A slipper tub, with its elegant high back and deep basin, is designed for one thing: ultimate relaxation. But the right accessories are what transform this beautiful fixture from a simple bath into a personalized, comfortable, and safe experience. The perfect additions help you customize your soak, address practical needs, and express your personal style, making every bath feel tailored just for you.
This guide walks you through the essential categories of slipper tub accessories. We will cover the non-negotiable safety items, the functional upgrades that boost comfort, and the final decorative touches that pull your whole bathroom look together. Whether you own a classic Mokleba tub or are planning your bathroom, these recommendations will help you build a more functional and inviting space.
Safety Essentials: Your Foundation for Security
Before considering luxury, the first step is ensuring your bathing area is safe. A wet, curved tub surface can be slippery, and the high sides of a slipper tub can make entering and exiting a challenge. Investing in a few key safety products provides peace of mind and prevents accidents.
Non-Slip Solutions for the Tub Floor
Preventing slips inside the tub is the most critical safety measure. You have two main effective options, each with its own benefits.
Adhesive Anti-Slip Strips: These are a popular, low-profile choice. Made from textured vinyl, rubber, or plastic, they have a strong waterproof adhesive that bonds directly to the tub floor. They lie completely flat, which means water doesn't pool underneath, and they are very easy to clean around. High-quality strips from reputable brands can last for years and be removed without damaging your tub's surface.
Removable Bath Mats: A full-coverage bath mat with strong suction cups on the bottom is another excellent option. These mats are often made from rubber, PVC, or thermoplastic materials that provide a grippy surface. They are easy to take out for a thorough cleaning or to switch up your bathroom's look. Look for a mat that is mold-resistant and designed to lay flat without curling at the edges.
How to Choose: If you want a permanent, minimalist solution that's supremely easy to clean, choose adhesive strips. If you prefer something you can remove and wash in the sink or machine, or if you like to change your bathroom accessories seasonally, a removable bath mat is the better fit.
Support for Entering and Exiting
The depth of a slipper tub requires careful movement when getting in and out.
Grab Bars: A properly installed grab bar on the wall adjacent to your tub is one of the best safety investments you can make. It provides a solid, reliable handhold for steadying yourself. For secure installation, it must be mounted directly into the wall studs, not just into drywall or tile with anchors. A stainless steel or coated bar that matches your other bathroom hardware will look built-in and intentional.
Bathtub Step Stools: A dedicated tub stool is a game-changer for ease of use. It reduces the height you need to step over by providing a stable intermediate platform. The best models have a wide, non-slip top surface and rubberized feet that grip the bathroom floor securely. This simple tool can make your tub accessible and comfortable for users of all ages and mobility levels.
Functional Upgrades: Comfort and Convenience
With safety handled, you can focus on accessories that enhance the comfort and practicality of your baths. These items address common needs and make your soaking ritual more enjoyable.
The Perfect Bath Pillow
While the slipper back is designed for reclining, a bath pillow provides crucial neck and head support, allowing your muscles to fully relax. A good bath pillow will have multiple suction cups to hold it firmly in place against the tub's back. Look for pillows filled with quick-drying, mildew-resistant memory foam and covered in a soft, water-resistant fabric. An inflatable pillow is another good option, as it can be adjusted to your preferred firmness and stores away easily.
Tub Trays and Caddies: Your At-Arm's-Reach Hub
A tub tray is arguably the most popular functional accessory for a freestanding tub. It transforms the bathing experience by providing a stable surface.
Versatility: A sturdy tray can hold a book, a tablet, a glass of wine, a cup of tea, or a small snack. Many trays come with built-in grooves, slots, or raised edges to keep your items secure.
Material and Sizing: Bamboo and teak are common choices because they are naturally water-resistant woods. Before purchasing, carefully measure the width of your tub at the point where the tray will rest. Ensure the tray length accounts for any overflow covers or built-in handles. If a full tray doesn't suit your space, consider a corner caddy that suctions to the side of the tub to hold soap, a loofah, or a small candle.
Helpful Tools for Bath Control
Small tools can make a big difference in managing your bath environment.
Bath Thermometer: A floating or digital bath thermometer takes the guesswork out of water temperature. This is especially useful for creating the perfect warm soak or ensuring a safe bath temperature for children.
Handheld Shower Wand (for combo units): If your slipper tub is also a shower, a handheld shower wand on a sliding bar is much more practical than a fixed showerhead. It makes rinsing off and cleaning the tub itself much easier.
Rinsing Bucket or Basin: Keeping a small, stylish basin near the tub is surprisingly handy. It can be used for a quick foot soak, for rinsing hair after a conditioning treatment, or for holding bath toys.
Finishing Touches: Storage, Atmosphere, and Style
The final layer of accessories is about creating atmosphere and solving storage challenges. These elements make your bathroom feel complete, organized, and reflective of your personal taste.
Smart and Stylish Storage Solutions
To avoid clutter on the tub rim or floor, incorporate intentional storage.
Freestanding Ladders or Shelves: A wooden or metal ladder leaned against the wall serves as chic, vertical storage for towels and robes.
Wall-Mounted Shelving: Floating shelves or a wall-mounted cabinet above the toilet or beside the tub offer a place for extra towels, decorative objects, or baskets to hold bath products.
Baskets and Bins: Woven seagrass, wicker, or water-resistant plastic baskets are perfect for grouping items like bath bombs, Epsom salts, extra soap, or cleaning supplies. They keep things accessible while looking tidy.
Lighting for Ambiance
Overhead bathroom lighting is often too harsh for relaxation. Layering in softer light sources is key.
Dimmer Switches: The simplest upgrade is installing a dimmer switch for your primary bathroom lights, allowing you to adjust the brightness to a soft glow.
Water-Resistant String Lights: Battery-operated LED string lights with a waterproof rating can be carefully draped or placed in a glass jar to create a gentle, twinkling effect.
Flameless LED Candles: These provide the warm, flickering light of real candles without any fire risk, worry about drafts, or melted wax. They are safe to use on tub trays and shelves.
Textiles and Personal Decor
Plush, Absorbent Textiles: Invest in thick, high-quality bath towels, a soft bath mat, and a comfortable robe. These textiles add a layer of comfort and luxury the moment you step out of the tub. Choose colors and textures that complement your bathroom's color scheme.
Decorative Hooks: Install attractive hooks on the wall or the back of the door for your robe and towel. This keeps them handy and off the floor.
Personal Touches: Finally, add elements that you love. This could be a piece of framed art on the wall, a small, humidity-loving plant like a fern or orchid, or a decorative soap dispenser. These details make the space feel uniquely yours and enhance the overall sense of well-being.
By thoughtfully selecting accessories from these three categories, you build a bathroom environment that is not only beautiful but also safe, highly functional, and perfectly suited to helping you unwind in your slipper tub.
FAQs
Q: What's better, anti-slip strips or a bath mat for safety?
A: Both are effective. Strips offer a permanent, low-profile, and easy-to-clean solution. A removable bath mat provides more coverage, can be taken out for washing, and might feel softer underfoot. Your choice depends on whether you prefer a built-in look or flexible convenience.
Q: How do I clean adhesive anti-slip strips?
A: Clean them during your regular tub cleaning. Use a soft brush or cloth with a mild bathroom cleaner or a vinegar-water solution. Gently scrub the textured surface. Avoid using abrasive scrubbers or harsh chemicals like bleach, as they can degrade the material and the adhesive over time.
Q: Can I install a grab bar myself, or do I need a professional?
A: While it's a common DIY project, correct installation is critical for safety. The bar must be securely anchored into the wooden wall studs behind the drywall or tile. If you are confident in locating studs and using the correct mounting hardware, you can do it yourself. If you have any doubt, hiring a professional handyman or installer is a wise choice to ensure it can support full body weight.
Q: What should I look for when buying a tub tray?
A: Focus on two things: material and size. Choose a water-resistant wood like teak or bamboo, or a coated metal. Most importantly, measure your tub's width (where the tray will sit) and its height from rim to floor. Ensure the tray is wide enough to rest securely but not too wide and that its legs are tall enough to clear your tub's rim and any side-mounted faucets.
Q: Are bath pillows sanitary? How do I keep them clean?
A: Yes, with proper care. Choose a pillow with a removable, machine-washable cover. After each use, rinse the pillow with clean water and hang it to dry completely in a well-ventilated area to prevent mildew. Regularly wash the cover according to the manufacturer's instructions. Avoid pillows with non-removable covers or materials that don't dry quickly.
