Efficient Solutions for a More Environmentally Friendly Bathroom

Have you taken a look at your energy bill recently? If you have, it’s most likely encouraging you to make your home run more efficiently. This year reminded us all of the importance of living green. For starters, we’ve seen the positive impact that living sustainably can have on the environment. And, we know the personal benefit of household energy efficiency. After all, it’s safe to say that we’ve all racked up higher energy bills than any other year since we’ve spent more time in our homes, which became our offices, fitness studios and classrooms.

 

The bathroom is a fantastic place to take the first step to a greener home, given the amount of water that is used at every bathroom visit from shower to sink, electricity use in the form of lighting and ventilation and materials that go into creating a comfortable bathroom experience. From master baths to half baths, small changes can make a big impact. Not only will it help save the environment by using less energy, you’ll save more money by using less of your paycheck.

 

Thanks to a growing desire for sustainable alternatives, there are more ways than ever before to make a bathroom more environmentally friendly. But many require time and money that the average person simply doesn’t have. Installing an eco-friendly toilet or a reclaimed wood vanity sounds nice but it isn’t the easiest change to make. The good news? You don’t need to call in the professionals to make a conscious change. Today, we rank our top three ways to make an efficient, sustainable upgrade to your bathroom.

Kick off your energy-efficient upgrade with one you might have already made in other rooms in your home: replace your lightbulbs with LED alternatives. Not only will you save on your energy bill, but you’ll also save on time spent purchasing replacement bulbs. LED bulbs last 25 times longer than classic bulbs. Many assume that only standard bulbs come in LED form, but there are plenty of options that will suit your current light fixture – or give you an excuse to install a new one.

One way to make an ongoing impact with every use is with eco-friendly faucets and shower heads. Not all faucets and shower heads are created equal. To be sure you’re using the most water-efficient option, look for Watersense-labeled products. For sink faucets, it’s best if the product has a flow rate of under 1.5 gallons per minute (gpm). As for, shower heads, look for 2.0 gpm.

double sink installation with using copper bathrooms sinks

Our number one solution for an environmentally friendly bathroom is with a new copper sink. You recognize copper for its beauty. You trust its durability. But did you know the best part about copper? It’s the environmentally conscious choice. Copper has been mined for centuries and used for everything from the most basic tools to primitive plumbing systems. Once copper is mined, it can be melted, reforged and reshaped countless times. Our drop-in, undermount and vessel sinks are made to last, even well after it’s replaced. Now, you don’t have to feel guilty about a regular renovation. Technically, you’re just supporting the green movement.

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If you have any additional questions during your search for the perfect copper, fireclay farmhouse sink or granite sink, our Sinkologists are here to help. Contact us or follow us on Facebook, Houzz, Pinterest, or Instagram for more helpful tips and design ideas.

 

The post Efficient Solutions for a More Environmentally Friendly Bathroom appeared first on Sinkology.

source https://www.sinkology.com/blog/environmentally-friendly-bathroom/

Meet Our Current Fireclay Favorites

Fireclay is a kitchen sink material that’s beloved by many homeowners. But when asked which of the Sinkology fireclay kitchens sinks was our favorite, it was hard to choose just one. In fact, we found it exponentially more challenging to choose our top fireclay sink than to actually install one of our top three. These easy-to-install sinks are made for the simplest installation that any DIYer can master. Really, every type of homeowner will appreciate how few modifications need to be made to existing counters and cabinets to fit these sinks in well.

 

Our top three fireclay kitchen sinks feature fireclay’s innate strength and Sinkology’s signature SureFire finish. What makes this so special? Fireclay, for starters, is heated to 2100 degrees Fahrenheit, transforming the natural clay into a scratch- and dent-resistant dense material that’s tough enough to withstand your heaviest pots and pans. This process is only improved further with our exclusive SureFit signature finish. This finish forms an extra-thick protective layer that creates even better durability and lasting shine.

 

Once you see these three sinks, you’ll understand why we want each sink’s beauty to last. The eye-catching crisp white color suits an array of rooms from full kitchens to wet bars is one you’ll want to maintain for years to come.

 

But what is it about these sinks in particular? We thought you’d never ask.

Say hello to the Anna. The Anna Quick-Fit Drop-In Fireclay Farmhouse Kitchen Sink features a compact apron-front design that suits the smallest of living places, even tiny homes. Its efficient size boasts an impressive durability, creating a unique combination that is sure to make an instant impact that lasts for years to come. We love how Anna brings a touch of farmhouse style to spaces where many might not think it to be possible.

Next, meet the small-but-mighty Eden. Like Anna, the Eden Bar and Prep Fireclay Sink packs a punch in smaller spaces like laundry rooms and prep areas, but its extra-deep bowl gives you even extra cleaning power and your dishes more space to hide until you’re ready to wash and dry. We love how Eden is both functional and fabulous. It features a flat bottom that prevents glasses from shattering and looks incredibly stylish. Plus, with an undermount install, you’ll enjoy easier counter clean-ups and seamless design lines every day.

Last, but certainly not least, we’d like to introduce Grace. The Grace Undermount Fireclay Farmhouse Kitchen Sink is an elegant addition to your kitchen or compact space. This sink is made for the household that is looking for compact design that packs plenty of soaking space. Its shallow yet wide single-bowl design maximizes surface space without a cumbersome install. A simple retrofit installation is all it takes to bring farmhouse charm and seamless surface to your kitchen.

 

These three sinks are incredibly easy to maintain. All you’ll need is a simple daily rinse with soap and water for the cleanest surface and routine application of the Sinkology Fireclay Care IQ Kit for the highest shine. We promise the Anna, Eden and Grace will all withstand the test of time. That’s why we back all three with our Everyday Promise lifetime warranty.  

 

Now that you know a little bit about our top three fireclay sinks, is it clear why we struggled to rank just one at the top of our list? No matter the style or size of your kitchen, the fireclay sink you choose is sure to bring functional beauty into your home.

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If you have any additional questions during your search for the perfect copper, fireclay farmhouse sink or granite sink, our Sinkologists are here to help. Contact us or follow us on Facebook, Houzz, Pinterest, or Instagram for more helpful tips and design ideas.

 

The post Meet Our Current Fireclay Favorites appeared first on Sinkology.

source https://www.sinkology.com/blog/current-fireclay-favorites/

How To: Befriend Your Shared Bathroom

Are you a bathroom buddy? Sharing bathroom space can be a challenge, even for the happiest couples and the most respectful roommates. There’s a lot of grooming, personal space, and “clean up after thyself” issues that are natural in shared bathroom situations. This year’s stay-at-home orders may have made for some interesting challenges in your home: lots of people, all of the time.

But don’t worry: sharing a bathroom harmoniously with your spouse, partner, friend, or roommate is possible! All it takes is a little collaboration and consideration. Yes, both are still important in large bathrooms with a double-sink vanity. Communal bathrooms of all types can easily feel congested when bathroom-mates are out of sync. The first step in sharing a bathroom amicably is to consider how you’ll each need it.

At first thought, it may seem like a lot of time will be spent in the bathroom between the two or three of you. But with a bit of thought, you’ll find there’s plenty of time for all. Obviously, some things have to be done in the bathroom, like showering. But there are plenty of habits that can be done elsewhere like doing your makeup or painting your nails, getting dressed or styling your hair. You might even find a better source of natural light outside of your bathroom in the process. To discourage spending an excessive amount of time in the bathroom, avoid taking in cell phones, tablets, or books. With thoughtful use, you’ll find more time available for all.

But with that extra time comes the need for a clear understanding of when you’ll need it. We believe it’s important to have a general schedule bathroom use, but only for the most necessary things. No, you don’t have to pencil in the exact minute when you will wash your hair and wait for approval before doing so. But, it’s important to understand high-use hours, like before and after work. Aside from the day-to-day schedule, consider when you need a bit of extra time to prep for a date night or enjoy a pampering ritual. No matter how your shared bathroom is used, make sure that everyone has equal access.

One appointment on our shared calendar will need to include cleaning. Again, this doesn’t include the everyday routine. You should be cleaning up after every use. Coordinate the best time to clean at least once per week…together. It doesn’t have to be at the same time with an all-hands-on-deck approach, especially for those with smaller bathrooms. Instead, simply determine who will be responsible for each chore. With clear cleaning expectations, you’ll limit roommate resentment.

Another way to maintain a peaceful environment in your communal bathroom is by staying organized. Each person should have a clearly marked portion of the bathroom to store things. Whether it’s a cabinet shelf, a drawer, or shower caddy, keep your things in your place. It’s basic shared bathroom etiquette. And really, practicing proper etiquette is the best way to share a bathroom. Keep your bathroom-mate in mind and you’re sure to adapt to shared living soon enough.

We hope you love your new living situation, wherever it might take you. Once you’re settled in, we’d love to know your favorite bathroom-mate strategies. Share with us on Instagram @Sinkology.

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If you have any additional questions during your search for the perfect copper, fireclay farmhouse sink or granite sink, our Sinkologists are here to help. Contact us or follow us on Facebook, Houzz, Pinterest, or Instagram for more helpful tips and design ideas.

The post How To: Befriend Your Shared Bathroom appeared first on Sinkology.

source https://www.sinkology.com/blog/befriend-your-shared-bathroom/

Is Copper Right for My Kitchen?

It’s no secret that we at Sinkology appreciate a copper sink in the kitchen. We love how it’s anything but ordinary. Of course, the unique look might lead you to believe a copper sink will never suit your current kitchen design. But trust us on this one, copper is the perfect accessory to any kitchen. Today, we break down some of the benefits a copper sink can bring to kitchens of all types.

Let’s start with different colored kitchens.

Dark-Colored Kitchens

If your kitchen is filled with earthy browns or moody matte black, a copper sink will fit right in. We especially love how a copper sink, when paired with a speckled brown granite backsplash, creates a perfect flow from countertop to wall. But you shouldn’t stop at one copper piece alone. We highly encourage bringing in multiple copper elements to dark-colored kitchens, which will richen the overall look of the room. Don’t be concerned about matching copper perfectly. When it comes to this natural material, it’s better to be less matchy-matchy and more eclectic.

For this kitchen style, consider our Orwell Undermount Copper Sink. The expansive basin shows off its hand-hammered detail beautifully, especially in richly colored kitchens.

 

All-White Kitchens

This kitchen style has proven to withstand the test of time. We love the new obsession with marble white everything. It’s common to see white-washed walls, cabinets, and appliances paired with a white farmhouse sink. But a copper farmhouse sink creates a standout focal point in an otherwise simple monochromatic room. An apron front copper sink is beautiful and timeless, and anything but trendy.

When it comes to an all-white farmhouse kitchen, we highly recommend our Moran Farmhouse Apron Copper Sink. Featuring a warm antique color, it’s the perfect accent to a beloved classic shape.

It’s easy to see how a copper sink brings beauty to any kitchen. But it is so much more than just a centerpiece. No matter what kind of colors fill your kitchen, a copper brings functionality to a whole new level.

Busy Family Kitchens

Copper may look decorative, but it’s incredibly durable, too. Its naturally long lifespan combined with our damage-concealing finishes will withstand anything your family throws its way. For big family dinners, we think a single bowl is best. It’s big enough to handle large loads and has plenty of elbow room for more a comfortable chore experience for your kids, meaning less complaints for you.

For the busiest family kitchens, we think our David Copper Kitchen Sink is the way to go. With its extra-deep bowl – an impressive 9.25” depth – you can load this sink with every prep piece and plate. Plus, the tight corners mean easy clean-up. All you need is a little soap, water, and our Copper Care IQ kit to keep it looking like new, even when you’re an empty nester.

Clean Kitchens

When many people think of a clean kitchen sink, they often picture a crisp white bowl or shiny stainless steel sink. It’s common for some to worry that a copper sink will look – or literally be – dirty. The most clean-obsessed will be happy to know that copper is naturally antimicrobial. Plus, it’s resistant to rust and corrosion, meaning it will stay looking as clean as it actually is.

Any of our copper sinks will suit an extra-clean kitchen, but we recommend our Rivera Copper Sink for the cleanest cleanup. It brings all the naturally cleansing benefits of copper in a double sink form, keeping clean dishes away from dirty water.

Do you have a copper sink in your kitchen? If so, we want to know why you love it in yours. Share a photo on your Instagram story and tag us @Sinkology. We would love to feature you on ours!

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If you have any additional questions during your search for the perfect copper, fireclay farmhouse sink or granite sink, our Sinkologists are here to help. Contact us or follow us on Facebook, Houzz, Pinterest, or Instagram for more helpful tips and design ideas.

The post Is Copper Right for My Kitchen? appeared first on Sinkology.

source https://www.sinkology.com/blog/is-copper-right-for-my-kitchen/