Taking a hot shower is already a calming and pleasant experience, but what if you could make it feel like a luxurious spa treatment? With just a basic wooden clothespin and your favorite essential oil, you can transform your everyday shower into a haven of relaxation and wellness.

The Clothespin Essential Oil Shower Hack

To get started, here’s what you’ll need:

• Wooden clothespin (plastic won’t work)
• Your favorite essential oil scent

1. Pick your oil

Not all essential oil brands are created equal. Look for high-quality products that contain only pure plant compounds without any additives or synthetic oils. It’s important to do your research and choose a reputable brand. Here are a few scent suggestions to get you started:

• Lavender: a popular, subtly floral scent known for its sleep-inducing and relaxation properties.
• Roman chamomile: a calming scent with a lightly floral and herbal aroma.
• Rose: known for reducing anxiety and creating a familiar, comforting scent.
• Vetiver: a smoky, woody, and sweet scent that can relax the mind and uplift the mood.
• Citrus oils (orange, grapefruit, lemon): these refreshing scents can give your shower a burst of energy.
• Feel free to experiment with different oils or even mix two or three scents that appeal to you.

2. Apply the oil

Take your wooden clothespin and apply a few drops of your chosen oil onto both sides. You don’t need to drench the clothespin since you’ll need to reapply the oil periodically, depending on how often you use the shower.

3. Clip it to your showerhead

Now, clip the clothespin to the top edge of your showerhead where it won’t get wet. As you take your shower, the steam from the hot water will release the scent into your shower, creating a spa-like diffuser effect. If the clothespin doesn’t fit on your showerhead, you can clip it onto your shower curtain or any other area where the steam can reach it without getting wet.

4. Enjoy the heavenly aroma

While essential oils may not have scientifically proven healing properties, they can definitely improve your mood, help you relax, and give you a boost of energy. The pleasant scent can encourage deep breathing, which has its own set of health benefits, such as reduced stress, improved digestion, and lower blood pressure. So take a few deliberate breaths and embrace the soothing shower experience with your favorite essential oil. Whether you prefer morning showers to start your day or evening showers to unwind and de-stress before bed, this simple trick can have a positive impact on the rest of your day or night.

However, it’s important to note that essential oils can cause side effects such as rashes, allergic reactions, respiratory issues, and headaches in some individuals. If you experience any of these symptoms, stop using the oils immediately. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should also avoid using essential oils as there hasn’t been enough research on their effects in these situations. Keep in mind that essential oils can be harmful to children and pets as well, so use them with caution and never ingest them.

More Tips for a Pleasant-Smelling Bathroom

If you want to create a pleasant atmosphere in your bathroom beyond the shower, here are a few additional tips:

Clear drains once a month

To prevent unpleasant odors caused by gunk buildup in your drains, try this simple method. Mix baking soda and vinegar and pour the mixture down the drain. Let it sit for a few hours, then rinse it away with boiling water. The baking soda neutralizes odors, while the vinegar’s bubbling action helps loosen any debris, allowing it to be washed away.

Check the towels

Washcloths, bath towels, and hand towels can develop a musky scent if not cleaned regularly. Make it a habit to wash and replace them on a weekly basis or more frequently if needed. If your towels are no longer soft or have a lingering smell after being washed, it’s definitely time to invest in new ones.

Clean your bathroom regularly

Keeping your bathroom clean is essential for maintaining a fresh and inviting scent. Wipe down surfaces, spot-clean any visible dirt and grime, and don’t forget to scrub the toilets, bathtubs, sinks, and tiles. Pay attention to the bathroom grout as well, as cleaning it with a toothbrush and soapy water can make a big difference in how your bathroom smells. If you’re short on time, focus on wiping the counters, cleaning the toilet, and ensuring that the shower, sink, and bathtub are dry and free from mildew.

Ensure air circulation

Excess moisture in the bathroom can lead to unpleasant odors. After showers or baths, open windows or turn on the exhaust fan to allow the excess humidity to escape. This helps prevent the growth of mold and mildew, which are major culprits behind unpleasant smells.

Add plants

Plants not only add visual appeal to your bathroom but can also invigorate it with their natural scents. Choose plants that can thrive in the amount of natural light your bathroom receives. Another option is to place a dried eucalyptus bouquet beneath the showerhead. The steam will draw out the soothing aroma, giving your bathroom a wonderful, opulent scent.

Use a diffuser

If you prefer a consistent and long-lasting fragrance in your bathroom, consider using a diffuser. Fill it with your favorite essential oil to create a pleasant and fresh atmosphere. Scents like lavender, mint, eucalyptus, and lemongrass are known for their strong aroma that can mask unpleasant odors and promote relaxation. However, feel free to choose any oil that you find appealing, such as citrus, cedarwood, cardamom, frankincense, jasmine, vanilla, cinnamon, or rose.

By incorporating these tips, you can transform your shower and bathroom into a serene oasis of relaxation and aromatic bliss. Enjoy the benefits of a pleasant-smelling and inviting space that enhances your well-being and elevates your everyday routine.