This Is How Long You Should Soak In The Bath

June 19, 2024

We all know the saying: everything in moderation, even bath time! There's nothing quite like sinking into a warm tub after a grueling day, feeling your muscles relax and the worries of the world slip away. The warm water envelops you like a cozy hug!

While some find it hard to resist the allure of a long soak—an opportunity to indulge and bask in serenity—others prefer a quick dip. If you lean towards the quick-dip camp, you might wonder if you're reaping all the benefits of your bath. Perhaps you're even considering extending your soak to maximize those benefits (or because there's a $15 CBD bath bomb bobbing in there and you don't want to calculate the cost per minute—yikes!).

If this sounds like you, hang tight! We'll spill the beans on the perfect bath duration to make every minute count. And for those on team marathon soak, wondering if you've overstayed your watery welcome, stick around—it's all covered!

How long should you really chill in the bath to make it count?

First things first, how long is long enough? According to dermatologists, the optimal soak time is around 15-30 minutes. Studies suggest that taking a 30-minute bath can significantly reduce stress from conditions like PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder), anxiety, and other related issues.

But a major online bathroom retailer in the UK may have pinpointed the precise optimal bath duration: 22 minutes.

After gathering insights from 20 participants—half male and half female—the Victorian Plumbing experiment in 2023 concluded that this timeframe strikes the perfect balance between relaxation, sleep quality, and hydration.

While 22 minutes is generally considered the optimal bath length, the same experiment revealed that 21 minutes is the magic number for maximizing relaxation—especially if you're multitasking with your phone. Yes, surprisingly, those who spent 21 minutes scrolling through their phones during their bath reported feeling the most relaxed afterward.

Following closely behind were those who did absolutely nothing (if you're looking for ways to pass the time in the tub, here are things to do in the bath to combat boredom). And not only that, but the experiment found that extending your bath to 27 minutes can lead to the ultimate sleep-inducing experience—but only if you spend it engrossed in a good book. Yes, bookworms rejoice!

The prime soak time findings from Victoria Plumping

The study also revealed that men and women have different optimal bath lengths for achieving a good night’s sleep. Women tend to benefit most from a 30-minute soak, whereas men find their optimal sleep after just 19 minutes in the tub.

Based on both expert advice and findings from the Victorian Plumbing study, it's reasonable to conclude that spending between 15 to 30 minutes in the tub seems to hit the sweet spot for a relaxing soak.

Why should you care about your soak's timeline?

According to dermatologist Laurence Meyer, featured in Scientific American, soaking in the tub can hydrate your skin—but there’s a catch. Your skin is like a sponge, soaking up water to a certain point. Stay in hot water too long, though, and you'll turn from hydrated to dried out, like a sponge left out in the sun.

The trick? Time your exit. Get out while the going's good, and slather on some CBD lotion or oil. This seals in the moisture your skin soaked up during your bath, leaving you smooth and hydrated instead of parched and flaky. You'll know it's time to hop out of the bath when the water cools down or your skin begins to wrinkle and prune.

Paying attention to your bath time isn't just about preventing dry skin or missing out on a zen moment—it's about striking the perfect balance. Whether you prefer a quick dip or a leisurely soak, timing your bath correctly ensures you reap all the soothing benefits without compromising your skin's health.

What if you want to stay in the bath longer?

While 22 minutes is the sweet spot, the maximum time you can spend soaking in the tub varies based on several factors:

Water Temperature: If the water is too hot, you risk overheating, which can lead to dizziness, dehydration, and even fainting. Ideal bath water temperature is around 100-102°F (38-39°C). Staying too long in hotter water can cause your body temperature to rise excessively, which is not safe.

Hydration: Make sure you drink plenty of water before, during, and after your bath. Bathing, especially in hot water, can cause you to sweat and lose fluids, leading to dehydration. Hydration extends to your skin too. Apply a quality moisturizer or bath oil to your skin before and after your soak to keep it hydrated. Or better yet, drop in a moisturizing bath bomb to pamper your skin throughout your extended warm water adventure. This way, you’ll ensure your skin stays soft and nourished from start to finish.

Skin Sensitivity: Prolonged exposure to water can strip your skin of its natural oils, leading to dryness and irritation. This is particularly true if you have sensitive skin.

Health Conditions: If you have certain health conditions, such as cardiovascular issues, spending too much time in a hot bath can put extra strain on your heart.

Looking for a shorter, quicker soak?

If you prefer to keep your tub time under 20 minutes, good news. While a quick soak might not offer the extensive relaxation of a longer session, it can still provide immediate perks. The warm water helps to relax your muscles and alleviate tension, which is perfect after a taxing day or intense workout. Additionally, the heat promotes circulation, helping to ease soreness and improve blood flow.

Beyond the physical benefits, taking a moment to unwind in the bath—even briefly—can have significant mental health advantages. It offers a serene pause in your day, allowing you to decompress, de-stress, and recharge your batteries. This can lead to improved mood and a greater sense of well-being.

How to make your bath time worthwhile regardless of how short or long you stay in the tub

Now, how can you ensure your bath time is worthwhile, no matter how long you spend in it? Cue the CBD bath bomb. Whether you’re dipping in for a quick refresh or luxuriating for longer, adding a CBD Bath Bomb can elevate your experience.

This ball of bliss offers numerous benefits that enhance your bath experience, including skincare perks. Each minute in the tub contributes to your well-being, leaving you relaxed, refreshed, and ready to take on whatever comes next.

Your ultimate bath time companion, whether you're in for a quick 15-minute dip or luxuriating for a full 30: Tub Therapy Soakshow CBD Bath Bomb in Oatmeal & Shea, $15 each with free shipping

Also, don’t forget the ambiance! Light some candles, play your favorite tunes, and maybe keep a glass of your favorite drink nearby, especially if you’re planning to soak for a while.

Our verdict?

Like the saying goes, everything in moderation—including bath time. Keeping your soak between 15 to 30 minutes strikes the perfect balance for reaping the benefits without feeling like a wrinkled prune.

Whether you're a quick dipper or a leisurely soaker, sticking to this range ensures you get the most out of your tub time without turning into a prune or boiling over. Just remember to hydrate and enjoy every bubbly minute of your well-deserved relaxation!