtures but as striking statement pieces. Placement plays a pivotal role in optimizing their impact. When positioned by a window, these freestanding baths create an illusion of space while placing the bath slightly off-centre in the room lends a touch of luxurious hotel-inspired aesthetics. With an impressive 94.8k Instagram posts sporting the #freestandingbath tag, it’s evident that these tubs reign supreme in current design trends. Their timeless elegance seamlessly enhances the allure of nearly any bathroom interior style.

 Bathroom Mirror

Amara Bedlam Illuminated Round Bathroom Mirror

Bathroom mirrors are not just functional necessities but also powerful tools for elevating the Instagram-worthiness of your bathroom. These reflective surfaces serve as more than just practical items; they’re integral design elements. Large, well-placed mirrors can create an illusion of space, making even compact bathrooms feel open and inviting. Choose mirrors with unique frames or shapes to add a touch of personality and visual intrigue. Properly positioned, mirrors can also capture and enhance natural light, adding brightness to the space and making it more photogenic. Whether it’s a minimalist, frameless mirror or an ornate, vintage-style piece, the right mirror can transform your bathroom into a visually captivating setting, ready for that Instagram snapshot.

Black Tap

VitrA Origin Matt Black Basin Mixer Tap

 The black tap trend in bathrooms has taken the design world by storm, and it’s no surprise that it has gained significant attention on Instagram with over 70.2k posts tagged under #blacktap. These sleek and sophisticated fixtures are redefining bathroom aesthetics, bringing a touch of modern elegance and bold contrast to any space. Black taps offer a striking contrast against light or neutral backgrounds, making them the focal point of the bathroom. Their versatility allows them to seamlessly blend into various design styles, from contemporary to industrial to minimalist. The use of black taps adds a sense of drama and sophistication, creating a captivating visual impact that resonates with design enthusiasts and Instagram users alike. Hence the growing popularity of this trend on the platform.

 White Bathroom

White bathrooms have surged in popularity in 2023, and it’s evident from the astounding 100k+ posts under the hashtag #whitebathroom on Instagram. The enduring appeal of white lies in its timeless, clean, and airy aesthetic. It provides a canvas for endless design possibilities, from classic and traditional to sleek and modern. White bathrooms evoke a sense of tranquility and spa-like serenity, making them perfect retreats from the hustle and bustle of daily life. White surfaces, whether in tiles, fixtures, or accessories, amplify natural light, making spaces feel larger and more inviting. This trend also aligns with the growing preference for minimalism and simplicity in interior design, where the purity of white fosters a sense of calm and clarity.

Bathroom Cabinet

Origins Darran Mirror Cabinet

Bathroom Cabinets have become indispensable elements in contemporary bathroom design, and their importance is clearly reflected in the trending hashtag #bathroomcabinet on Instagram. These versatile storage solutions not only declutter your space but also elevate the overall aesthetics of your bathroom. The popularity of bathroom cabinets lies in their functionality, offering a dedicated place to hide everything from make-up to medicines while maintaining a clean and organized look. Styles and trends in bathroom cabinets vary, from sleek and minimalist designs to traditional.

So there it is – our top selection of trending bathroom hashtags.

Get posting!

Embracing the timeless charm of Scandinavian design while staying on-trend, the “Nordic Notes” contemporary bathroom encapsulates the essence of modern simplicity and functional elegance. Drawing inspiration from the serene landscapes and minimalistic aesthetics of the Nordic regions, this bathroom design seamlessly combines Amara brand products to create a tranquil retreat that exudes warmth and sophistication.

Colour Palette

Stay true to the Scandi style with a light and neutral colour palette. Choose shades of white, soft greys, and muted earthy tones. The use of natural wood accents adds a touch of warmth to the space.

Amara Huby Vanity Unit with Black Frame

Flooring and Wall Finishes

Opt for light-coloured, wide-plank wooden flooring to evoke a sense of natural beauty. For the walls, consider a combination of white painted surfaces and a single accent wall featuring a wood-textured wallpaper with a subtle grain pattern.

Vanity and Basin

Select a wall-mounted vanity with clean lines and a matte white finish. The Amara brand offers vanities with minimalistic designs that fit perfectly within the Scandinavian aesthetic. Pair it with a rectangular ceramic sink that seamlessly integrates with the vanity’s design.

Amara Malton Grid Wetroom Screen with Deflector Panel in Matt Black

Taps and Fixtures

Choose matte black or brushed brass taps and fixtures to introduce a contemporary edge to the space. These finishes create a stunning contrast against the neutral backdrop.

Amara Runswick Wall Mounted Basin Mixer Tap

Mirror and Lighting

Hang a round mirror with a thin metal frame above the vanity. Opt for soft LED lighting fixtures to create a warm and inviting ambiance while maintaining energy efficiency.

Amara Bedlam Ruund Illuminated Mirror in Brushed Brass

Shower Area

Design a walk-in shower with frameless glass panels to maintain an open and airy feel. Incorporate large-format, matte-finish tiles in a pale grey hue for a cohesive look. Install a rainfall showerhead for a spa-like experience.

Bathtub

Introduce a freestanding bathtub with sleek, clean lines. A white tub against the wood-textured accent wall creates a stunning focal point. Complete the bathtub area with a wooden bath caddy and a minimalist stool.

Amara Coxwold Acrylic Freestanding White Bath

Storage and Accessories

Maximize functionality with wall-mounted open shelves in natural wood finishes. Arrange woven baskets and glass jars to store toiletries while adding a touch of rustic charm. Minimalistic accessories, such as a wooden toothbrush holder and soap dispenser, keep the clutter at bay.

Textiles and Plants

Enhance the cosy atmosphere with soft, plush towels in shades of grey and white. Introduce texture with a fluffy bath mat and a woven laundry basket. Incorporate potted plants like snake plants or aloe vera to infuse a hint of greenery and promote a sense of well-being.

Amara Aysgarth 1 drawer Fluted Door Unit

Final Touches

Complete the Scandinavian look with small decorative items, like ceramic vases and minimalist artwork. Keep window treatments light and sheer to allow ample natural light to filter through.

Nordic Notes is a contemporary bathroom design that celebrates the beauty of simplicity, the warmth of wood, and the elegance of clean lines. It’s a harmonious blend of functionality and aesthetics, creating a space that resonates with the calming and rejuvenating essence of Scandinavian design.

Welcome to the future of personal indulgence and convenience – the realm of smart bathrooms at ukbathrooms.com. In an era where technology seamlessly integrates into every facet of our lives, it’s no surprise that our sacred retreats of relaxation and rejuvenation have undergone a remarkable transformation. From toilets that know your preferences better than you do, to showers that set the perfect water temperature before you even step in and taps that dispense water with digital precision. The modern bathroom has evolved into a haven of intelligent automation.

Join us on a journey through the realm of smart bathrooms. We’ll explore the cutting-edge innovations of ceiling speakers that serenade your senses and fixtures that bring a touch of futuristic elegance to your daily routines. Get ready to immerse yourself in the possibilities that await as we delve into the technologies that are redefining personal care and comfort.

Digital Shower Mixers

Digital shower mixers have evolved significantly over the last few years. These innovative devices offer precise control over water temperature and flow, all managed through a sleek digital interface. This not only ensures a comfortable shower experience but also helps conserve water by allowing you to set and maintain your preferred settings.

Grohe Euphoria Smartcontrol Mono 260 Shower System

Grohe Euphoria Smartcontrol Mono 260 Shower System

The German crafted Grohe Euphoria Smartcontrol Mono 260 is a high-quality shower system that is controlled with just a touch. If you enjoy showering then the Grohe Euphoria SmartControl 260 Shower system is the perfect addition to your bathroom space and is designed to offer accurate control and comfort. It also offers a multitude of enjoyable innovative functions to suit all the family. The pioneering Smartcontrol technology allows you to switch between and combine both the overhead and hand shower at the touch of a button. Ecojoy allows you to conserve both energy and water.

The impressive 260mm showerhead comes with 3 differing spray patterns to invigorate and revitalise you during your showering experience. To select the desired spray pattern it requires a simple turn of the centralised button on the spray head. The hand shower also comes with Rain and SmartRain spray patterns. The Grohe TurboStat technology guarantees a constant water temperature during your shower. Enjoy a luxurious shower in style.

Remote Control Sensors for Showers and Baths:

Safety is paramount in any bathroom, and remote control sensors have become indispensable tools. Imagine a sensor that detects when your bath is close to overflowing and automatically stops the water flow, preventing potential water damage. These sensors offer peace of mind and convenience, particularly for busy households where distractions are common.

Aqualisa Rise Digital Remote Control

Aqualisa Rise Digital Remote Control

The Aqualisa Rise Digital Remote Control turns a typical shower into a dream bathroom with luxurious features. With this device, bathers can start their showers from up to 10 metres away. This makes it easy for anyone to fill a tub or let a shower warm while getting ready to bathe. It even has an LED display that lets the bather know when the shower is ready. By holding the button down, users can switch between shower heads and bath faucets. Installing the Aqualisa Rise Digital Remote Control is simple, but it requires a slim data cable that lets the device communicate with your shower or bath faucet.

Concealed Audio Systems and Speakers

For those who enjoy an immersive bathroom experience, concealed audio systems and speakers are a game-changer. With these discreetly integrated systems, you can create a soothing ambiance with your favourite music or podcasts, enhancing relaxation during bath time or setting the tone for your morning routine.

Aquavision Single Stereo Water Resistant Ceiling Speaker

Aquavision Single Stereo Water Resistant Ceiling Speaker

Introducing the Aquavision Single Stereo Water Resistant Ceiling Speaker. The perfect solution for when design constraints only allow for a single speaker! Imagine having lush, powerful stereo sound in an ultra-compact package – that’s the power of this miraculous piece of technology. It delivers both left and right stereo channels from one point, with amazing channel separation – no more sacrificing quality for space! And don’t worry about bathroom moisture ruining your listening experience: it has water resistance too, so you can keep listening to your TV even when you’re showering.

Origins Windsor 2 Tunable LED Mirror in White

Origins Windsor 2 Tunable LED Mirror in White

Opulence, comfort, and class; with the Origins Windsor 2 LED Mirror, your bathroom gets a tastefully lit area. It creates nice lighting to help you get a clear view, especially while you are dressing up for an important occasion. The white LED mirror is tunable and enables you to switch between warm white, cool white, and natural white to suit your style. This light can also be dimmed to create a soothing and romantic ambiance.

The mirror has an integrated demister pad to prevent fog and it automatically shuts down after 30 minutes. It also has an illuminated diffused border to create uniform lighting without any dark spots.

Origin’s Windsor 2 light has a dual-channel Bluetooth speaker that connects to your smartphone and lets you stream your favourite music without interruptions.

Origins Kinetic Wireless Receiver

Clever Lighting Systems

The right lighting can transform any space, and smart bathrooms are no exception. Clever lighting systems allow you to adjust the brightness and colour of your bathroom lights to match your mood or activity. From energizing cool tones to calming warm hues, these systems contribute to a personalized and inviting atmosphere.

Origins Kinetic Wireless Receiver

Gain maximum control over the bathroom and living room lights with the Origins Kinetic Wireless Receiver. This easy-to-use receiver is compatible with every 240V LED lighting and ensures continuous performance for hours. The receiver covers a range of up to 25 m indoors and up to 80 m outdoor, giving you the comfort of controlling every light without getting up.

The Origins kinetic receiver has a maximum load capacity of 200W, giving you the flexibility to control LED downlights, pendant lights, extractor fans, and more. It can also be used to dim the lights via the built-in dimmer. You have to just hold the switch down to activate the dimmer.

This kinetic receiver is an energy-saving addition to your bathroom, kitchen, and living room. It uses quite a low amount of energy and adheres to the low power consumption requirements. This makes the switch an environmentally-friendly choice for every home and commercial space.

Vado i-tech Life Infra Red Basin Mixer Tap

Digital Taps

Digital taps have gained traction, especially among families with diverse needs. For households with young children or the elderly, these taps offer precise control over water temperature and flow, reducing the risk of scalding accidents. Additionally, features like touchless operation promote hygiene and ease of use for all ages.

Vado i-tech Life Infra Red Basin Mixer Tap 

Taking the obvious benefits of touchless, infra-red technology, Vado re-imagine it into a sculpted motif of contemporary living. Cast into an elegantly simple form, the Vado Life i-tech Infra Red Basin Mixer is a stunning example of design brilliance. Operate with a simple wave of the hand, the infra-red sensor activates the water flow, eliminating the need for physical contact for a clean and hygienic bathroom wash area. Operated via mains power with AA battery power backup, it has plenty of options for installation. A chrome finish ensures its sleek appearance can be easily cleaned with a simple wipe down.

Geberit Aquaclean Mera Classic Shower Toilet

Smart WCs

Smart WCs, with their advanced features like heated seats, bidet functions, and automatic lid opening and closing, have gained popularity for their enhanced comfort and hygiene. These technologically advanced fixtures redefine the bathroom experience for the better.

As we conclude our exploration of the captivating world of smart bathrooms, it’s important to acknowledge that this landscape is as dynamic as the ever-flowing water within it. The innovations we’ve delved into are just a snapshot of the constantly evolving smart technologies that are reshaping our daily rituals. From smart toilets that adapt to our preferences to showers that sync with our moods, and taps that conserve water with finesse, the possibilities seem boundless.

As we gaze into the horizon of bathroom innovation, it’s evident that new technologies will continue to emerge. These technologies will surprise us with their ingenuity and redefine the standards of convenience, luxury, and sustainability. Whether you’re an early adopter revelling in the latest advancements or a curious enthusiast anticipating the next wave of transformation. The journey through the realm of smart bathrooms is one that promises to remain endlessly fascinating. Offering ever-new ways to elevate our personal sanctuaries to unprecedented heights.

What should my new bath be made of? Acrylic or Steel?

We often get asked what is the best material for a bath to be made of. Here we look at the two main types of material for a bathtub, Acrylic and Steel. This will hopefully help you decide which is the best choice for you.

The bathroom industry has moved on in leaps and bounds when it comes to the old bath in front of the stove every Sunday! Nowadays there is a plethora of baths available, from luxury freestanding baths to whirlpool tubs.  But choosing which one is right for you and your family isn’t so easy. You need to consider the style of bathtub, the design and the size as well as the material the tub is made from.

So what materials are baths made from?

Most contemporary baths are made from one of just two main materials:

• Acrylic which is a synthetic plastic material
• Steel which is a hardwearing metal alloy

However, in your search for a new bath you can also find baths made from cast iron, stone, tin, copper and nickel.  Before making your choice, let’s have a look at the two most popular baths acrylic and steel.

What are the benefits of an acrylic bath?

Cheaper

Acrylic baths are the number one choice in the modern bathroom. They cost less than a steel bath to manufacture so they are cheaper than a steel bath.

Strong and durable

An acrylic bath is just as strong as a steel bath, usually being reinforced with glass fibre. No longer do acrylic baths suffer from flexibility, modern manufacturing methods resolved this some time ago. If you want a bath that is strong and durable at a budget price then an acrylic bath is the right choice for you.  The material is also highly resistant to staining and scratches so it’s a great option for a busy family bathroom.

Feels warm

One added benefit which you may not think of is that an acrylic bath feels so much warmer to the touch than a steel bath.

What are the benefits of a bath made from steel?

Whilst not as popular as the acrylic bath, steel baths are our next best seller and benefit from a number of key points.

Retain warmth

So, a steel bath may not be a warm to touch as an acrylic bath but it will retain heat for longer. Great if you like a very long soak in the bath.

Designer look

Steel is a more traditional material and can add that designer look you may long for. They also feel more solid because of the nature of the material. There are some gorgeous baths made from steel with clean lines and stylish appearance.

Coated in enamel

To achieve a crisp white finish a steel bath is coated with enamel. While this gives your new steel bath a great aesthetic the bath may chip or scratch a little more easily, this just means you have to be a little more careful. With care a steel bath will last for years.

Green credentials

Steel can be recycled, so when the time comes for you to replace your steel bath you can still do your bit to save the planet.

Let’s recap…

Acrylic baths

• Cheaper, lower priced
• Hardwearing and resistant to stains and scratches
• Warm to touch
• Great choice in sizes and shapes
• Brilliant for families and everyday use

Steel baths

• Great designer options
• Good for careful owners
• Strong solid construction
• Bright white enamel coating
• Retains heat

Some further questions and answers

Are metal baths better than acrylic?

Both options have advantages and the choice is down to your own personal requirements.  For example: if you have a family and the bath is going to be used by everyone every day then acrylic will not scratch or stain as much as a steel bath.

What is the best material for a bath?

Acrylic is the most popular material for a bath because of its hardwearing properties and because it is usually at a lower price than a steel bath. However again this is down to your personal choice and your lifestyle, a steel bath may offer a more stylish look to complement your bathroom.

Will an acrylic bath stain or go yellow?

A good quality acrylic bathtub will not stain or go yellow, they are also resistant to scratches so ideal to use daily.

Which bath is easier to care for and maintain?

Acrylic is a tougher material and is more resistant to scratches and stains but both steel and acrylic are relatively easy to care for. Regular washing with a non-abrasive cleaner and sponge will keep them in great condition.

Shop baths

You’ll find a great range of quality acrylic and steel baths at UK Bathrooms, baths to suit all budgets and personal requirements.

For standard bath size information check out our blog.

Choosing the best radiator can be somewhat daunting for many of us. UK Bathrooms have put together this little buying guide to help you decide which radiator you need.

We all like to be warm and cosy in our homes, no matter which room or space we spend time in – and one thing that we need to get right is the heating. Room temperature settings are very much a personal choice – according to the World Health Organisation 18 degrees is the comfortable setting for healthy adults! A little cool perhaps for some!

This simple guide looks at the best brands, designs, colours, functions, styles etc so that you can easily find the best radiator for any of the rooms in your home, whatever their size and shape!

There is a plethora of radiators available which as I say can be somewhat daunting but the good news is this massive choice means if you get it right you’ll end up with the best radiator for your home. Consider best type of fuel, location for your new radiator, heat output required for the space, finish and style.

One of the first questions you should ask is where is the radiator going, which room and where inside the room.

Best radiator for your living room

Your living room/lounge is the room where you most want to be warm, cosy and be able to relax and feel comfortable. It may well be one of the rooms where you need a radiator to fit in with your décor and style more. As your living room is usually one of the larger rooms in your house you’ll need to consider BTU Rating of suitable radiators, 5000 or higher being the most favoured. When narrowing down the choice think about your style, traditional or contemporary? Traditional column radiators look amazing in a more traditional setting and vertical flat panels look great in a contemporary styled room. Check out the Zehnder Charleston Horizontal Column Radiator for that more traditional look or the Apollo Milano Horizontal Flat Panel Radiator for a more contemporary style.

Best radiator for your bedroom

A small – medium sized bedroom will need a radiator with a BTU rating of 1000-3000, larger bedrooms will need more. Radiator designs can be matched to your style easily. Opt for a designer radiator from leading brand Bisque. Arteplano is a real eye-catcher and a work of art. Available in a copper or brass finish this ultra-modern minimalist wall hung radiator is available in 3 sizes with a BTU of up to 3548.

Best radiator for your bathroom

Heated towel rails are by far our biggest sellers for bathroom heating.  And again there is a great choice of these available on our website. One of the biggest mistakes people make is to not check the heat output of their towel radiator. Believing this will be good enough to heat the room. Check your BTU rating to make sure the heat output is sufficient. Or include underfloor heating in your bathroom makeover and so only using your heated towel warmer to do what it says on the tin!

What radiator fuel type should I opt for?

When you have decided where your radiator is to be located in your home and what style of radiator you want then you need to think about what is the best radiator fuel type. Central heating radiators use water heated by the central heating system. Electric radiators obviously need an electrical feed and you can also buy dual fuel radiators which use both. Especially useful in the summer months when your central heating may be switched off but still need to dry towels.

Heat output and BTU rating

Usually the bigger the radiator the higher the BTU rating. Meaning that the larger radiators give more heat output. If the BTU rating is high enough to heat the room you can be more flexible on where you actually position your new radiator. As a rule the best place would be in a central location so that heat is more evenly distributed.

What are the best radiator brands?

When it comes to radiator brands then UK Bathrooms offers the best of the best. With leading radiator brands such as Zehnder Bisque, SBH, JIS or Apollo. All are renowned names within the radiator industry. Many of the leading bathroom brands also produce great radiators that can be used in rooms other than the bathroom too. Burlington, Crosswater and Abacus included. UK Bathrooms have our own Essentials range of radiators at great prices.

Best colour for radiators

If you intend for your radiator to be part of your room design and style then the colour and finish is going to be important. Nowadays there is a vast choice in radiator colours. Some brands such as Zehnder offer a personalised colour service where you can match the colour of your radiator perfectly to your colour scheme. Popular with customers are the moment are the coloured radiators in brushed brass, gold, pink and blue finishes.

Buy the best radiator you can afford. It needs to last and to perform as well as look good!

Bathroom mirror cabinets are one of the most popular and best selling bathroom essentials and it is easy to understand why: in a bathroom, sufficient storage and a useful mirror are vital and this component combines these uses. In addition to being practical, they are also design statements in themselves – the mirror draws the eye and they become the focal point of the room.

A good choice of cabinet can really bring a room style and layout together, so it’s important to choose the right one for your needs. There are hundreds of attractive bathroom mirror cabinets available on our site, so here are some points to consider when selecting the perfect choice for your bathroom.

Cabinet size

The size of the cabinet may well be dictated by the dimensions and arrangement of your bathroom, but if you have the space for a larger unit then it is generally never a bad idea to have plenty of storage. This is especially true if it is a family bathroom. If the cabinet is to be wall mounted, ensure that the cabinet is not too wide, or too close to an adjacent wall or shower screen, which could impede the opening of its doors.

Tavistock Detail Mirror Cabinet

Illuminated mirror cabinets

Mirrors reflect light, so a bathroom mirror cabinet will brighten up the room and give the impression of a larger space. But extra electrical light is usually always an essential for a bathroom, so many of our mirrored cabinets also have built in illumination. Indispensable for close up mirror use, such as shaving, make up or any personal grooming, the light can be focused by means of spotlight style downlighters or a more diffuse LED strip type.

Crosswater (Bauhaus) Allure Mirror Cabinet

These need to be installed by a qualified electrician, but having all that incredibly convenient light exactly where it is most needed is certainly worth it. Some units also have useful internal lights and down lights underneath the cabinet which light up the sink area.

Crosswater Allure 500 Mirror Cabinet

Shaver sockets

The average man spends just over an hour a week shaving – a task which is made easier when everything needed is kept together in one place. Illuminated bathroom mirror cabinets require wiring into the mains, so very often have a built in shaver socket for additional functionality. Crosswater and VitrA both have a good choice of modern stylish illuminated bathroom mirror cabinets with shaver sockets.

Crosswater Allure 500 Mirror Cabinet

Anti-mist mirror cabinets

Some bathroom mirror cabinets have an integrated heating component which will clear condensation from the surface of the mirror when needed – yet another helpful feature to make busy mornings easier. We recommend the brand Crosswater for cabinets with this extra function.

Space saving cabinets

There is a range of options to suit all bathrooms if space is tight, such as single slimline cabinets which are reduced in depth as well as width, corner cabinets, ones with sliding doors and inset units, recessed into the wall.

Roper Rhodes Ascension Refine Slimline Split Door Cabinet

A recessed or semi-recessed cabinet can provide adequate internal storage space and wonderful lighting, and yet give a streamlined, contemporary and spacious feel to the bathroom.

Keuco Royal Lumos Recessed Mirror Cabinet

Mirror cabinet design styles

Mirrored bathroom cabinets can be either traditional or contemporary forms, designed to reflect and complement your chosen bathroom style. Some of our recommended quality brands for classical style cabinets are Bayswater, Imperial and Burlington.

Burlington Fitted Furniture 60cm 2 Door Mirror Cabinet

The addition of LED lighting strips enhance the modern look and open up design options, so many cabinets with illumination offer cutting edge shapes. Look out for contemporary features such as frameless doors, curved cabinet corners, LED light inset patterns, dimmer functions and light tone variability.

Vitra Sento Double Door Illuminated Mirror Cabinet

Both vintage and ultra-modern style cabinets can showcase modern colours and materials so they can blend seamlessly with any overall scheme. White is a timeless choice, whereas wood veneers and strong colours are en vogue and many brands offer several different attractive surface finishes. We are also seeing reinvented classical tones becoming highly sought after for cabinets, such as deep navy blues, petrol blues and a range of greys.

Bayswater 1050 Double Door Mirror Cabinet

Burlington Bathrooms are one of UK’s leading brand names for Victorian style bathroom furniture, WC’s, basins and much more! Burlington’s Fitted Furniture collection offers a customisable bathroom furniture suite combination that is suitable for almost any bathroom!

Mix and match wall and floor units to build a combination of units that is ideal for your bathroom needs, pair this with Burlington basins, a Burlington WC and Burlington taps and your entire bathroom suite is compete!

This stunning fitted furniture creates a wide range of combination possibilities, in addition to the choice of units and cupboards there are 4 elegant colour options: Matt white, Grey, Sand or Olive, further broadening the design possibilities of the collection!

Burlington Fitted Furniture from UK Bathrooms

Take the lovely image above for example, this Burlington Fitted Furniture bathroom suite combination can be achieved by combining the following products:

1. Burlington Fitted Furniture 60cm 2 Door Mirror Cabinet
2. Burlington Fitted Furniture 60cm 2 Door Cabinet
3. Burlington Fitted Furniture 30cm 1 Door Wall Unit
4. Burlington Fitted Furniture 60cm Basin Unit
5. Burlington Taps & Mixers
6. Burlington Victorian Semi Recessed Basin
7. Burlington Fitted Furniture Wall Hung WC Unit
8. Burlington Wall Hung Pan
9. Burlington Fitted Furniture 30cm 1 Door Unit
10. Burlington Fitted Furniture Minerva Worktop

Don’t forget your Burlington worktop which comes in lengths of 1200mm, these comes in 3 stocked colours and a wide range of other special finishes that are made to order, simply get in touch with our sales team for more information and a quote, special finishes include Copper fleck, Sparkling white and other innovative finish options.

The Minerva care kit is a great additional purchase as this can be used to buff out any scratches and grazes on the worktop in the future, keeping it looking as good as new. Browse our Burlington Fitted Furniture or contact our team to discuss your new Burlington bathroom suite today!

Tel. 01765 694 720

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Maybe you have already noticed the days are getting a little shorter, and temperature has started to drop. Of course, this means the winter is coming! It’s time to make sure you have your bathroom radiator installed for those cold days. This is a basic guide to help you decide what towel rail would work the best in your bathroom.

Before looking further, here are some questions you should be considered first:

Function:

Towel Warmer

Bauhaus Svelte Towel Warmer

Looking for something just to warm the towels only? Towel warmers only warm towels, it delivers lower output.

Towel Drying Radiator

Bisque Orbit Electric Towel Radiator

For those would like to warm towel and heat up the room.

Type of heating:

Are you going to connect the towel rail to the central heating system or you will just use a heater element?

Central Heating Towel rails

You can simply plumb your new towel rail into your existing central heating system, controlling flow with a pair of existing or new radiator valves. However, you can only use it when the central heating is on.

Electrically heated rails

This is usually suited to flats or high-rise buildings, where the pressure required for central heating may be tricky to achieve – or in the room that only have an electrical spur connection. Such as in a converted loft or an extension.

Dual Fuel 

This allows you to heat the towel rail in the summer months by switching to electrical heat and heat in the colder months by your central heating.

Where is the best location to install my towel rails?

Bauhaus Essence Curved Flat Panel Towel Warmer

Ideally, the towel rails should locate on the coldest wall of the room, as this will ensure the heat is distributed throughout the room effectively. This would normally be the external wall.

Then, you need to consider the space and the shape of your bathroom, where is your existing pipework, and where are your bath and shower going to be located? You’ll want to get out of the shower and the bath, with an easy reach to your warm and cosy towel.

Make sure the towel rail will heat up your bathroom

Every bathroom is different, there are various requirements when it comes to getting them to an optimum temperature. Firstly, working out the usage, what type of bathroom that you are planning to install? A small ensuite, cloakroom or a big family bathroom? Use this calculator to work out what the BTU is (British Thermal Unit) for your room. Then, you can find the towel rail that is effective enough for your room.  You can usually find the towel rail’s BTU in product description or specifications.

Alternatively, calculate the heat requirement of the bathroom in Watts. Check with your heating engineer for the exact requirement. As a rough guide for initial sizing allows 50 Watts per cubic metre of the room. To convert the Watts into BTU/HR multiply 3.412.