Take the dread out of climbing out of the bath or shower, not to mention those midnight trips to the loo, with these simple winter warmers…
Step on to something comfy – Upgrade to a plush bath mat to keep you snug underfoot. Choose one that’s soft, comfy, is absorbent and has good grip to prevent slips. It also doesn’t have to be a shaggy little rectangle. Think an Oriental-type rug with rich colours that will warm up the look of the whole space. Get one for next to your shower, near the basin and in front of the toilet and bath to ensure that your feet will have zero contact with the cold floor.
Add warmer tones – A crisp white bathroom is beautiful, but it’s not the toastiest place to be. Adding warm colours to your bathroom can really lift its spirits. Think earthy tones or deep autumnal shades. Remember, it doesn’t have to be a permanent colour change. You can introduce colour with a new set of fluffy towels, for instance (patterns can especially cosy up a room) and other warming touches (like copper pipes and taps if you’re feeling especially indulgent).
Be inspired by nature – Blend together natural materials like wood and stone to create a rustic ambience. And add touches of living things such as some potted plants or cheerful fresh flowers in warming colours. Keep toiletries and other essentials in a wooden bowl or wicker basket. Another idea is to swop out the bathroom mirror for a wood-framed one.
Let there be light – Natural light is the simplest lift you can give to any room. So if your bathroom has big windows, open them up. Perhaps even consider a skylight to filter in light while you still enjoy your privacy. When it comes to light fixtures in bathrooms, we tend to gravitate to certain types of ‘characterless’ lights. Get creative by installing a hanging chandelier or pendant light (just work with a licensed electrician who knows all the rules and regulations associated with these types of installations). You can also opt for soft candlelight – like votives in lanterns, floating candles in a glass bowl or scented ones with warming essences such as cinnamon or berries. Make sure that you place them away from anything flammable and don’t leave them unattended.
Turn up the heat – If you are planning a bathroom renovation, then it’s worthwhile to consider underfloor heating. It’s a real space-saver because everything is hidden away underneath the floor. It’s also very effective because heat rises, warming the whole room as well as the floor. Underfloor heating also helps reduce the incidence of damp and mould. Place the heating pads where you’ll do most of the standing in the bathroom, such as in front of the mirror and vanity, where you step out of the bath and shower or where you get dressed. If you don’t have room in your budget for such an expense, talk to your electrician about installing a bathroom-safe heater. Or get your towels nice and toasty with heated rails, which don’t only keep towels warm but also offer background heating (to smaller bathrooms especially). As always, look for the most energy-efficient options. And don’t rule out investing in a bath that retains heat, such as those made from enamelled steel, copper, stone, brass and limestone. While the price tag may be a little hefty, the luxury of warm water, together with the unique appeal of the bath itself, can make for a convincing argument. That and being able to lie there for a little longer as you pore over the latest issue of SA Home Owner magazine of course!
More ‘warming’ bathroom tips – If your bathroom feels chillier than the rest of the house, the windows may be the culprit. Perform a quick test to see if your windows are letting in drafts by putting your hand near the glass and window frame or holding up a piece of tissue around the perimeter (if it moves, you have a leak). Fill or seal around the window to prevent future air flow. Shutters or heavy blinds will also help to insulate the room. Lastly, keep a pair of comfortable slippers in the bathroom to slip on after you climb out of the shower or bath. And invest in a decorative coat hook to hang your dressing gown on. Try to put it up close to your bath or shower so you can grab your gown easily and put it on quickly.
Photo: iStock
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