With a little thought and effort, a bathroom can be transformed into a place that’s for so much more than just … going to the bathroom. This spot has the potential to be your ultimate room for a little R and R.

• Throw away unwanted (or expired) items
  When it comes to food, most of us are on top of the expiration dates—throwing away anything even remotely out of date. However, with toiletries and other personal care items, we’re not always so quick to part with them. Do a thorough examination of your medicine cabinet and personal items, and throw away anything expired or that you no longer use. This can free up some space for new items you can pamper yourself with.

• Stock up on spa treatments
  Luckily, you can find most items you pay good money for at the spa for less at your local drug store. Epsom salts, essential oils, and exfoliating scrubs are great for pampering yourself, relieving tension, and bringing a sense of calm to your bathroom. Just be sure to test any new products on a small area of skin first to avoid irritation. Knowing you have these types of items on hand, you’ll be much more likely to take a little extra time out of your day to treat yourself.



• Think soft and plush, not sterile
  Because it’s not necessarily a room we spend a lot of time in, many people don’t think of the bathroom as a comfortable space. Adding plush bath mats and investing in soft, high-quality towels can make all the difference. You should also think about including personal touches, like adding baskets to hold magazines and books, hanging framed art on the walls, and placing soap in reusable glass containers instead of plastic ones.

• Add luxurious upgrades
  If you really want to elevate the look and feel of your bathroom, consider renovating your bathtub with modern hardware or purchasing a specialty showerhead. In-shower speakers are also a fun add-on that can be relatively inexpensive. These upgrades may not be for everybody, but they are a solid investment if you’re going for indulgence. Plants and other greenery will also enhance the spa-like quality, especially eucalyptus, which can be hung inside the shower to aid in congestion relief.