Soaking in a bathtub is one of the best ways to unwind, relieve stress and even reduce pain. Unfortunately, with modern homes getting smaller and smaller, not everyone has the space to install a bathtub in their bathroom. If this is your case, this doesn’t necessarily mean that you can’t enjoy a relaxing bath in a tub, especially with the introduction of portable folding bath products on the market. These portable baths can be set up anywhere, giving you the flexibility to enjoy a bath at your convenience.
What Is a Foldable Bathtub?
As its name suggests, a foldable bathtub is a tub that folds up and can be easily stored. It is comfortable, easy to use, and aesthetically pleasing. Some models come with an insulated top piece that you can use to enclose your body and keep the water warm. Different foldable bathtubs will have different dimensions, but they are often big enough to accommodate people of various heights. When folded, these tubs are just a few centimeters thick, making them easy to store against a wall, under cabinets or even inside a closet.
Benefits of a Foldable Bathtub
Convenience
A foldable bathtub can be used anywhere, anytime. It not only allows you to enjoy a relaxing hot water bath in a limited bathroom area but it can also be used in your outdoor space as a mini plunge pool when the weather is warm.
Health Benefits
A warm water bath is considered one of the best ways to relax your body and mind. Research has shown that warm water can relieve stress and ease the mind. Relaxing in a warm water bath is also an effective way to soothe body pain. So, having a warm bath in your foldable bathtub will not only help release the pressure on your mind, but also the pressure on your muscles.
Cost
Aside from all the benefits, a portable folding bath is affordable too. You won’t have to break the bank to get one for yourself. Plus, since these tubs don’t require any kind of installation, you will save money on this aspect as well. Nowadays, you can find a wide range of foldable bathtubs available on the market with varying specifications and features – all at prices that can fit your budget.
How to Choose a Foldable Bathtub?
Here are the most important factors to consider when looking for the right portable folding bath.
Material
You’ll find foldable bathtubs in a range of materials – from thermal to plastic. If you are a person who cares about the environment, you’ll want to choose materials that are Eco-friendly to reduce any kind of harm or damage to nature. Assess your options and pick the best option for your needs.
Durability
When shopping for your bathtub, you’ll come across many cheap portable models that are quite flimsy and aren’t as durable as they should be. In order to choose a foldable bathtub that is durable, check the maximum weight capacity. You also, won’t want to get a tub that is too wobbly or flimsy. Always go for quality products that will last long enough and you can use them for many years to come.
Maintenance
To be able to keep using your foldable bathtub over and over again, you’ll need to maintain it. Choosing a foldable bathtub that is easy to clean will make your life much easier as you won’t have to waste too much time cleaning the tub every time.
How to Use a Foldable Bathtub?
When you are ready for a bath, just unfold the tub and set it up in the desired location. Fill it with warmer water and get in the tub. Some foldable bathtubs come with an insulated cover to keep the water warmer for longer. You can also use the cover as a stand for your laptop or tablet so you can watch movies while enjoying your spa. When you are done, just drain the tub, fold it and store it until the next bath time.
Enhance your bathtub experience by lighting up some candles and adding calming essential oils to the water. Bathing with essential oils is a wonderful combination. The relaxing properties of hot water compliment the effects of well-chosen relaxing essential oil.
One of the most popular calming essential oils to try is lavender. Well known for their calming effect, lavender essential oils also help improve circulation, which is great for sore muscles. Add this essential oil to a nighttime bath for a super relaxing experience that’ll prime you for sleep. For sore muscles try frankincense. It’s an essential oil with a woody aroma and is well known for its anti-inflammatory properties. Add it to your bath to keep your skin soft and supple. For times when you have a cold or are feeling sick, add some eucalyptus essential oil to your bathwater. This oil is considered an expectorant, which means it helps loosen mucus, and studies have suggested that it also boosts ceramides, helping to hydrate the skin and soothe discomfort associated with skin irritations.
Note that you should never add essential oil to the tub straight from the bottle. Oil and water don’t mix, which means the oil droplets can end up on your skin, leaving you open to irritation and even a burning sensation. You need to mix the essential oil with a carrier oil first. You can also find oil blends that are already carrier-combined and created specifically for a certain use.