DIY Fun: Crafting Incredible Bath Bombs for Yourself or Loved Ones
By Emma Collins
Updated: June 6, 2022
Originally Published: Feb. 19, 2021
We understand your hesitation: “Home-made bath bombs? Aren’t those only available at luxurious stores like Lush?” We hear you. There’s nothing quite like sinking into a steaming bath and dropping in one of those adorable, fragrant, skin-loving fizzy delights. Instantly, the outside world fades away, and you’re left with pure bliss. But here’s the secret: bath bombs are a delightful blend of science and creativity! You can easily gather all the ingredients you need from any store, meaning you don’t have to compromise on your favorite scents when shopping. So, let’s dive into how to make your own bath bombs and elevate your self-care routine!
The Joy of Bath Bombs
Indulging in a bath bomb-infused soak is the ultimate self-care experience. While they may not cure all your skin concerns, they can transform your bath into a luxurious spa setting for at least 45 minutes. Why not take that time to pamper yourself further? You can brush your hair or apply tanning lotion while soaking in the delightful scents of bergamot and orange, only to be interrupted later by reality!
Essential Ingredients
What makes bath bombs fizz and work their magic? It’s all about the citric acid reacting with the bathwater! Here’s what you’ll need to get started:
- Baking soda
- Citric acid
- Epsom salt
- Cornstarch
- Coconut or almond oil (known as a “carrier oil”)
- Water
Simple Bath Bomb Recipe
- Mix the dry ingredients first:
- ½ cup of citric acid
- ½ cup of Epsom salt
- 1 cup of baking soda
- ½ cup of cornstarch
- Combine wet ingredients separately:
- 2-3 tablespoons of carrier oil
- 3-4 tablespoons of water
- 10-20 drops of essential oils
Slowly mix the wet ingredients into the dry mixture. Do this gradually to prevent premature fizzing. Test the mix by squeezing it together; if it falls apart, add more wet ingredients.
Customization Options
Feel free to add a personal touch with:
- Colorants (gel or dry, but dry tends to work best)
- Essential oils
- Zest from oranges or lemons
- Fresh herbs
- Chemical-free flower petals
Popular Scent Combinations
- Lavender and rosemary
- Cedar and sandalwood
- Frankincense and myrrh
- Orange and bergamot
- Rose and geranium
- Orange and lemon
- Lavender and tea tree
These combinations can be made with essential oils, and you can include matching petals or zest for an extra touch.
Benefits of Bath Bombs
Bath bombs do more than just look pretty; they offer various benefits:
- Enhance your mood
- Moisturize skin
- Alleviate muscle soreness
- Improve sleep quality
- Make you smell delightful
- Provide a detox for your skin
Creative Bath Bomb Shapes
Love unique shapes? You can easily create them using molds. Opt for a simple ball or dome mold, or repurpose items you have at home. Pack the mixture into cookie cutters, form it with your hands, and wrap it in plastic to dry without crumbling.
DIY Bath Bomb Tutorial
Need additional guidance? There are countless tutorials available online. We particularly enjoy this video for its vibrant coloring techniques, reminiscent of our favorite Lush bath bombs. If you’re feeling adventurous, try your hand at creating a geode version — perfect for a friend who loves crystals!
Caution: Bath Bomb Considerations
While bath bombs are delightful, they can potentially clog your plumbing. To prevent this, encase your bomb in a nylon stocking or a pair of pantyhose before dropping it in the tub. After enjoying your bath, flush your drain with a vinegar and water solution to remove any lingering residue.
Be mindful that bath bombs can also lead to irritation. Avoid ingredients that could disrupt your body’s natural balance, such as parabens, synthetic dyes, and glitter.
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Conclusion
Now you’re ready to enjoy a multitude of fizzy, relaxing baths! Happy crafting!