Whether it’s adding a few extra minutes to your shower in the morning or relaxing in a hot bubble bath after work, there’s no better place to beat the winter chill than in your bathroom. If you’re already experiencing sub-zero temperatures or are just dreading its arrival, it’s time to face the facts- winter is right around the corner. If you’re considering a remodel or are looking to add a few luxuries to your bathroom this winter, here are some of our favorite cold-weather bathroom accessories and fixtures.
Heated Floors
If your toes curl at the thought of scampering across your frigid tile floor after a hot shower or bath, radiant-heat floors are the perfect solution. Typically manufactured as an electric heat mat that’s installed before putting in tile, heated floors are something to consider when remodeling your home- especially if you live in an area that experiences long bouts of cold in the winter. Besides keeping your feet warm as you exit the shower or bath, heated floors can actually help you cut down on your energy usage and save money on your monthly heating bill- just make sure you’re installing hydronic floors.
Heated Towel Rack
Do you love the warmth of clothes and towels fresh out of the dryer? With a heated towel rack, you can experience that same comfort and warmth every time you step out of the shower or bath. While heated floors or a fireplace in the bathroom are luxuries that will set you back, heated towel racks are a luxury that won’t require you to rip up your floor or invest thousands of dollars into your home. They’re easy to install, easy to find, and typically can be found for under $500. So, if you’re tired of cold towels pressing against your skin, install a heated towel rack and say hello to the comfort of warm towels.
Barrel Sauna
Whirlpool tubs are nice, but barrel saunas are even nicer. Although barrel saunas are technically intended to be installed outdoors, we’ll include it on the list as saunas go hand-in-hand with spas. Plus, you can always install a traditional sauna adjacent to your shower or tub if you prefer to enjoy your sauna indoors. While it would surely get the most use during the blustery winter season, a sauna is a year-round luxury that can add value to your home. Additionally, saunas come with their own set of health benefits- saunas can boost your immune system, detox your system, and help relax you from head to toe.
Fireplace in the Bathroom
Although fireplaces are traditionally found in living rooms, dens, and bedrooms, the idea of soaking in a bathtub while a fire glows nearby is gaining popularity. While a wood-burning fireplace in the bathroom may seem like it’s reserved for the ritziest of hotel rooms, it’s something you can easily add into the floorplan of your home if you have control over its design. If you’re purchasing a pre-owned home, don’t worry- there are plenty of gas and electric fireplaces available on the market that can be nestled into an unused corner. No matter what you decide, a bathroom fireplace is a premier bathroom luxury.
Bath Warmer
If you enjoy taking especially long baths, you’re likely frustrated when the water gets cold. While draining some of the colder water and replacing it with hot water is one way to go, don’t you with there was an eco-friendly alternative? Now, there is. Warm On pebbles are sensor-fitted, heat-radiating artificial stones that will maintain the same water temperature for a set amount of time. So, whether you’re taking a ten minute bath or indulging in a half-hour soak, the water will stay the same temperature from start to finish.