How to Make Your Bathroom Feel Like a Spa

When describing your rental bathroom, "spa-like" and "personal sanctuary" are likely not the first words that come to mind. The bathroom of your dreams may be a full remodel away, but by taking cues from spas and saunas, you can decorate your way to a more relaxing space. Grab a Turkish towel and some eucalyptus—it's time to teach your bathroom how to chill out.

Go Green

This bathroom from our long floating shelf tutorial is channeling the Turkish baths in multiple ways: those gorgeous tiles (try peel-and-stick options for a temporary punch of style), that tasseled fouta towel, and the forest of houseplants surrounding the tub.

Brush Up

No at-home spa is complete without the tools of the trade. Invest in a bath brush, loofah or natural sea sponge that can double as decor. In this bathroom from Stadshem, these essentials are hung on the wall so they're always within reach.

Use Natural Scents

To imitate the aromatherapy room at the sauna, just introduce some fresh eucalyptus, which can be found at the florist or even a local bodega. Some recommend tying a bundle to the shower head so the steam will carry the sinus-clearing aroma through the whole room. In this Brooklyn bathroom featured on Design Sponge, just a couple branches are enough to scent the small space.

Try This Tile Trick

You may not be able to cover your whole bathroom in Turkish tile, but you can get the look by choosing a similarly patterned shower curtain, such as the one above from Urban Outfitters ($49). Bathmats, rugs and wall art can all replicate the intricate designs of tile—while still letting you make this month's rent.

Toss in the Towel(s)

Whatever you choose to call it—a Turkish towel, a fouta, a hammam towel, a peshtemal—a hand-woven linen or cotton towel is a necessity for any spa-evoking bathroom. In this Austin Abode, a fringed rug carries the spa style throughout the small space.

Top It Off

Rest a wooden caddy across the top of your tub for holding books, candles and a cup of refreshing mint tea. The reclaimed wood one above is from Peg and Awl, but you can also DIY one following the instructions on Ella Claire Inspired.

Introduce a Side-Table Stool

There's something about placing a small wooden stool next to the bathtub that feels luxurious. And if you use it to hold a washcloth or your shampoo, it also serves a practical purpose.

Choose a Better Bathmat

The second you swap in a wooden slatted bathmat for your dingy old fabric one, your powder room will start to feel much more spa-like. Try this inexpensive option from World Market (from $25), or see some other options.

Want to learn how to decorate your bathroom to match your home decor personality? Take our quiz to determine your style.