K E Ranganathan shares the need for high tech-driven bathrooms amid the pandemic
While many would like to flush the year 2020 down the toilet, bathroom tech is a no joke. Today, we live in a rapidly changing, technological world, where technology affects several parts of our lives. As it continues to progress, the way we interact with our environment will likely only grow more and more futuristic — even spaces as personal as our home bathrooms. In the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic breakout, which requires adequate social distancing and minimal human touch, technology-led products and solutions in bathroom space are much in demand.
There is an increased emphasis on products that minimise the human touch and are equipped with sensor technology or products that effectively prevent germ buildup. While bathrooms have traditionally been functional, utilitarian spaces, the latest developments in technology are making bathing an even more luxurious experience. Individuals are opting for ultra-modern bathrooms that are beyond functionality, aesthetic in nature and have a wellness quotient attached to their space. Here is how you can amp up your bathroom experience and make it futuristic.
IoT-based smart shower: With water flowing at the perfect temperature, a smart shower can be used by just a simple gesture through which one can adjust, modify or stop the water flow to lather up and continue enjoying it in the same condition afterward. An advanced design that comes equipped with a colour screen, temperature controls as well as touch buttons with integrated light adds to the look and feel of the bathroom. Its user-friendly technology boosts enjoyment by offering a very intuitive experience, even for children and the elderly. With this installed, bathers who like to sing in the shower can now enjoy this luxury effortlessly.
Smart in-wash with in-tank WCs: Modern toilets do not require hands or paper. These toilets have temperature-controlled water, spritzing wands and air dryers to clean and sanitize. Giving a unique feeling of cleanliness, the in-wash technology will allow you to customise all washing and drying functions with an intuitive (remote/inbuilt) control panel. To take it a step further, the smart toilet with in-tank integrates the tank into the bowl, removing the cistern from the bathroom space, making it more appealing. It is such a pleasant and transforming comprehensive experience of cleanliness and comfort that it has found its place in many homes.
Furniture unit with bluetooth speakers and internal lighting: Now even furniture units can be one of the elements that adds comfort in the bathroom space with inbuilt bluetooth connectivity speakers, power outlet and internal lighting. With internal compartments for all the toiletries, there will be plenty of room to store almost everything in one place, giving a neater, spacious and smart look to one’s bathroom along with a fun element — getting ready on your favourite music beats and perfect lighting.
W+W Revolution: W+W is a state-of-the-art product that combines basin and toilet in one single piece. The basin of the W+W is integrated on the upper part of the tank of the toilet, allowing the reuse of the water we need to wash in the flush of the cistern. A selective system discards the waste water, while a powerful filtering system keeps the remaining water clean and disinfected. Usage of this innovation can help in the reduction of water usage and allow more space in the bathroom without compromising aesthetics.
LED mirrors: Decorative and innovative mirrors are essential pieces in the bathroom space. To provide maximum comfort, mirrors are now adapting to the new demands with presence sensors to avoid hand contact and LED lights that allow an individual to fully appreciate every detail. With no physical contact required, the motion sensors activate LED lights simply with one hand motion and another sensor activates the demister device that avoids the hassle of wiping the mirror after showering, ensuring it always looks spotless. LED mirrors not just increase brightness in the bathroom but also generate a uniform reflection, with no brilliance or shades.
Sensor-based touchless faucets: As we aim at total safety and hygiene in the bathroom, automatic taps controlled by a sensor are therefore a good alternative for making hand-washing more hygienic. These faucets are equipped with an infrared sensor that activates the water flow when a presence is detected, minimizing direct contact with the faucet, preventing the transmission of microorganisms and maximizing hygiene at home. It’s high time to get high-tech with our toilets. Isn’t it?
(The writer is the Managing Director of Roca Parryware.)