As folks are starting to make up their lists for Santa Claus this time of year, maybe it’s time to make up a little “wish list” for your bathroom as well. There are certain items that every single bathroom should have, so take a few minutes to check out your own throne room to see what it might be lacking. We’ll consider the bath, toilet, mirror, and sink as “given” items on your list and move on from there.

At Kevin Fahy Kitchens and Baths, your safety is our top concern. That’s why we make sure everyone knows they need ground-fault circuit interrupters — popularly known as GFCIs — to protect receptacles in any wet areas. If there is the potential of an electrical shock when a device like a hair dryer, curling iron, or electric razor makes contact with water, the GFCI automatically shuts off the circuit, preventing an electrical discharge that would possibly be fatal to whomever is holding the electrical device.

Safety should also be noted around the cabinet doors where toxic chemical items are stored. If the cabinets are within reach of small children, they should have adequate locks on them.

Depending on who is using your bathroom, you might need additional safety equipment as well. There are tub seats available for anyone who doesn’t have the ability to stand for a long period of time, as well as grab bars to assist getting in and out of the shower or bathtub.

Water conservation is important these days. Low-flow toilets using only 1.6 gallons of water per flush, are now required by law in all new and remodeled bathrooms. The low-flow toilets are either pressure or gravity operated. The pressure versions clear the bowls the fastest, but have the potential to be louder. Gravity models are quieter, but might take a couple flushes.

Don’t forget your lighting. There have been many changes recently in the codes for light fixtures and bulbs. The experts at Fahy Kitchens and Baths can help determine the correct wattage to be sufficient enough to apply makeup or to shave, while staying within code. We will also assist decisions in the lighting location and other decor.

A suitable exhaust fan should also be on your wish list, as it protects against damage from moisture that can lead to health-threatening mold and mildew growth. Excess moisture can also cause damage to the room itself, or lead to potential electrical hazards that your GFCI is installed to prevent. Prevent those problems at the source with a suitable exhaust system.

Now that you have your wish list, don’t wait to see how much of it ends up under your tree — give Fahy Kitchens and Baths a call today to make sure your bathroom is as safe and functional as possible.

Kevin Fahy Kitchens and Baths is located at 1908 Oriskany Street West in Utica, NY. Walk-ins are welcome, but appointments are appreciated. For more information, give us a call at (315) 735-8181.