Some people find Epsom salts (named after the Surrey town) contain magnesium, which helps to soothe tired joints sand muscles, especially after workouts. A cup in the tub is enough (test first, for sensitive skin). Even a short soak can refresh tired legs, especially after a run.
Do not use Epsom salts on broken skin. Avoid for diabetes, kidney disease, eating disorders or low-magnesium diets. Stop if you notice skin irritation, itching, or dizziness.
Epsom salts are better than dead sea salt, from a sea that is literally dying. Despite the name, the area supports 500 million birds (300 species) who rest during migration and many plants, fish and mammals (including leopards and ibex).
You don’t need scent in baths. But if you do, add a few drops of sustainable aromatherapy oils (not for pregnancy/nursing) to a warm bath and swish the water.
Bath Time Safety Tips
Always stand up slowly after baths, and avoid very hot baths if pregnant/nursing or for heart or blood pressure conditions. Avoid slippery bath oils, use non-slip bath mats, and if needed, use a bath seat/bench and grab rails.
Never face indoor plants to gardens, to help stop birds flying into windows. Read of plants to avoid near pets (including lilies and sago palm). Also read about giving dogs baths.
Safety for Baby Baths
- NHS has a 2-minute video by a midwife (never leave a child alone and avoid baby seats that can quickly detach and drown, even in a few centimetres of water).
- Run cold water first (add hot water, testing with wrist or elbow). Keep your baby’s head clear of water.
- Don’t bathe straight after feeds, or if hungry or tired. Avoid baby oils, due to risk of slipping.
- Avoid talcum powder, it’s linked to ovarian cancer and banned in many countries. Don’t use cotton buds to clean baby’s ears (the cause of nearly all infections).
A Simple Tip to Save Bath Water
A bath uses around 150 litres of water, compared to 50 litres for an energy-efficient shower. So just indulge, but have fewer baths! A family of two adults and two children that switches from one full bath each week to a shower, saves 400 litres of water each week – 20,000 litres a year!
If you use ‘bath water diverters’ that recycle bath water into the garden, choose unscented biodegradable bath products (even sea salt could harm plants).
