If you’re not a bath person, you haven’t been doing it right. As reliable as a hot cup of tea, a long, relaxing soak in the tub is one of life’s purest pleasures - even thinking about stepping into warm water, filled with bubble bath and surrounded by candles, is enough to bring those tension levels down a notch.
Want to take your bath game to the next level? This is where the best bubble baths, bath oils and salts come in. Not only do they treat your limbs in a cocktail of soothing and hydrating ingredients, but they often feature calming essential oils to slow down your mind too (a winning combination before your head hits the pillow). Whether you’re treating yourself or looking for an indulgent bath and body gift, these are the bathtime luxuries we love.
By Alice Hamilton, 12 November 2021
How we choose the best bubble baths, salts and oils
Whether you’re looking for something to help you drift off to sleep, soothe weary muscles or wash away fatigue, we’ve tested a range of bubble baths, salts and oils to find the best out there for you to splash your cash on. We called upon our in-house beauty experts for their go-to picks and, as always, your 5-star reviews play an important part too.
Perfect Night's Sleep Bath Foam, £21.90
We could all do with a better night’s kip and this calming bath foam helps us do just that. Blended with softening marshmallow and coconut oil as well as soothing aloe and sweet almond oil, it’s a real treat for your mind and body. The magic lies in the Perfect Night’s Sleep fragrance - a blend of 16 essential oils to help you relax and send you off into a restful slumber.
The hype: “If you are having trouble sleeping, draw yourself a warm bath and add the relaxing aromas of Neom’s Bath Foam that promotes a long and deep rest. Using only natural fragrances, it combines the soothing ingredients of aloe and sweet almond oil with marshmallow and coconut oil as well as English lavender, sweet basil & jasmine and 16 other essential oils.” - Evening Standard
Pomegranate Noir Bath Oil, £48
One of Jo Malone London’s best-loved concoctions, the scent of Pomegranate Noir rising from a steamy bath is the ultimate mood. With hints of rich fruit, white flowers and spicy woods, a few drops will transform your bathroom into your very own spa. Pour a small amount into warm running water for a 5* bathtime that’ll leave skin silky-soft.
The hype: “This is my second bottle of bath oil - amazing. I have been using this scent for years, I have the cologne and the body lotion, but this is such a treat for anyone who loves bath time. Your skin smells wonderful and so does your home. Next purchase will be a candle.” - Customer review
Lavender Foaming Bath, £27
Wind down at the end of a stressful day by slipping into a bath of foamy lavender bubbles - not only does it feel like pure bliss, but it should help slow a racing mind and lead you into a restful slumber too. We’re big fans of the subtle lavender scent which lingers on skin long after you step out of the bath. If you like your bubble bath extra bubbly, this is an excellent choice - a few drops is all you need to create a deliciously foamy soak.
The hype: “Love this product, a little poured under running water goes a long way and makes loads of bubbles. The lavender smell is very subtle and I love that it is very soft on my skin. One of very few bubble baths that doesn't upset my skin.” - Anne, customer review
De-Stress Muscle Bath & Shower Oil, £49
Aromatherapy Associates' bath oils are a classic for a reason - you really can't get much better if you're after silky skin and heavenly scents. The De-Stress blend is one of our favourites - loaded with 100% natural plant extracts including rosemary, ginger, lavender and black pepper essential oils, it gives sore muscles the love and care they deserve. Whether used after an intensive workout or just a hectic day, a capful will help ease stiffness and lift your mood.
The hype: “Incredible smell, I’m obsessed. The oil goes a long way, so you only need a small amount. Best thing I like about it is that the smell stays on your skin for hours later.” - Steph, customer review