How To Run The Perfect Bath

 

There's nothing quite like a long, relaxing soak in a warm bath. But for those fortunate to have a spacious walk-in bathtub, the experience can be even more indulgent and rejuvenating.

Drawing the perfect bath in a tub is an art form that takes your standard bath to a whole new level of luxury and self-care. It’s about more than just getting clean. Sliding into a bathtub filled with perfectly warm water is a ritual that gently washes the worries and stress of the day down the drain.

1. Difference between walk-in and standard bathtubs
2. Running the perfect walk-in bath
3. Setting the scene for optimal relaxation
4. Transform each soak into a spa-like escape

Emerging after a 20-minute, 30-minute or even 60-minute soak leaves you feeling refreshed, relaxed, and ready to lounge into the evening or drift into a restful sleep. A walk-in tub offers plenty of room to stretch out and options like hydrotherapy jets to massage away tension.

Taking the time to create the ideal environment and dial in all the details results in a soothing, spa-like escape right in the comfort of your own home. A few thoughtful touches can transform your daily bath into a luxurious ritual of relaxation and self-care.

Follow these bath tips to learn the art of running the perfect bath tailored to your needs, whether you want to unwind after a long day, ease sore muscles, or simply feel pampered and serene.

Differences Between Walk-In and Standard Bathtubs

Before diving into creating the perfect bath, it's helpful to understand what sets walk-in tubs apart from regular bathtubs. Walk-in tubs have a watertight door that allows you to step directly into the tub rather than having to climb over the side.

The door also makes them safer and more accessible. Other advantages of walk-in tubs can include:

• Built-in seating and grab bars for support and stability
• Non-slip floors for added safety
• Fast-fill options to fill the large tub quickly
• Hydrotherapy jets for massaging sore muscles

The spacious size and available features like hydrotherapy make walk-in tubs ideal for a tranquil, spa-like bathing experience.

Running the Perfect Walk-In Bath

Now that you understand the key features of walk-in tubs, it's time to learn how to run a bath correctly.

Running a soothing, spa-like bath in a walk-in tub requires paying attention to details like water temperature, fill level, bath products, and more. Follow these expert tips for drawing a walk-in bath tailored to your relaxation and rejuvenation goals.

Water Temperature

The temperature of the water impacts the overall effect of the bath. The perfect bath temperature depends on you but should be quite hot yet still comfortable. For safety and comfort, experts caution against excessively hot bath water.

Ideally, the water temperature should not exceed 40°C (104°F). Warm water soaks offer many benefits. They stimulate circulation and relax muscles without overheating the body. Start with water on the hotter end, but give it a test with your wrist before stepping in to ensure it's not painfully hot.

Fill Level

Fill the tub until the water is approximately hip-to-chest high when you're seated. This allows your upper body to soak comfortably You can always add more water if it doesn’t adequately cover you.

Deeper water often lets you experience more of its soothing benefits, but be careful of the water overflowing.

Bubbles or No Bubbles

While bubbles can be fun, they often dissipate quickly and take away from the tranquil vibe of a spa-like soak – unless you’ve found a fantastic brand. If you haven’t, skip the bubbles and opt for oils, Epsom salts, oatmeal, and other add-ins instead.

Bath Salts and Add-Ins

Consider adding in a scoop of bath salts, Epsom salts, essential oils, oatmeal, clay, bath bombs or any other aromatic add-ins that you’re fond of. Salts help in a variety of ways. They can soften the water while also providing benefits like sore muscle relief, detoxification, and aromatherapy benefits.

The amount of add-ins that you use depends entirely on you. Just be sure to use products that won’t dry out your skin or cause irritation.

Ideal Soak Time

Once you've filled your walk-in tub and settled in, how long should you stay put for maximum benefits? Generally, aim for at least 15 minutes. It takes time for your body temperature to adjust and reach that profoundly relaxed state.

We recommend anywhere from 30-60 minutes for ideal stress relief and muscle relaxation. Just be sure to listen to your body and get out if you start feeling overheated, lightheaded, or sleepy. The last thing you want is to doze off.

Additional Relaxation Accessories

An eye mask, ear plugs, bath pillow, and loofah or bath brush can optimise your relaxation. Use these to block out light and sound, cushion your head and neck, exfoliate gently, and maximise the comfort of your soak.

After Your Soak

Your bath sets the stage for a self-care experience beyond just the soak. When you're ready to get out, don't hurry the process and make sure the water has fully drained before stepping out. Drink some cool water or tea to rehydrate. Slip into a cosy robe, then settle in for some quiet rest and further relaxation.

Setting the Scene for Optimal Relaxation

Before running your walk-in bath, set the stage for complete relaxation by making the bathroom as tranquil as possible.

• Dim the lights and eliminate any harsh overhead lighting. Light a few candles to create a soothing or romantic atmosphere.
• Queue up a customised ‘bath for relaxation’ playlist tuned to your favourite chill-out music or nature sounds.
• Have towels warming on the towel rack or heater so they'll be ultra-cosy when you emerge from your bath.
• Clear away any clutter on the counters and surfaces to maintain a calm environment.
• Have a book, magazine, or tablet ready for entertainment during your soak.
• Switch up your entertainment - listen to an audiobook, watch a show, or simply unplug completely.
• Prepare a hot cup of herbal tea or a glass of wine for the ultimate indulgence.

Transform Each Soak into a Spa-Like Escape

Use these tips to draw the perfect walk-in bath tailored to your needs, whether your goal is to unwind after a stressful day, soothe sore muscles, or simply feel pampered and serene.

With its spacious size and high-end features like hydrotherapy jets, a walk-in tub makes it easy to replicate the experience of visiting a fancy spa right in your own home. A little planning and some thoughtful touches are all it takes to transform each soak into a relaxing escape.