How to Convert a Bath into a Spa
It's a stressed-out world and people often visit spas or convert their own bath spaces into private spas to relieve that stress. The cost for such a conversion varies; but the National Kitchen and Bath Association reports bathroom remodeling jobs generally average between $6,500 and $11,600. However, turning a bathroom into a spa need not require an expensive replacement of tub and shower, the addition of elegant fixtures or enclosures or the installation of high-end flooring. Simple, inexpensive changes can be quite effective in creating an inviting personal oasis. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Screwdriver
- Drywall compound
- Putty
- Sandpaper
- Silicone caulking
- Ammonia-based cleaner
- Masking tape
- Newspapers or painting tarp
- Latex paint
- Paint brush/rollers
- Artwork
- Plants or flowers
- Matching accessories
- Baskets and jars
- Plush towels and bath linens
- Plush robe
- Aromatherapy bath products
- Candles
- Music
Instructions
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Remove everything from the bathroom that is not a permanent fixture, including switch plates and towel rods. Patch any areas that need it with drywall compound, putty and sandpaper. Use silicone caulking around the tub and where the counter top meets the wall. Clean the walls and woodwork with a mild ammonia-based cleaner to remove residue from beauty and bath products. Tape around items like mirrors and light fixtures; protect surfaces with newspapers or painting tarps.
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Use a durable, latex-based paint to paint the space in soothing colors from the palette of nature. Neutral brown might be paired with soothing blues and greens or pale lilac for a pleasing effect. Be sure to refrain from steaming up the room for two to three days after painting.
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Decorate the freshly painted walls with artwork you find peaceful. Place live or silk plants on windowsills, shelves or atop the toilet tank. Buy accessories that match your new décor like a new wastebasket or toothbrush holder.
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Organize the space to minimize clutter in an attractive way. Keep items like curling irons and hairdryers out of sight, if possible. Use baskets and jars to hold necessities and to display items like shells or homemade bath products.
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Purchase plush bath mats, matching towels and a fluffy robe. Bath pillows and gel eye masks assist in total relaxation during a nice, long soak in the tub. You might even consider buying a towel warmer to really pamper yourself.
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Splurge on spa-quality bath products such as soaps, oils, salts, scrubs and masks or make your own. Aromatherapy products may help to relieve stress; try products made with mint, chamomile, ylang ylang or lavender essential oils.
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Set the mood with candles and soothing music. Make sure you have proper lighting around the mirror, though and keep the CD player away from the tub or sink areas. You might consider the following musical selections: nature sounds, classical, Asian-inspired, Native American or Celtic.
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Tips & Warnings
The best time to bathe is when the stomach is empty.
Baths deprive you of body fluids; drinking alcohol before or during a bath increases dehydration.
