Cleaning and Care of Your Faucets

Faucets are seldom chosen simply for their utilitarian function; they are a part of your décor. That is why we have so many different styles and finishes to choose from. Chrome, brass, bronze and copper finishes are all available, as well as designer color choices. Styles come in sleek contemporary forms for the modern home, antique replicas for the period home and plenty of traditional styles for the homeowner to choose from as well.

The faucets always look beautiful when first installed, but keeping them shiny and looking new, does require proper care and cleaning. There is nothing complicated about caring for your faucets, but there are a few do’s and don’ts that need to be kept in mind.

  • Don’t let water droplets dry on your faucet when cleaning. Wipe them dry with a soft cloth to prevent mineral deposit being left behind.
  • If you do get water spots left on the faucet finish, wash off with warm water and buff dry with a soft cloth. For harder mineral deposits, use a half-and-half solution of water and vinegar to remove the deposits, rinse with plain water and buff dry.
  • Don’t use tub & tile cleaners on your faucet or shower fixtures. These have more caustic cleaning agents in them that can dull the finish.
  • Use of gentle household cleaners or window cleaners will leave your faucets shining.
  • The aerator on the spout of your faucet can get clogged with mineral deposits from hard water. To clean the aerator, simply remove it and let it soak in vinegar overnight. In the morning, rinse it with clean water and replace.

Adding An Outdoor Shower

Having an outside shower is an amazing experience. It is refreshing and relaxing, as well as a very useful fixture. There are several reasons to consider adding an outdoor shower to your home, some that are practical and some that are just for your own pleasure.

Hot Tub And Pool Owners

Chlorine and other chemicals in pools and hot tubs need to be washed off after you use them. Instead of your family tracking through the house to the bathroom to shower, it is much nicer and convenient to have an outside shower for them to rinse off in.

 Dog Owners

Washing your dog in a bathtub or shower can create a big mess.  A cleaner and more convenient solution is to use an outside shower instead. This is easier on the dog, saves strain on your back and has much less clean up. No wet paw prints throughout your house!

 Pure Enjoyment

What better way to cool off on a hot day then to jump into a refreshing shower outdoors? Having an outside shower to splash off the days heat or just to relax in under the sky can be a wonderful experience.

 Be Creative

Outside showers can be as simple as adding faucets, a showerhead, and drain in the open or even use a portable shower device. However, the ideal outside shower is an enclosed area with privacy and atmosphere. You can use plants, cedar planks or screens to create a private area. Add shelving and other amenities to store your shower essentials.

Once you have an outside shower, you will wonder how you ever lived without one. It is an addition to your home that is both luxurious and very useful.