How to Make a Bath

Taking a bath can be more relaxing than a quick shower in the morning before going to work. And while it seems like a pretty straightforward thing to do, there are dome do’s and don’ts worth taking into account to make the best out of this relaxing experience. 5-Minute Crafts shows you how to make a bath the right way.

1. Give a quick clean to the tub.

It’s no secret that bathtubs are prone to having soap scum, mildew, grime, mineral deposits, and stray hairs. All those could end up on your body if you don’t clean them. That’s why it’s important to wipe down the inside of the tub with a paper towel or a cloth.

2. Fill up the tub with water.

Fill your tub with lukewarm to slightly hot water. You can test the temperature with your elbow.

3. Meanwhile, set the atmosphere.

To prepare your bath, think of taking a bath as a complete experience: it starts now, when you’re preparing the bath, and it ends only when you’re sipping a tea on your couch afterward.

• You can use essential oils for a soothing scent. In that case add 10-15 drops of your favorite oil while the water is still running.
• At this point, you can also use any bubbles, bath bombs, or body salts you like.
• You can also install a bath caddy if you want to have a tea or coffee, or read something while bathing. While this is just a suggestion, we think it’s better to not bring your phone with you. Keep in mind that bathing is a time to disconnect from the world and connect with yourself.
• Music and candles (scented or not) are also common ways of setting a nice atmosphere. If you do use candles, make sure to never leave them unattended.

4. Enjoy your bath and always moisturize when you’re done.

Now it’s time to enjoy and relax.

• Some people prefer taking a shower before bathing so as not feel like they’re bathing in their own dirt. If you didn’t shower, consider whether or not you want to wash your hair (otherwise you can put your hair up).
• As the water starts to cool down, turn the faucet and let some hot water run to reheat the tub and get it back to the ideal water temperature.
• Once you’re done, let the water drain and rinse away any remaining soap from your body. If you need to shave, now that your follicles have softened, this is the perfect time to do it. Otherwise, just pat your body dry.
• Always apply moisturizer after a bath.

Do’s and Don’ts

✅ Do save soap for the end to avoid breaking down the skin barrier. Hot soapy water could make your skin dry.

⛔️ Don’t bathe for longer than 15 minutes, 10 if you added a generous amount of bath salts, which are especially drying.

✅ Do add a generous quantity of bath oil (or safflower, almond, or sunflower oil) to keep moisture in.

⛔️ Don’t bathe or shower too often. Not only are you wasting water, but it could cause dry, itchy skin and allow bad bacteria to enter through cracked skin.

✅ Do use a trigger ball massage to apply specific pressure to a stiff or aching spot in a muscle. You can do that by trapping it between your body and something else, like the back of the tub. Then crush your trigger points, the pressure will undo the “knots.”

⛔️ Don’t forget to replace your loofah. Any scrubbing accessory needs to be replaced every now and then and kept dry after using. Bacteria can easily grow there.