The Ultimate Home Spa Basket: Indulging In Relaxation

There are endless possibilities for what to put in a home spa basket, and it's a great way to show someone you care. You can customise the contents to suit the interests of the recipient, and it's a fun gift to put together.

A spa basket is a great way to encourage self-care and pampering, and it doesn't have to be expensive. You can buy commercial items or make your own bath products. It's a good idea to include a mix of indulgent treats and practical items.

Some popular items to include are: bath bombs, soaps, slippers, loofahs, bath salts, sleep masks, candles, bath trays, face masks, wine, and skincare products like moisturisers and face oils. You could also add some snacks and drinks, a book or magazine, aromatherapy products, and haircare products.

Get creative and have fun with it!

Soaps, bath bombs, and other bath products

The bath is the centrepiece of any at-home spa experience, so it's worth including a variety of bath products to ensure your recipient can create a luxurious, romantic, and idyllic experience.

Bath Bombs

Widely beloved but often overlooked, bath bombs are a fun way to upgrade your bath time routine. They add a pop of colour and create an effervescent experience.

Soaps

Although they may seem old-fashioned, a bar of soap can be a luxurious and romantic addition to a spa experience. They offer a more authentic feel than body wash, with an elevated scent and improved lather.

Bath Salts

Bath salts are perfect for exfoliating and reviving tired muscles. They can also be great for clearing sinus congestion and early stages of colds and flu.

Bubble Bath and Bath Oil

Bubble bath and bath oil are great additions to a spa basket, helping to create a relaxing and indulgent experience.

Face Masks

Face masks are a great way to give skin some extra TLC. Look for masks that contain natural ingredients such as cactus flower, lavender, and other moisturising agents.

Body Scrubs and Exfoliating Sponges

Body scrubs and exfoliating sponges help to remove dead skin cells and improve circulation. They can be used wet or dry and are usually stored in a humid environment such as a bathroom.

Shampoo, Conditioner, and Body Wash

Shampoo, conditioner, and body wash are essential for any spa experience. Opt for travel-sized bottles so that the recipient can easily pack the basket for a weekend getaway.

Other Ideas

• Shower gel
• Shower cap
• Bathrobe
• Bath tray
• Bath caddy

Candles and essential oils

For essential oils, consider including a variety of scents such as lavender, lemongrass, patchouli, and lime. These oils can be used in a diffuser or added to a warm bath for an aromatic experience. If you want to get creative, you can even make your own scented candles or essential oil blends.

When arranging the candles and essential oils in the basket, place them towards the front so they are easily visible. You can also tie a ribbon around the candles or package the essential oils in a small box for a thoughtful touch. Additionally, consider including matches or a lighter with the candles for convenience.

• ESPA's Restorative Candle, made with their 'hug in a bottle' blend, to restore a sense of inner peace.
• ESPA's Energising Candle with notes of peppermint, eucalyptus, and rosemary to uplift and focus.
• 'Day at the Spa' fragrance oil by CandleScience, which combines lemongrass, black currant, patchouli, and sugarcane for a calming fragrance.
• ThreeKin Warm Hugs Scented Candles, made with natural soy wax and infused with essential oils, offering a relaxing aromatherapy experience.
• Aromatherapy Candle Gift Set with essential oils, including lavender, orange garden, and campfire marshmallows scents, providing a range of aromatic options.

Face masks and moisturisers

For a DIY face mask, you could include natural, plain yoghurt, honey, and turmeric powder. Yoghurt contains lactic acid, which helps to lift away dead skin cells, honey is a great moisturiser, and turmeric is clinically proven to address hyperpigmentation and reduce skin irritation.

If you're looking for a ready-made face mask, there are plenty of options available. For example, the Blanc Therapy Premium Sheet Masks are a great choice for all skin types, as they contain moisturising aloe and vitamins. The New York Biology Dead Sea Mud Mask is another popular option, perfect for reducing pores and combating acne and blackheads.

In terms of moisturisers, it's important to choose one that is suitable for the face, hands, and body. Look for a moisturiser that will leave the skin feeling soft and supple, such as those containing hyaluronic acid or vitamin C.

Body scrubs and sponges

Loofahs and Sponges:

• Natural loofahs made from the loofah plant fibers are traditional exfoliating tools that can be used wet or dry. They are usually stored in humid environments, like bathrooms, and with proper care, they can last for several months.
• Bath sponges, also known as shower poufs or puffs, are soft mesh balls that create a rich lather and gently exfoliate the skin. They come in various colors and sizes and are often sold in packs of 3-6.
• Silicone body scrubbers are a durable, antimicrobial option that gently exfoliates the skin. They are easy to clean, dry quickly, and maintain their effectiveness over time.
• Exfoliating gloves, made from silicone or plastic loofah material, can be effective but run the risk of over-exfoliation if used too frequently. It is recommended to use these no more than twice a week.

Body Scrubs:

• Salt scrubs, such as sea salt or Epsom salt, are great for soothing tired muscles and clearing your head.
• Sugar scrubs, often made with sugar and coconut oil, are a gentle and moisturizing option for the skin.
• Coffee scrubs, like the OGX Smoothing + Coconut Coffee Exfoliating Body Scrub, combine Arabica coffee with coconut oil to moisturize dry skin.
• Oil-based scrubs, such as those containing jojoba oil, sweet almond oil, or sesame oil, help restore moisture to the skin while exfoliating.

When selecting body scrubs, look for natural ingredients like essential oils, lavender, or cactus flower to provide a spa-like experience. You can also create your own body scrubs at home by following online tutorials.

Snacks and drinks

Healthy Treats

If your recipient prefers healthier options, consider adding some nutritious snacks to the basket. This could include snack bars, fruit, or a green smoothie. Dried fruit and nuts are also a great option, providing energy and essential nutrients. You could even include a small jar of honey for a natural sweet treat.

Indulgent Options

For those with a sweet tooth, chocolates and candy can be a delightful addition to the spa basket. You could include a selection of truffles or a box of luxury chocolates. If your recipient enjoys baking, you could also add some cookie or brownie mix, or even a recipe book for them to try out new indulgent treats.

Refreshing Drinks

Offer a variety of drinks to cater to different tastes and preferences. You could include a bottle of wine or champagne for a touch of luxury. For non-alcoholic options, consider herbal teas, fruit-infused water, or fresh fruit juices. If you want to get creative, make some spa-inspired drinks like cucumber and mint-infused water or a refreshing lemonade.

Personalized Choices

Ultimately, the snacks and drinks you choose should reflect the recipient's tastes and preferences. If they have a favorite snack or drink, be sure to include it. You could also add a fun twist by including a new or unique flavor of their favorite treat. For example, if they love chocolate, add a bar of chocolate with an interesting flavor combination, like sea salt and caramel or chili and orange.

Remember, the snacks and drinks you choose should complement the other items in the basket and create a cohesive and relaxing spa experience.

Frequently asked questions