Bathing spaces are no longer just utilitarian spaces to get clean. Today, bathrooms are becoming spa-like retreats. Whether that means a steam showers and saunas or smaller luxuries like heated floors and towel warmers depends on the homeowner’s lifestyle. In the 2026 bath trends report from the National Kitchen & Bath Association (NKBA), president Bill Darcy noted, “Designers are focusing on how spaces support a homeowner’s individual rituals, preferences, and self-care routines.”
Creating a bathroom that feels like a wellness sanctuary starts with the right materials. Natural stone, and warm wood accents are among the elements that create a soothing vibe, says designer Miceala Quinton. Soothing lighting helps too. Then, it’s up to you to decide which spa-like amenities are worth splurging on.
Here are four popular spa-worthy bathroom upgrades—and what you need to know about adding each one to your next renovation.
1. Enclosed Steam Showers
Installing a steam shower is a significant investment requiring a down-to-the-studs renovation, but for clients who love to steam, it may be worth it, says designer Mindy Gayer. She notes that steam showers tend to be on the larger size and must be designed to be fully enclosed, insulated, sealed, and waterproofed—adding to the cost.
In addition to designing a steam-friendly shower enclosure, Gayer notes you will need a place to conceal the steam-making machinery that will be accessible to technicians in the future. Ideally there’s room for the machinery in the ceiling, but in instances where there’s not, Gayer has used a custom cabinet near the shower to conceal the steam mechanism.
2. At-Home Saunas
If you want to add a sauna to your bathroom, you’ll first need space to build one out, which may mean stealing square footage from another room. And while the costs for a custom indoor sauna can quickly add up, there are more affordable options. Unlike traditional saunas that use a central heating unit, infrared-powered sauna booths can simply be plugged in, though you’ll still need space for the closet-like structure. A sauna booth also requires a dedicated electrical circuit, but they’re much less likely to require an electrical panel upgrade.
Quinton sees many clients adding these sauna booths to home gyms. She notes that if you know the dimensions of the booth your contractor can build a little nook with drywall, then slide the booth in for a semi-custom look. For a no-renovation option, try an infrared sauna blanket.
3. Thermal Baths and Cold Plunge Tubs
The latest trend in tub tech is bathtubs that have temperature control. “There are lots of tub features that you can choose, including a heater that continuously heats the water,” Quinton says. “For people who really love to tub, adding those extra features can add a lot of value.”
On the other end of the temperature spectrum, a whole market of cold plunge tubs has emerged as cold-plunging becomes mainstream. Most cold plunge tubs are designed to be used outdoors, but some bath manufacturers are introducing indoor ice baths with built-in chillers that hook up to plumbing and electrical systems. We predict more brands will follow suit, as the cold-plunge trend shows no sign of disappearing anytime soon.
4. Heated Flooring (and Other Cozy Upgrades)
A spa-like upgrade that requires no extra space is a heated floor. Once a pricey luxury, heated floors are now a relatively affordable upgrade, if you’re already replacing your floor tile. Your contractor installs an electric resistance heat mat on the sub floor before laying tile. Heated floors are priced by the foot, so the larger your bathroom, the higher the costs. Quinton also cautions that heated floors can sometimes require electrical upgrades and they are trickier to do if your home is built on a slab.
If ripping up the floors is not an option, Quinton suggests adding a towel warmer. “You could easily add one to your current bathroom without doing a whole remodel,” she says. “Getting out of the shower and having a warm towel can positively affect someone’s mood.”
Quinton’s sentiment about the mood-enhancing power of a warm towel hints at what’s behind this drive to spa-like bathroom upgrades: People are seeking comfort at home. So, if you’re thinking about investing, we give you permission to call it an act of self care.
