Peace of mind bathtub rim pads

Abstract

The present invention provides a specially designed protective mat configured expressly to encompass the rim of a bathtub. Designed to provide a reliable, nonskid barrier between the user and the hard surface of the tub's rim, the Peace of Mind-Bathtub Rim Pads also provides a cushiony soft headrest when reclining in the tub. Manufactured of waterproof vinyl material and featuring a soft and pliable poly bead filler, the Peace of Mind-Bathtub Rim Pads features a thick, rubber backing providing extra cushiony support to the unit. The Peace of Mind-Bathtub Rim Pads encompasses the rim of the tub completely, with angled side panels positioned on each end of the front of the unit, which rests flush against the exterior wall of the tub, adding a fancy decorative touch. Spaced evenly about the underside of the unit is a series of thirteen, heavy duty suction cups with which to secure the device to the bathtub rim.

Description

CLAIM OF PRIORITY

This patent application claims priority under 35 USC 119(e)(1) from U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61/340,971 filed Mar. 25, 2010, of common inventorship herewith entitled, “Peace of mind-bathtub rim pads.”

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention pertains to the field of bathtub safety devices, and more specifically to the field of bathtub safety padding devices.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The prior art has put forth several designs for bathtub safety padding devices. Among these are:

U.S. Pat. No. 5,715,546 to Prerna J. Kvalik describes a bathtub cushion formed of a resilient material, such as a closed cell plastic foam. The cushion covers the interior of the bottom of the tub, extending upwardly to cover the interior walls of the tub and the edges of the rim of the tub.

U.S. Pat. No. 6,453,485 to Charles Bullock describes a padded mat device that is used to protect harmful contact with hard surfaces, such as bathtub edges. A plurality of suction cups extend from the bottom surface of the padded mat device. The suction cups adhere to a hard surface being padded.

U.S. Pat. No. 7,152,256 to Holly Roberts describes a padded tub liner for protecting a user from an impact caused by slipping in a bathtub.

None of these prior art references describe the present invention.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

It is an object of the present invention to provide a bathtub rim safety padding device.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is an elevational angled perspective view of the bathtub rim device of the present invention.

FIG. 2 shows several color examples of the device of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Nothing is so calming at the end of a hectic day than soaking in a hot bath. Closing one's eyes and lying back while a current of warm water circulates around the body, spending a few moments of quiet time relaxing in the bathtub truly refreshes the body, mind and spirit. Because soaking in the bathtub is so relaxing, many consumers take steps to make this time even more enjoyable. Lighting scented candles, playing soft music, filling the tub with sweet-smelling salts and bubbling oils, are but a few of the popular ways in which consumers make the most of their bath time. As a result of this trend, stores have sprung up selling a variety of goods, including neck pillows, face masks, body scrubbers, fizzing bath tablets and a myriad of oils and lotions, all designed to turn the bathtub into a personal, luxurious spa.

Perhaps the only drawback associated with taking a bath is maintaining firm footing when climbing into or out of the tub. As such, most bathers instinctively grasp the rim of the bathtub as a means of providing extra support. This is especially true of those consumers who suffer varying degrees of limited mobility and thus lack the strength to simply step into or out of the tub without requiring extra balance. Further, should one loose their footing in the tub, the result can be that the user hits their head or other body part on the hard rim of the tub, thus sustaining painful and sometimes serious injury.

The present invention, hereinafter referred as the Peace of Mind-Bathtub Rim Pads, is a specially designed protective mat configured expressly to encompass the rim of a bathtub. Designed to provide a reliable, nonskid barrier between the user and the hard surface of the tub's rim, the Peace of Mind-Bathtub Rim Pads also provides a cushiony soft headrest when reclining in the tub. Manufactured of waterproof vinyl material and featuring a soft and pliable poly bead filler, the Peace of Mind-Bathtub Rim Pads features a thick, rubber backing providing extra cushiony support to the unit. The Peace of Mind-Bathtub Rim Pads encompasses the rim of the tub completely, with angled side panels positioned on each end of the front of the unit which rests flush against the exterior wall of the tub, adding a fancy decorative touch. The Peace of Mind-Bathtub Rim Pads is produced in various shapes including oval, square or rectangular, appropriate for the many types of standard and garden style bathtubs available on the market. Spaced evenly about the underside of the unit is a series of thirteen, heavy duty suction cups with which to secure the device to the bathtub rim. The Peace of Mind-Bathtub Rim Pads is produced in a myriad of attractive colors to correspond with existing bathroom decors, as well as a host of neutral hues.

Use of the Peace of Mind-Bathtub Rim Pads is very simple and straight forward. A one step application, the user simply purchases the Peace of Mind-Bathtub Rim Pads in the desired size, positioning the mat over the rim of the tub and making any necessary adjustments for a proper fit. With the device properly centered and the side panels extended over the front wall of the tub, the user presses firmly on the mat to ensure that the suction cups are securely adhered in place. Grasping the nonskid Peace of Mind-Bathtub Rim Pads, the user then simply climbs into the tub in order to enjoy a relaxing soak. Leaning back, the user reclines their head on the cushiony mat and enjoys a truly pampering experience.

The Peace of Mind-Bathtub Rim Pads is a unique product invention which offers consumers many significant benefits and advantages. Foremost, this innovative protective mat provides bathers a simple means of ensuring they comfortably climb into or out of a bathtub. A nonskid padding which encompasses the rim of the tub completely, the Peace of Mind-Bathtub Rim Pads enables the user to maintain a firm grasp on the rim as they get into or up and out of the tub. Further, this generous padding provides a protective barrier between the hard rim of the tub and the user, should they accidentally slip or fall. A practical alternative to hitting one's head on a hard porcelain tub, the Peace of Mind-Bathtub Rim Pads proves an invaluable safety tool in any home. This advantage proves particularly beneficial to seniors, as well as those who suffer limited mobility, who, because of age or poor health might find it difficult to maintain their balance when stepping into or out of the bath. More than a mere safety device, the Peace of Mind-Bathtub Rim Pads provides a padded cushion which gently cradles the head and neck when reclining in the bath. Enabling the user to enjoy a spa-like pampering treatment in the home, the Peace of Mind-Bathtub Rim Pads proves a favorite commodity of anyone who enjoys soaking in a hot bath. Well suited for household use, the Peace of Mind-Bathtub Rim Pads this device could also prove a pleasant addition to hotels, motels, spa and hospital bath facilities. Durably constructed, the Peace of Mind-Bathtub Rim Pads withstands years of repeated use.

The Peace of Mind-Bathtub Rim Pads is produced in various shapes including oval, square or rectangular, appropriate for the many types of standard and garden style bathtubs available on the market.

The Peace of Mind-Bathtub Rim Pads is an innovative product invention which offers consumers a new and practical bathroom accessory. A cleverly designed protective mat configured expressly to encompass the rim of a bathtub, this product appeals to a wide variety of consumers.

Although this invention has been described with respect to specific embodiments, it is not intended to be limited thereto and various modifications which will become apparent to the person of ordinary skill in the art are intended to fall within the spirit and scope of the invention as described herein taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings and the appended claims.

Claims

1. A bathtub safety padding device, comprising a protective mat configured expressly to encompass the rim of a bathtub providing a reliable, nonskid barrier between the user and the hard surface of the tub's rim, further comprising a cushioned soft headrest to support the user's head for reclining in the tub.

2. The device of claim 1, comprised of waterproof vinyl material and soft and pliable poly bead filler, configured in a thick, rubber backing providing extra cushiony support to the unit.

3. The device of claim 1 further comprising angled side panels positioned on each end of the front of the unit which rests flush against the exterior wall of the tub.

4. The device of claim 1 produced in various shapes including oval, square and rectangular, appropriate for the many types of standard and garden style bathtubs available on the market.

5. The device of claim 1 further comprising a series of heavy duty suction cups spaced evenly about the underside of the unit to secure the device to the bathtub rim.

6. The device of claim 5, wherein the number of suction cups is thirteen.

7. The device of claim 1 produced in various colors to correspond with existing bathroom decors, as well as a host of neutral hues.