Patent Publication Number: US-2011056038-A1

Title: Bathing buddy scrubber

Description:
CLAIM OF PRIORITY 
     This patent application claims priority under 35 USC 119(e) (1) from U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61/275,106 filed Aug. 25, 2009, of common inventorship herewith entitled, “Bathing Buddy Scrubber.” 
    
    
     FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
     The present invention pertains to the field of shower accessories, and more specifically to the field of wall mounted back scrubbers for use in the shower. 
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     The prior art has put forth several designs for wall mounted back scrubbers. Among these are: 
     U.S. Pat. No. 5,312,666 to Karol Jovanovic describes a disinfectable three piece wall mounted back scrubber using a detachable cloth surface. 
     U.S. Pat. No. 5,600,864 to Lloyd Huber describes a reversible back scrubber having a reversible cleaning pad having two sides. 
     U.S. Pat. No. 5,628,083 to Cecil Hayes describes a back cleanser and balm applicator which mounts to a wall with suction cups. 
     None of these prior art devices describe the present invention. 
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     It is an object of the present invention to provide an improved wall mounted back scrubber for use in the shower. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         FIG. 1  is a perspective front view of the back scrubber of the present invention mounted onto a shower wall. 
         FIG. 2  is a back view of the back scrubber of the present invention showing suction cup mounting means. 
         FIG. 3  is a perspective front view of an alternative embodiment of the present invention showing hook and loop strips for removable attachment of wash cloth. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION 
     Regular cleansing of the body is important in order to achieve optimal health. Everyday, the average person picks up literally millions of microscopic germs and bacteria, simply by shaking hands, using public facilities or working outdoors. If left undisturbed, these germs and bacteria can infiltrate the immune system, resulting in colds, flu and other illness. Additionally, most adults, teens and children alike, perspire throughout the day. Perspiration is the evaporation of sweat through thousands of glands located all over the body. Serving to control body temperature by cooling the skin, perspiration is a natural process that often leaves one feeling uncomfortable, wet and unclean. Taking a shower or bath and scrubbing the body with gentle soaps, shampoos and cleansers helps rid the body of this unclean feeling, as well as washing away unpleasant body odors that result from perspiration and other bodily functions. 
     Although regularly taking a bath or shower is of utmost importance for healthy hygiene, there are areas of the body that can be difficult to properly clean. Specifically, thoroughly removing dirt and oil from those hard to reach areas, such as the lower back, spinal column and between the shoulder blades, can be a nearly impossible task. Twisting, turning and stretching the arms in awkward positions, most people simply lack the dexterity and the strength to adequately clean these hard to reach areas of their body. 
     Recognizing the need for a product that enables consumers to thoroughly clean hard to reach areas of the body including the back, the present invention, hereinafter referred to as the Bathing Buddy, was developed. The Bathing Buddy is a specially designed wall mounted scrubbing tool which is configured specifically to thoroughly clean hard to reach areas of the body. The Bathing Buddy comprises a rigid, yet lightweight rubber framework, on the surface of which a specially designed wash cloth or scrubbing tool configured for use with the unit is easily attached. Generally square in shape, this unique hygiene tool measure approximately 15 inches in length and width, thus is sized appropriately to encompass the entire back of an average adult user. The Bathing Buddy framework is secured to the existing bathroom wall via durable 2.5 inch diameter suction cups spaced evenly about the underside of the unit. The actual scrubbing cloth can be produced in a variety of textures to accommodate individual needs. This cleansing surface is secured to the surface of the Bathing Buddy via corresponding self affixing hook and loop or snap fasteners positioned on the underside of the cloth and top of the unit, respectively. In an alternative embodiment, an inflatable bath pillow designed to facilitate comfort when lounging in the tub, can be included with the unit. 
     Use of the Bathing, Buddy is very simple and straight forward. Once purchased, the user simply mounts the unit directly to the desired bath tub or shower stall wall, according to easily followed package instructions. The user then secures a clean, fresh cleansing cloth to the surface of the Bathing Buddy via the corresponding hook and loop or snap fasteners. The user then applies their favorite liquid or cake soap to the surface of the cloth. Stepping into the shower or bathtub, the user washes their hair, face, neck, arms and legs, per usual. Next, the user cleans those hard to reach areas of their body by utilizing the Bathing Buddy. Leaning back against the unit, the user utilizes the attached wash cloth to gently scrub away dirt, germs, bacteria and dead skin cells from between and over their shoulder blades, the small of their back, their spinal column, as well as the hips and buttocks. After use, the user simply rinses off in the tub or shower, allowing the dirt and soap residue to wash away down the drain. The Bathing Buddy can be left in place within the tub or shower and the cleansing cloth is laundered along with other household linens. 
     The Bathing Buddy is an innovative invention which offers consumers a number of significant benefits and advantages. Foremost, this practical product offers consumers a simple and effective means of thoroughly cleaning hard to reach areas of the body. Gently scrubbing away germs and bacteria from the back, shoulders and spinal column, use of the Bathing Buddy ensures that even those areas of the body that can be nearly impossible to reach, are clean and fresh. Eliminating the need to bend, twist or stretch the arms in awkward positions, simply in order to properly clean the back, the Bathing Buddy offers a comfortable alternative to other methods of cleaning. This advantage will prove especially beneficial to those who suffer limited mobility or back pain, ensuring that those who lack the physical dexterity to properly clean themselves, can do so easily and efficiently. 
     Massaging the back with a soft, cleansing wash cloth, another advantage to this product is that the Bathing Buddy feels invigorating to use. Revitalizing and refreshing, use of the Bathing Buddy serves as a “mini” massager, providing a therapeutic means of relieving the stresses of the day. The Bathing Buddy also proves especially useful to those consumers who suffer acne and various skin maladies of the back and other hard to reach areas. Although designed with the home user in mind, this product will also prove well suited for use in spas and athletic clubs. Easy to operate, the Bathing Buddy can be effectively utilized by most children and adults, regardless of physical shape or conditions. Durably constructed, the Bathing Buddy will withstand years of repeated use. 
     The Bathing Buddy is a cleverly designed invention which enables consumers to easily and thoroughly clean all areas of their body. Simple to use, this innovative hygiene tool proves an invaluable accessory for any household consumer. Affordably priced, the Bathing Buddy should be well received by the general consumer populace. 
     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.