A Guide to Sustainable DIY Bath Bombs & Shower Steamers

Are you ready to transform your bath and shower routine into an eco-friendly oasis? Today, I’m thrilled to share with you a super simple, utterly delightful way to make your own bath bombs and shower steamers. Forget the store-bought versions with their plastic packaging and mysterious ingredients. We’re going all-natural, baby!

Why Go DIY with Your Bath Time?

Making your own bath bombs and shower steamers isn’t just fun; it’s a step towards a more sustainable and skin-friendly routine. By choosing your ingredients, you can avoid harsh chemicals, reduce waste, and personalize your bathing experience. Plus, these make fantastic, thoughtful gifts for any friend or family member.

What You’ll Need: The Basics

Before we get our hands dirty (or, in this case, fizzy), let’s talk ingredients. For both bath bombs and shower steamers, you’ll start with a similar base:

Baking Soda (1 cup): The backbone of your bath bomb, providing the fizz.

Citric Acid (1/2 cup): Reacts with baking soda and water to give that delightful sizzle.

Cornstarch (1/2 cup): Smooths out your bath bomb, making it softer on your skin.

Epsom Salt (1/2 cup): Relaxes muscles and provides magnesium, great for a soak.

Coconut Oil or Shea Butter (2-4 tablespoons, melted): Binds your ingredients and moisturizes the skin.

Essential Oils (20-30 drops): Choose your favorites for scent and therapeutic benefits. Lavender for relaxation, eucalyptus for clear breathing, or citrus for an energy boost.

Molds: Use silicone molds, muffin tins, or even your hands to shape your creations.

For Bath Bombs:

Witch Hazel or Water (spritz as needed): Helps bind the mixture without setting off the fizz reaction too early. Use a spray bottle for easy application.

Natural Dyes (optional): For color, opt for powdered or liquid natural dyes.

For Shower Steamers:

More Essential Oils: Since these are used for aromatherapy in the shower, feel free to double the amount of essential oil to ensure the scent carries through the steam.

Let’s Get Crafting!

Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together baking soda, citric acid, cornstarch, and Epsom salt. Add Wet Ingredients: Slowly mix in melted coconut oil or shea butter and essential oils into the dry mix. For bath bombs, if you’re adding color, now’s the time. Test the Mixture: It should clump in your hand when squeezed. If it’s too dry, spritz with witch hazel or water lightly. Mold Your Creations: Pack the mixture tightly into your molds. For shower steamers, you can also shape them into disks using your hands or a cookie cutter. Let Them Set: Leave your bath bombs or steamers to dry. Bath bombs need at least 4-6 hours, but overnight is best. Shower steamers are best left to dry for 24-48 hours. Enjoy or Gift: Once dry, pop them out of the molds. Store in a dry place until you’re ready to use them or wrap them up as eco-friendly gifts.