More than just a bath

Decorating a bathroom is as important as beautifying any other part of the house

Our daily bath or shower can become a luxurious, revitalising experience when the right accessories are used. A bath involves more than just the right kind of soap or shower gel, and it is not something one merely jumps in and out of.

To create the perfect atmosphere, everything from the wall fittings to the towels, shower curtains and loofahs are vital. Decorating a bathroom is as important as decorating any other part of the house. The bathroom is the place where one spends the most time in solitude.

One of the easiest ways to make a bathroom attractive is to add a colourful shower curtain. There are many prints and fabrics available featuring, for example, sunflowers on a clear curtain, Victorian themes with frills, basket weave, lace and ribbons, hand-painted patterns, colourful terrycloth, psychedelic prints and cartoon characters.

Rugs placed near the tub or washbasin make a bathroom look inviting. Toe-tickling rugs in various sizes and prints matching the curtains enhance the colour-scheme.

Most women want their bathrooms to be colour coordinated with the tiling. A grey bathroom often has dark towels and accessories. Anything can be made attractive by adding potted plants, curtains, candles, pot-pourri boxes, paintings or glass jars.

Containers for cosmetics and toothbrushes are available in unusual themes. Mock-croc leather tumblers with matching toothbrush holder, wastebaskets, soap dishes, soap dispensers, tissue holders, standing mirrors and vanity trays add glamour to any bathroom.

Tiger prints, flowers, plain tumblers and baskets in dark colours, frosted glass, chrome finish and tadpole prints are among the designs that will transform a plain bathroom. Wood also makes a stylish setting. It creates warmth and elegance. Wall cabinets, towel shelves, storage hampers and vanity shelves are important parts of bathroom furniture.

To make a shower really enjoyable it is important to have the right accessories. A bath should not be a chore, but rather a rejuvenating experience. Bath sponges are fun for children and adults, and they are a great soap saver since a small amount of gel can make a lot of lather.

Whether they are made of net sponge or 100 per cent natural vegetable fibre, they are effective in exfoliating the skin and stimulating the circulation. Sponges are available in a variety of shapes and sizes, making it easy to reach those awkward areas.

Shower caps can be indispensable. They keep the hair out of the way, reducing the blow-drying time. Tub and shower caddies are available in a multitude of designs and make everything accessible.

Certain tub caddies have adjustable book rests for comfortable reading while soaking. For added comfort there are water-resistant bath pillows made of terrycloth.

They are attached to the bathtub and are easily removed when not required. For those who want to relax, there are eye masks made of plastic and containing a lubricating liquid. The mask reduces eye puffiness and relaxes the eye muscles.

For those who lead busy lives, these simple things can make bathing a relaxing and enjoyable experience.