Baths are the ultimate way to relax, detox, and restart. There’s something so healing about the warmth, the water, the smells—it’s one of my favorite forms of self care. And what better way to level up your bath routine than with a bath bomb?
Unfortunately, many bath bombs for sale today are filled with artificial colors and synthetic fragrances that can have toxic effects on your health. But I have good news—it’s entirely possible to make your own bath bombs using essential oils!
This blog explains how to make a homemade natural bath bomb using essential oils, without any synthetic fragrances or toxic ingredients. Read on to view the recipe!
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How to Make Natural Homemade Bath Bombs
Homemade bath bombs are incredibly simple to make! All you need is some epsom salt, baking soda, organic essential oils, and other simple ingredients you probably already have lying around at home.
The only thing you might need to purchase is a set of bath bomb molds (like this pack of 12 on Amazon), or some non-GMO citric acid. I’ll include the full ingredients, measurements, and recipes later in this blog.
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What Essential Oils Can I Use?
When it comes to choosing your essential oils, this is where you can get creative! Feel free to choose oils for specific functions, mix scents, and have fun with it. Just be careful to select 100% pure and organic essential oils (which tend to function and smell the best). You should also do your research and make sure they’re okay for direct skin contact.
Some of my favorite essential oils for bath bombs include:
- Lavender
- Chamomile
- Tea tree
- Peppermint
- Cedarwood
- Vetiver
- Pine
- Frankincense
- Sage
- Lemon
And so much more!
Homemade Bath Bombs Recipe
Below is a super simple recipe for making homemade bath bombs:
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup epsom salt (fragrance-free)
- 1 cup baking soda
- 1/2 cup non-GMO citric acid
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 2 tbsp water
- 2 tbsp coconut oil
- Natural food coloring (optional)
- 100% pure organic essential oils (to taste)
- Bath bomb molds
Directions
- Combine baking soda, Epsom salt, cornstarch, and citric acid in a bowl.
- In a separate bowl, mix your oil of choice, water, essential oils, and food coloring (if desired).
- Gradually add the liquid mixture, one spoonful at a time, to the dry ingredients, stirring well after each addition.
- Press the mixture firmly into molds.
- Let the bath bombs dry overnight.
- Carefully remove the bath bombs from the molds.
- Voila—your bath bombs are done!
How to Use a Bath Bomb
Now that you’ve made your bath bombs, it’s time to use them! Below are some tips to help you get the most out of your bath:
- Fill your tub with comfortably warm water (between 90° F and 105° F)
- Gently drop your bath bomb into the water.
- Watch it dissolve and foam within the water. Allow the foam to spread throughout the entire tub.
- Step in and enjoy a relaxing bath in the suds! Epsom salt baths are most effective when you stay in for about 15-60 minutes, but try not to stay in for more than an hour. If you feel yourself getting dehydrated, step out and drink some water.
- When you’re done, fully rinse off, step out, and gently pat yourself dry.
How to Store Homemade Bath Bombs
Storing your homemade bath bombs is super simple, but you’ll need to keep a few things in mind to ensure they stay fresh as long as possible. Below are some tips:
- Store your bath bombs in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
- Keep them in airtight containers to prevent moisture from getting in (jars are great!)
- For extra protection, wrap each bath bomb in parchment paper before storing. You can tie them with twine. (These make great gifts!)
- Write down the date you made them, either by labeling each individual bomb or writing it down elsewhere (like on your notes app). This will help you keep track of their freshness.
How Long do Homemade Bath Bombs Last?
With proper storage, you can generally expect your bath bombs to last about 6 months or so. However, this can vary depending on what ingredients you use, and the environment they’re stored in.
How to Tell If Your Bath Bomb Has Expired
Here are some telltale signs that your bath bomb has surpassed its shelf life:
- Faded colors: If you used any coloring while creating your bath bomb, you may notice faded colors in bath bombs that are over 6 months old. While this in itself isn’t necessarily a problem, it can be a sign that it’s time to make some fresh ones.
- Unpleasant smell: It’s best to use a bath bomb as soon as possible to get the most potent smell and effective aromatherapy. However, older bath bombs may develop a weaker scent, or a strange smell. This is usually a sign that it’s gone bad.
- Mold: Never use a bath bomb that’s developed mold. Toss it out to be safe and make some fresh ones.
Ways to Enjoy Your Homemade Bath Bombs
Now that you have a good supply of homemade bath bombs…what can you do with them? Here are some ideas:
- Classic bath: Drop your bath bomb in a warm bath and enjoy the benefits of aromatherapy.
- Foot soak: Bath bombs can seriously level up your next foot soak! Simply drop them in a basin of warm water to create a soothing soak.
- Gift giving: As I mentioned before, bath bombs make excellent gifts! Consider wrapping them in parchment paper and twine and gifting them to friends and family.
- Party favors: Consider handing out homemade bath bombs as party favors at your next birthday celebration, baby shower, or other special event.
Find More Healthy Recipes and Wellness Tips at Naturally Simple Living
If you tried this recipe, let me know how it went in the comments! I’d love to see what you’ve created.
If you’re interested in living a natural lifestyle and want tips, inspiration, recipes, and more, you’re in the right place! Natural Simple Living is your go-to source for all things health and wellness. Feel free to browse our other blog posts or check us out on Pinterest for more natural lifestyle content.
Happy living!