Taking a bath is a timeless ritual that offers relaxation, comfort, and a sense of rejuvenation. However, nothing can spoil the experience more than bathwater that turns lukewarm or cold too quickly. Whether you’re soaking to soothe tired muscles, unwind after a long day, or simply enjoy some personal time, keeping your bath water warm is essential to maximise your enjoyment. In this guide, we’ll explore several practical tips and techniques to ensure that your bath stays warm, allowing you to bask in comfort for as long as you desire.

1. Preheat Your Bathtub

Before filling your bathtub, take a moment to warm it up. Run hot water over the surface of the tub for a couple of minutes to bring the material to a comfortable temperature. Cold tub surfaces can quickly draw heat from the water, leading to rapid cooling. By preheating, you minimise this heat loss and help maintain a warmer bath for a longer period.

2. Start with Extra Hot Water

When filling the tub, begin with water that’s slightly hotter than your ideal bath temperature. While it may feel too hot initially, the water will cool down to your preferred temperature as you adjust and settle in. This approach gives you a buffer against the inevitable cooling that occurs during your bath.

3. Use a Bath Cover

A bath cover is a simple yet effective tool to help keep your bath water warm. These covers, usually made of plastic or wood, can be placed over the portion of the tub you’re not occupying, such as the area near your feet. This reduces the exposed surface area of the water, limiting heat loss and allowing your bath to stay warmer for longer. Bath covers work similarly to hot tub covers, which are designed to retain heat when the tub is not in use.

4. Incorporate Bubble Bath or Bath Oils

Adding a bubble bath or bath oils to your water not only enhances the bathing experience with soothing scents and skin-nourishing ingredients but also helps to keep the water warm. The bubbles act as a thermal layer, trapping heat beneath the surface and slowing down the cooling process. Bath oils create a thin insulating layer on the surface of the water, reducing evaporation and heat loss.

5. Utilise Hot Stones

For those who want to take their bath to the next level, hot stones are an excellent option. Made from basalt, a volcanic rock known for its heat retention properties, hot stones can be warmed in the oven and then placed in the bath. These stones release heat slowly, providing a continuous source of warmth throughout your soak. Adding a few stones at intervals can help maintain the water temperature and extend your bath time comfortably.

6. Keep the Bathroom Warm

The ambient temperature in your bathroom plays a significant role in how quickly your bathwater cools. If the room is chilly, the water will lose heat more rapidly. To combat this, consider using a space heater to warm up the bathroom before and during your bath. Ensure the heater is placed safely away from the tub. Lighting candles can also create a relaxing ambiance while adding a little warmth to the room.

7. Close Doors and Windows

Drafts are the enemy of a warm bath. Even a small draft can cause your bathwater to cool down faster than expected. Make sure all doors and windows in your bathroom are closed to prevent cold air from entering. This also helps trap steam and warmth in the room, creating a more comfortable bathing environment.

8. Top Up with Hot Water

If you’re planning a long soak, your water will eventually cool. Simply top up your bath with hot water as needed. You may drain a little of the cooled water first or just add hot water in small amounts periodically. Swirling the water with your hand helps distribute the heat evenly.

9. Improve Bathroom Insulation

Proper insulation makes a significant difference in maintaining bathwater temperature. If your bathroom feels cold or drafty, consider improving insulation by installing double-glazed windows, adding weather stripping around the door, or laying down a plush bath mat. Underfloor heating is another excellent option for keeping the space warm and cosy.

10. Use a Shower Curtain or Tub Door

If your bathtub has a shower curtain or glass door, keep it closed during your bath. This traps steam and heat inside the bathing area, preventing rapid cooling. Closing a shower curtain fully creates a warm cocoon around the tub, while a glass door works similarly by maintaining a heated micro-environment.

Conclusion

There’s nothing more luxurious than a long, warm bath—especially when you use the right techniques to keep the water hot for longer. By preheating your tub, using hot stones, closing drafts, and improving insulation, you can elevate your bathing experience into a relaxing, spa-like retreat. Remember, the perfect bath is a combination of ideal water temperature, calming atmosphere, and a warm, inviting environment.

Explore our wide range of walk-in baths and find the perfect fit for enhanced comfort, accessibility, and warmth.