How to Prepare a Relaxing Bath

A simple guide to drawing the perfect bath for a relaxing soak

Co-authored by Lorena Barcal

Last Updated: March 10, 2023 Approved

Sometimes just the thought of a luxurious bath at the end of a long day can help you power through. When it’s finally time for you to relax, make the most of your experience. Light candles, play calming music, and use oils or a scented bubble bath to create a restful atmosphere. Take your time soaking in the water, close your eyes for a few minutes, or enjoy reading your favorite magazine.

Method 1

Method 1 of 3:

Getting the Bathtub Ready

1
Start with a clean tub for the best experience. You won’t feel very relaxed if you get into a grimy tub. Even if your tub has been cleaned recently, take a moment to wipe it down with a damp towel to clear away any dust or hair that may have accumulated.
- It’s a good idea to wipe down the tub after you take a bath, too, so that there isn’t a build-up of soap scum over time.
2
Fill the tub with hot water while you get the rest of your bath ready. Use water that is steamy and hot to the touch, but don’t get it so hot that you can’t hold your hand under the stream. Make sure to plug the tub’s drain!
- You can always add more hot water while you’re in the tub if it needs a warm-up.
Warning: If you’re pregnant, opt for warm water rather than hot. If your temperature goes above 102 °F (39 °C) or if you get lightheaded, get out and let the water cool down before you get back in.^{[1]
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3
Add some bubble bath or a bath bomb for some aromatherapy. You could make your own bubble bath or bath bombs or buy some from the store. Bubble bath gives you the experience of bathing in bubbles, which can be fun and relaxing, and bath bombs are famous for creating beautiful colors for you to enjoy in the tub.^{[2]
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- If you’re using bubble bath, pour about ¹⁄₈ cup (30 mL) into the tub while the water is still filling up. The stream of water will help mix and distribute the bubbles.
4
Use essential oils to relax your body or clear your sinuses. Combine 6-8 drops of essential oils to 1 tablespoon (15 mL) of carrier oil, like coconut or jojoba oil. After the water has finishing filling, add the mixture to the tub.
- Eucalyptus and peppermint are great if you have a stuffy nose.
- Lavender is a relaxing scent.
- Lemon and rosemary are anti-inflammatories and can help boost your mood.
Warning: Avoid using cinnamon, clove, thyme, and tea tree oil in the bath as they could irritate your skin.
5
Relax your muscles with epsom salts. Use 2 cups (473 grams) of epsom salts in your bath. Pour the salts in while the water is filling up to help it dissolve a little faster. You can also stir the water with your hand to dissolve whatever remains. Soak in the tub for 15-20 minutes or more for the best results.^{[3]
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- Your body will absorb the magnesium and sulfate from the salts, which can loosen your joints and relax your muscles.

Method 2

Method 2 of 3:

Creating a Relaxing Atmosphere

1
Create a playlist filled with relaxing tunes to play during your bath. If you want to wind-down, avoid playing anything with a fast or heavy beat. Opt for instrumental or background music for a pleasant, calming effect.
- Many music-streaming services have pre-made playlists or stations specifically made for relaxation. Just search for “relaxing music” and see what pops up.
Tip: Search for “zen,” “yoga,” or “meditation” music. These tracks should help you clear your mind and enjoy the moment.
2
Clear away clutter so the space is visually appealing. Move dirty clothes, cosmetics, toys, and anything else that is taking up space on the bathroom counter. Put them away in drawers if needed, or set them out in the hall. The last thing you want is to look up from your bath and feel stressed about what needs to be cleaned up!
- If you can, take 10-15 minutes to clean your bathroom before taking a bath. It might help you relax more easily.
3
Use a bath caddy to keep your things dry. With a bath caddy, you’ll have space for a drink, snack, book, or anything else you’d like to have with you. Set up the caddy while the water is filling and put your things in place so that it’s ready to go once the bath is done.
- You can buy bath caddies that have props to hold up books or magazines, slots for the stems of wine glasses, and more.
4
Dim the lights and light some candles for a relaxing aesthetic. Bright overhead lights could keep you from de-stressing, so opt to turn them down or completely off. Put candles on the countertops and around the edge of the tub if there is room.^{[4]
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- Use unscented candles if you are using essential oils or a scented bubble bath. If not, light one of your favorite scented candles to enjoy while in the tub.
- After your bath, double-check that all the flames have been extinguished.
5
Tell your family that you’re not to be disturbed when you’re in the bath. If you live with other people and want to guarantee that you won’t be interrupted while you’re trying to relax, let them know ahead of time what your expectations are. If you have little kids, ask a partner or friend to watch them for 1/2 an hour so you can have some alone time.
- If you have pets, you may want to keep the bathroom door shut during your bath. Otherwise, they might come in and beg for your attention and disturb the peace!

Method 3

Method 3 of 3:

Unwinding in the Bath

1
Give your skin some TLC with a face mask before you get in the tub. You can make your own or buy a mask from the store. If you have long hair, pull it back so it doesn’t get in the way.^{[5]
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- Avocado, honey, olive oil, coconut oil, and even egg whites can be used to make a hydrating mask right in your own home.
2
Enjoy a glass of wine and an indulgent snack while you soak. Take this opportunity to savor a special treat that you’ve been saving. While chocolates or candies are probably the most popular bath-time indulgence, you can choose anything you’d like! It’s probably best to avoid anything that might get crumbs in the bathwater, though.
- If you don’t drink wine, choose something else! Sparkling water can feel special and there are tons of great flavors to choose from. Even coffee or tea can be enjoyable as long as it doesn’t make you too hot.
3
Read a good book or magazine for some indulgent me-time. Bring along the book you’ve been meaning to read forever or grab a fun magazine the next time you’re at the grocery store. Whatever you choose, enjoy taking some personal time to do something relaxing for yourself.
- Keep a towel nearby to dry off your hands so that the pages of the book or magazine don’t get wet.
4
Use a body scrub to exfoliate and soften your skin after a long day. Buy a scrub from the store or make your own at home. While you’re in the tub, scoop out about 2 to 3 tablespoons (30 to 44 mL) of the scrub and rub it over your arms and legs with a circular motion. Rinse off the scrub when you’re finished.^{[6]
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- You can use body scrub at any stage during your bath, but if you don’t like the idea of bathing in the rinsed-off scrub, just wait until you’re about to get out to do this.
5
Dry off after your bath with a clean, fluffy towel. Before you get into the bath, take a moment to pick out a clean towel from the cupboard and set it beside the tub. That way, you won’t have to use an old, damp towel from your morning’s shower.
- Consider having a special towel that only you use for your relaxing baths. This will keep the towel in great condition and it’ll make your self-care time feel even more special.
Tip: To keep your towels in a fluffier condition, use less detergent and dry them for less time than you would the rest of your laundry.

Community Q&A

Question

Can a bath give me a good night sleep?

Community Answer

Yes. It helps you sleep better as long as the water is not too hot or too cold.
Question

What else should I use if I don't have any essential oils?

Community Answer

If you don't have any essential oils, just squeeze in some of your favorite shower gel, which will make your bath smell really good and most likely will create bubbles. Also, you could try a product such as a bath bomb or bubble bar, which can be very calming and smell good.
Question

Is vanilla essential oil relaxing?

Community Answer

Yes! Vanilla scents typically evoke a cozy and comfortable feeling. Be careful though, you technically cannot get essential oil from vanilla, only what is called an "absolute."

Warnings

If you feel dizzy while in the bath, carefully get out. It could be that your blood pressure was affected or you got too hot.

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