Let’s be real—between work, kids, errands, and everything else on your plate, carving out “me time” can feel like trying to find a unicorn in the laundry pile. But you don’t have to book a pricey spa day or leave the house to reset. A little DIY home spa magic can do wonders for your mood, skin, and sanity.
Here’s how to build a relaxing self-care routine right in your own bathroom—and the best products to help you do it.
Set the mood first
Before you even touch a face mask or run a bath, get your space in the right headspace. Dim the lights. Light a candle. Cue up your “leave me alone” playlist.
Try this:
- Yankee Candle, Calm and Quiet Place – This relaxing scent has notes of gentle jasmine, warm amber musk and a whisper of patchouli. It smells like a fresh spa day without being overpowering.
- Echo Dot with Alexa – Ask her to play “relaxing spa music” and pretend you’re at a five-star resort.
Start with a soak
If you’re lucky enough to have a tub, a DIY home spa day is the perfect time to use it. A warm bath can ease sore muscles, calm your mind, and make you feel like an actual human again.
Try this:
- Dr Teal’s Foaming Bath with Epsom Salt (Lavender) – Affordable, smells amazing, and makes the bath feel fancy.
- Herbivore Botanicals Coconut Milk Bath Soak – A splurge, but it leaves your skin so soft it’s ridiculous.
No tub? No problem. Use a luxe shower steamer for a similar effect.
Try this:
- Vicks VapoShower Shower Bombs – Menthol-y and great for clearing your head.
Show your skin some love
Post-bath is prime time to exfoliate and hydrate.
Try this:
- Tree Hut Shea Sugar Scrub (Moroccan Rose) – Smells like you’re at a spa, not scrubbing your knees in the shower.
- Aveeno Daily Moisturizing Body Lotion – Fast-absorbing and great for dry, stressed-out skin.
And don’t forget your face—it needs the TLC, too.
Try this:
- Aztec Secret Indian Healing Clay – Mix with apple cider vinegar and feel your pores tighten in the best way.
- The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 – Lightweight hydration that won’t break the bank.
Finish with a mini mani-pedi
Your DIY home spa wouldn’t be complete without some focused attention on your hands and feet. Just a little nail shaping, cuticle care, and polish can make you feel polished too.
Try this:
- Sally Hansen Instant Cuticle Remover – A total game-changer if your cuticles are more “crunchy” than “cute.”
- Olive & June Nail Polish – Long-lasting, mom-proof polish in the prettiest shades.
Add a calming final touch
Before you slip back into “mom mode,” wrap things up with a few quiet minutes to yourself. Sip some tea. Do a few stretches. Lock the door for five more minutes. You earned it.
Try this:
- Traditional Medicinals Cup of Calm Tea – Great for winding down before bed.
- Gaiam Essentials Yoga Mat – Use it for light stretching or just to lay on the floor in peace.
The bottom line?
You don’t need a full day or fancy spa to treat yourself. With a few affordable products and some boundaries around your time (yes, you’re allowed to lock the bathroom door), you can create a mini oasis that helps you feel refreshed, even if chaos is waiting on the other side.
Ready to plan your next self-care night? Light that candle and start soaking. You deserve it.