Imagine stepping into your shower and being greeted not just by warm water, but by a delightful, soothing aroma that instantly lifts your spirits and relaxes your mind. This refreshing experience doesn’t require a pricey diffuser or fancy bath products—just a simple wooden clothespin and a few drops of your favorite essential oil.

While clothespins are typically associated with hanging laundry, they can also be used to enhance your daily shower routine in a surprisingly effective way. This easy and inexpensive hack has gained popularity for its ability to transform any ordinary bathroom into a personal spa, and all it takes is a few minutes and basic items you probably already have at home. To try this clever trick, you’ll only need two things: a wooden clothespin and essential oil of your choice. Begin by selecting the type of essential oil that suits your needs or mood. Lavender is a favorite for those looking to unwind and de-stress, eucalyptus works wonders when you’re feeling under the weather or congested, citrus scents like lemon or orange are perfect for an energizing morning shower, and peppermint can give you a brisk, invigorating start to the day while also helping to clear your sinuses.

Once you’ve chosen your scent, take the wooden clothespin and apply a few drops of the essential oil directly onto the wood. Wooden clothespins are preferred over plastic ones because the porous material absorbs and retains the oil much more effectively, which helps the scent to linger longer and spread more evenly throughout the steam-filled bathroom. You don’t need to saturate the clothespin—just two or three drops are usually enough to produce a pleasant fragrance without being overpowering. After applying the oil, simply attach the scented clothespin to your showerhead, curtain, or even a metal caddy if that’s more convenient.

As you run hot water and steam fills the space, it will activate the essential oil and gradually diffuse the scent into the air, creating a calming or invigorating atmosphere depending on the fragrance you selected. This method is essentially turning your clothespin into a mini diffuser, using the steam as a natural vehicle to disperse the aroma. One of the best parts of this trick is that it continues to work for multiple showers before needing a refresh, making it a low-maintenance way to bring a touch of luxury into your everyday life. When the scent begins to fade, just add a few more drops of oil and reuse the clothespin, no need to replace it entirely. What makes this method especially appealing is its simplicity and flexibility. You can change up the scent depending on the time of day or your mood. Want to relax after a long day at work? Go with lavender or chamomile. Need a burst of energy to kickstart your morning?

Try grapefruit or peppermint. Feeling a little stuffed up? Eucalyptus or tea tree oil can help open up your airways. There are also essential oil blends available that are formulated for specific purposes, like relaxation, focus, or immunity, which can be a great way to experiment with different combinations and effects. If you’re new to essential oils, just be sure to choose high-quality, pure oils and avoid synthetic fragrances, as they may not offer the same benefits and could cause irritation. Always test a small area first if you have sensitive skin, even though the oil is being applied to the clothespin rather than directly to your skin.

This tiny, budget-friendly hack is a great example of how small changes can enhance your everyday routine. It’s an effortless way to add a little joy, comfort, and even aromatherapy to your daily shower. The next time you’re getting ready for a rinse, take a moment to clip that scented clothespin to your shower and let the steam work its magic. Not only will your bathroom smell amazing, but your mood may just get a boost, too.