Traditional Tub takes a Tumble
The traditional tub in the average American home is getting a serious make-over, by way of both comfort and design. Bathrooms in general are smart investments for remodeling, yielding on average a 64% return on your investment at time of resale. The American traditional bathtub is usually connected to the shower so it's no wonder the average American does not want to soak in a tub where people's feet and run-off have been. And honestly, most of us complain that we also just don't have the time to bathe when we can shower. However, more and more American homes are taking a second look at the purpose and design of the bathtub. In other cultures, especially the Japanese, the bathtub is not used for cleaning or bathing but rather soaking and relaxing. This means they spend more time on the look and design of their tubs and they are always separate from the shower. Americans are taking a hint at the luxury a bath can be with the addition of the individual soaking tubs, meant for simple relaxation. Gone are the days of oversized whirlpool tubs and now are the days of freestanding tubs, soaking tubs, and single-person tubs that are both attractive and comfortable.
Keeping it Comfy on the Go
Our comforts in the bathroom are just as important, if not more, when we are also on the go. Just consider the advances in the formerly "taboo" portable toilet (or a porta potty as we may know it). From ceramic toilets, full sinks and basins and washing stations, the modern day portable toilet is designed to mimic the comforts of home. There are even portable bathroom trailers that are typically used at major events, or outdoor festivals. One unique way we like to stay comfortable on the go is by actually using residential bathrooms from people who rent their bathrooms to complete strangers seeking comfort. A service based out of New Orleans is trying out this concept with their company named AirPnP, whose motto is "Pee All That You Can Pee." People use their website to find people advertising their home bathrooms when they cannot find one on the go. People then review the bathroom so you can decipher which ones are clean, and which are not.
Hotel Hot-Spots
Beyond residential and on the go comforts, commercial bathrooms are also taking our comfort into consideration. Hotels in particular have taken to a very minimalist design. For example, creating a sleek and spacious space allows people to more easily move around the bathroom, giving people just what they need and spending more time and money on more utilitarian and functional aspects of the bathroom rather than simply aesthetic. For example, railing, shower seats, and the toilet are all ergonomically designed for comfort rather than looks (though most hotels also take look into consideration). And despite the minimalist look of the bathroom, most hotels still infuse modern touches. Technological features include digital showers that turn on and off with button controls and even a touch screen that is incredibly user friendly, and fun, to use. These digital touch screens can even change the temperature and pressure of the shower or tub water.
So no matter where you are: on the go or at home, in our culture, going to the bathroom has never been more comfortable.
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