NEW figures have revealed that Reading is one of the worst places in the UK to enjoy one of life’s most simple pleasures - a bubble bath.

The findings compiled by Harvey Water Softeners link to new figures showcasing the hard water levels for towns and cities across the UK with Reading being deemed one of the worst places for a good soak after a long day at work due to its extremely hard water.

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The best places in the UK for bubble baths included softer water areas such as Edinburgh, Plymouth, Glasgow and Manchester.

Hard water contains more minerals making it harder for products such as bubble bath, soap and shampoo to lather meaning it’s harder to create bigger bubbles.

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Stuart Carter, meditation and mindfulness coach at Simply Mindfulness, said: “The most important thing about a warm bubble bath, after the relief and immediate de-stress, is the message that you're telling yourself.

"We don't take time-out often enough, and by spending—no, scratch that—by investing this time in yourself, you're sending the important message that you matter, that you are good enough, exactly as you are.

“We may be tempted to see a bubble bath as wasting time, but it's nothing of the sort.

"We are addicted to 'doing' in this busy world... and when we spend a little while just 'being' it gives us time to digest the events and emotions of the day and that's hugely beneficial to our mental health and resilience.”

Martin Hurworth, managing director of Harvey Water Softeners, added: “Whether you're relaxing with some well deserved me-time or spending time with your little ones, bubbles are key to turning a basic wash into a bit of fun or just providing that added luxury after a hard day at work.

"Getting the most out of your bathtime can have really positive effects on your wellbeing.

“While the impact of hard water is predominantly felt in regions across the South and East of the UK it’s interesting to note the spread of towns and cities across these areas when it comes to the severity of the situation whether that’s a scummy ring around the bath, limescale or the impact on general cleaning.

“Those living in softer water areas such as Scotland and the North West should be thankful for their natural water supply which is great for your skin and hair, helps your appliances to last for longer and is key to a great bubble bath!”

What causes hard water?

Hard water is caused by a number of external factors related to the makeup of land in different parts of the UK.

While rainfall is naturally soft, once it hits the earth it begins to percolate through the rock, calcium, magnesium and other minerals, these can be absorbed and can alter the chemical balance within the water.

Due to the chalk and limestone regions surrounding many areas hard water is most synonymous with the southern and eastern regions of the UK.