The green trend is quickly expanding to the bath where systems and materials offer homeowners practical, eco-friendly ways to boost health and hygiene.
Creating Better Flow
In the average American household, 75 percent of the water consumed is in the bathroom. Designing bathrooms with water conserving fixtures is a positive progression toward saving the Earth’s precious water resource, assisting with the growing environmental trend. Water conserving products, such as low flush toilets and faucets, are readily available through a number of manufacturers.
Most environmentally-friendly residential toilets now feature a dual flush technology system that contain dual handles for flushing liquid and solid waste. Many companies are also introducing anti-microbial surfaces that inhibit the growth of bacteria, mold and mildew on these ceramic fixtures.
Eco-Friendly Luxuries
Indulgent, jetted whirlpool baths greedily use over 80 gallons of water per experience. On top of that, some versions of these popular tubs may harbor bacteria in the jets that could prove harmful to your health. In many new homes, this dated version is being replaced with a luxurious steambathing system that utilizes anywhere from two to four gallons of water per half hour of use. New technology such as the Mr.Steam® AutoFlush® system introduces fresh, clean water each time you steam and drains the water after every use. Retrofitting into an existing bathroom is also fairly easy. Turning your shower into a steamroom can greatly reduce water consumption and lower energy bills, while offering many holistic benefits.
On the Surface
As another step to “greening” the bathroom, is the thoughtful selection of the materials used and the consideration of the manufacturing processes employed for cabinets, vanities, countertops and flooring. It is easier than ever to research how wood, fiber, metal, and other materials are harvested and produced to make the final use product.
For vanities and cabinets, look for sustainable woods or rapidly renewable materials like bamboo, wheat straw, or cork. When looking for surface materials, consider recycled or reusable material such as vetrazzo, made from recycled glass, or reclaimed wood from old mills, barns or salvaged from river bottoms and swamps.
The Mr.Steam residential steam generator, water tank and outer enclosure are made from naturally corrosion resistant, 100 percent recyclable stainless steel inside and out. Well-recognized for its longevity and durability, Mr.Steam’s stainless steel products provide a high quality and environmentally sound choice for your home spa.
Start Small
Begin to embrace a greener lifestyle by starting small. For instance, you can start by turning off water while you brush your teeth or begin using environmentally safe cleaning and body care products. No matter where you start, it won’t be long before thinking and being green will seem like second nature.