How to Prepare a Relaxing Bath

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

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  1. 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. [1]
    • 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. 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. [2]

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  3. 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. [3]
    • 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. 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. [4]
    • Your body will absorb the magnesium and sulfate from the salts, which can loosen your joints and relax your muscles.
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Method 2
Method 2 of 3:

Creating a Relaxing Atmosphere

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  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. 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. 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. 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. [5]
    • 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. 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!
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Method 3
Method 3 of 3:

Unwinding in the Bath

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  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. [6]
    • 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. 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. 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. [7]
    • 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. 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.

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  • 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.
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  • 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.
    Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
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  • 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."
    Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
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      Tips

      • If you hate the feeling of cold porcelain against your skin, invest in a waterproof pillow to rest your head against in the tub.
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      Tips from our Readers

      The advice in this section is based on the lived experiences of wikiHow readers like you. If you have a helpful tip you’d like to share on wikiHow, please submit it in the field below.
      • Wash your hair toward the end of your bath. Leave the shampoo or hair mask in for about five minutes standing and starting the shower. Rinse your hair thoroughly and then get out. You'll feel as good as new!
      • Choose candles, bath bombs, and other fragrant items that have complementary smells. Choosing a lavender bath bomb and a citrus candle, for example, may throw off the calming energy of your bath.
      • When choosing your music, try meditation music. It's really relaxing and there's a lot of different styles to choose from. Or, choose one of your favorite playlists that you know relaxes you.
      • Be careful not to fall asleep in the tub, which can be dangerous. If you feel yourself getting over-relaxed, hop out and wiggle your fingers and toes to wake yourself up.
      • After you get out of the bath, put on a rich and moisturizing lotion to complete your relaxation and pampering!
      • If you don't want to feel like you're sitting in dirty water, take a quick shower before getting in the bath.
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      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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      Things You’ll Need

      Getting the Bathtub Ready

      • Clean towel
      • Cleaning supplies (optional)
      • Bubble bath
      • Bath bomb
      • Essential oils
      • Carrier oil
      • Epsom salts

      Creating a Relaxing Atmosphere

      • Music-playing device
      • Bath caddy
      • Candles
      • Matches or lighter

      Unwinding in the Bath

      • Face mask
      • Drink and snack
      • Book or magazine
      • Body scrub
      • Towel

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      References

      1. ↑ https://www.cleaninginstitute.org/cleaning-tips/clean-home/room-room/bathroom-cleaning-tips
      2. ↑ https://health.clevelandclinic.org/reasons-to-take-a-bath/
      3. ↑ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6011066/
      4. ↑ https://health.clevelandclinic.org/7-things-you-probably-didnt-know-about-epsom-salt/
      5. ↑ https://www.helpguide.org/articles/stress/caregiver-stress-and-burnout.htm
      6. ↑ https://www.pennmedicine.org/updates/blogs/health-and-wellness/2020/march/the-magic-behind-face-masks
      7. ↑ https://www.nm.org/healthbeat/healthy-tips/do-you-really-need-a-skin-care-routine

      About This Article

      Article Summary X

      To prepare a relaxing bath, start with a clean tub and fill it with steamy, hot water. Add some bubble bath or a bath bomb to the water for some soothing aromatherapy. You can also add a few drops of essential oils like lavender for extra relaxation, or eucalyptus and peppermint to clear your sinuses. If your body is sore, pour in 2 cups of Epsom salts, which can loosen your joints and relax your muscles. To create a relaxing atmosphere, turn off the lights in your bathroom and light some candles instead. For more tips on unwinding in your bath, like how to make your own hydrating face mask, keep reading!

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