How to Hang Eucalyptus in the Shower: 8 Expert Tips
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Ed Malaker
- Last updated:
Eucalyptus leaves are extremely fragrant, which helps provide a relaxing atmosphere in the shower after a long day. Eucalyptus oil can help reduce stress, relieve pain, and clear your sinuses. However, many people aren’t sure about the best way to hang eucalyptus in the shower so it’s effective. If this sounds like your situation, keep reading as we provide several tips and tricks that you can follow so you can start experiencing this rejuvenating pick-me-up.
Before You Begin
We recommend gathering all your tools and supplies before you start your project, so you don’t need to stop. The hardest part will be acquiring several small branches of fresh or dried eucalyptus leaves. The more you have, the stronger the fragrance will be. You will also need twine or string, a small rubber band or hair tie, and a pair of scissors. We also recommend wearing protective rubber gloves while working with the eucalyptus branches and leaves, as the oil can irritate the skin.
Tools and Supplies
- Several small branches of fresh or dried eucalyptus leaves
- Twine, yarn, or heavy string
- Rubber band
- Pair of scissors
- Protective rubber gloves
- Rolling pin or hammer
The 8 Tips on How to Hang Eucalyptus in the Shower
1. Remove Leaves From the Eucalyptus Branches
The first step is to gather your eucalyptus branches together and remove the leaves from the bottom end of each branch so you’ll have room to tie them together. We recommend plucking the leaves so you have 5 to 7 inches of bare stem at the bottom of each branch.
2. Prepare the Eucalyptus Leaves (Optional)
Many people like to prepare eucalyptus leaves so they produce a stronger scent. To prepare your eucalyptus leaves, use a rolling pin and a cutting board to flatten them gently. You will instantly notice it becoming more fragrant as you release the oils. If you don’t have a rolling pin, you can use a mason jar, wine bottle, or similar object. You can even use a hammer or a mallet if you’re careful not to use too much force.
3. Cut Your Twine
The next step is to cut a long piece of twine, which you will use to hold the branches together and hang the bouquet from the shower head. We recommend cutting your twine at least 24 inches long to ensure that you have enough. Many people will make it longer, especially if it is their first attempt.
4. Wrap the Twine Around the Branches
Next, tightly wrap the twine around all the branches just below the leaves, so the bare stem is below it. If you’re having trouble holding the stems while you wrap the twine, use a rubber band or hair tie to keep the branches together while you work.
5. Attach the Bouquet to the Shower Head
Tying all the branches together will create a nice bouquet. Use what twine you have left to attach the eucalyptus bouquet to your shower head. Make sure it’s tied securely so it doesn’t fall off.
6. Position the Bouquet
Adjust the twine and position of the eucalyptus bouquet so it doesn’t interfere with the water flow when you turn on the shower. You can also attach it to a shower caddy or other item if you prefer.
7. Enjoy a Hot Shower
With the bouquet in position, take a hot shower, and notice how the steam works with the leaves to produce a pleasant fragrance that helps you feel calm and relaxed.
8. Replace as Needed
You will need to create a new bouquet every 3 to 4 weeks to maintain a strong fragrance. You can replace it sooner if the aroma starts to dissipate.
Other Tips and Tricks
- Replace the eucalyptus when you stop smelling it.
- Purchase your eucalyptus branches at a garden center or florist. You may also be able to purchase them at grocery stores that create floral arrangements, and they’re often available online.
- If the eucalyptus bouquet is too bulky, you can fill sachets with eucalyptus leaves and place them around your shower.
- While helpful and relaxing, eucalyptus oil can irritate the skin, so ensure that the bouquet isn’t directly under the water stream where it can wash the oils onto your body.
- Don’t place a eucalyptus bouquet in a shower that children use, as they are more likely to touch the leaves, which can irritate the skin.
- Stop using eucalyptus immediately if your skin becomes irritated or you notice signs of an allergic reaction and contact the doctor if your reactions are severe.
- Don’t use eucalyptus around pets because the oils are toxic to cats, dogs, horses, and other animals.
- If you have trouble finding fresh eucalyptus branches and leaves, try a eucalyptus oil body wash or soap for a similarly relaxing experience.
- A diffuser or humidifier containing eucalyptus essential oil or a medicated ointment like Vicks Vapor Rub can provide a similar experience to a eucalyptus leaf bouquet.
Summary
Hanging eucalyptus in the shower is not difficult. It only requires carefully tying several branches together to create a bouquet that you can attach to your shower head, shower caddy, or another device. While there are many benefits to eucalyptus, the oils can irritate the skin, so wear gloves when working with it, and avoid putting it directly in the path of your shower water. You will also need to keep it from pets and children. If you can’t find real eucalyptus branches in your area, we recommend using essential oils in a humidifier or trying a commercial eucalyptus body wash or soap.
Featured Image Credit: Vie Studiom, Pexels
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