How to Make Bath Bombs So You Don't Need to Splash Out on Pricey Versions

Bath bombs are a lovely way to turn an ordinary bath into a relaxing and luxurious experience, but they can often be expensive. The good news is that you can make your own at home for a fraction of the cost using simple ingredients. As a carer, taking time for self-care is essential, and a homemade bath bomb can be a perfect way to unwind without straining your budget. CarersCardUK shares an easy step-by-step guide to creating your own bath bombs, plus tips to personalise them with scents and colours.

How to Make Bath Bombs So You Don't Need to Splash Out on Pricey Versions

1. What You'll Need to Make Bath Bombs

Making bath bombs is easier than you might think, and you probably already have some of the ingredients in your kitchen.

Basic Ingredients:

  • 1 cup baking soda (helps soften water and balance pH)
  • ½ cup citric acid (creates the fizz when mixed with water)
  • ½ cup Epsom salt (soothes muscles and promotes relaxation)
  • ½ cup cornflour (helps bind ingredients and make bath bombs silky)
  • 3 tablespoons coconut oil or olive oil (moisturises skin and binds the mixture)
  • 1 teaspoon water (to help mix everything together)
  • 15–20 drops essential oil (lavender, eucalyptus, or citrus work well)
  • 2–3 drops natural food colouring (optional, for a pop of colour)

Equipment Needed:

  • A mixing bowl
  • A whisk or spoon
  • Bath bomb moulds (or use silicone moulds, cupcake cases, or even a plastic Easter egg)

Tip: If you don’t have citric acid, you can substitute it with cream of tartar or lemon juice, but the fizz won’t be as strong.

2. Step-by-Step Guide to Making Bath Bombs

Once you have your ingredients ready, follow these simple steps to create your bath bombs.

Instructions:

  1. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the baking soda, citric acid, Epsom salt, and cornflour until well combined.
  2. Combine the Wet Ingredients: In a separate small bowl, mix the coconut oil (or olive oil), water, essential oil, and food colouring.
  3. Slowly Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients while stirring continuously. Go slowly to prevent the mixture from fizzing too early.
  4. Check the Consistency: The mixture should feel like damp sand—if you squeeze it in your hand, it should hold its shape. If it’s too dry, add a tiny bit more water.
  5. Press into Moulds: Firmly press the mixture into bath bomb moulds or any alternative moulds you’re using.
  6. Let Them Set: Leave the bath bombs in the moulds for at least 24 hours to harden. Store them in a dry place away from moisture.

Tip: If your bath bombs crack or crumble, you might need a little more moisture. Try adding a few extra drops of oil or water next time.

3. Fun Ways to Personalise Your Bath Bombs

Once you’ve mastered the basic bath bomb recipe, you can get creative with scents, colours, and textures to make them even more special.

Ways to Customise Your Bath Bombs:

  • Use Different Essential Oils: Try lavender for relaxation, peppermint for invigoration, or chamomile for a soothing soak.
  • Add Dried Flowers or Herbs: Sprinkle dried lavender, rose petals, or chamomile into the moulds for a spa-like effect.
  • Create Multicoloured Bath Bombs: Divide your mixture and add different colours before layering them in the mould.
  • Add a Surprise Centre: Place a small piece of soap, dried flower, or bath-friendly glitter inside for a fun surprise when it dissolves.

Tip: Store bath bombs in an airtight container to keep them fresh and fizzy for longer.

4. The Cost-Saving Benefits of Making Your Own Bath Bombs

Homemade bath bombs are not only fun to make but also significantly cheaper than store-bought versions.

How Much Can You Save?

  • Shop-Bought Bath Bombs: Typically cost between £3–£6 each.
  • Homemade Bath Bombs: Can cost as little as 50p each using budget-friendly ingredients.

By making your own bath bombs, you can save a substantial amount over time while customising them to your preference.

Tip: Homemade bath bombs make great gifts for friends and family, saving you even more money on presents!

Summary and Key Takeaways

  • Making bath bombs at home is easy, affordable, and fun.
  • Use simple ingredients like baking soda, citric acid, and essential oils to create luxurious bath treats.
  • Personalise your bath bombs with different scents, colours, and natural additions like dried flowers.
  • Homemade bath bombs cost significantly less than shop-bought versions, saving you money in the long run.

With this simple DIY method, carers can enjoy a relaxing bath without the hefty price tag of store-bought bath bombs. Plus, making your own means you can customise them to suit your preferences, ensuring a soothing and enjoyable experience. For more budget-friendly self-care ideas, visit CarersCardUK.



Posted: 03/05/2025

View all news & articles




Proud to be supporting