As it has been ‘lockdown’ here in the UK and for many across the world for quite some months now, I’m sure you have all finished off many task lists you have been adding to for several years. So, I thought I’d create a fun blog this month to show you how to make bath bombs yourself at home or with your kids (or big kids).
It can be a fun scientific and educational activity with kids so I have also created an easy read printable version which you can shoot into your inbox by popping in your email address below:
Most ingredients you might already have in the cupboard and if not you should be able to pop them on your next shopping round or online order. I’ve put links to common ingredients but there are plenty around. So let’s get started with what ingredients and equipment you will need to make 3 bath bombs…
Prep time: 30 minutes and 2 – 4 hours for setting (or pop in fridge for 30 minutes)
What Bath Bomb ingredients do I need?
- Baking Soda (known as bicarbonate of soda in our world) – 1 Cup
- Citric Acid – 1/2 Cup
- Essential Oil – 5 drops+ of your choice
- Water to bind – 1 table spoon
What optional ingredients are there to spruce them up?
- Epsom Salts
- 2 tbsp oil – (such as sunflower, coconut or olive oil to help bind)
- Food Colouring – 1 drop (be careful as any more will stain the bath and your skin)
- Corn Starch (optional, can help slow down the reaction/fiz with the citric acid)
- Orange peel, lavender or rose petals, to decorate (optional)
What equipment do I need?
- Mixing Bowl
- Whisk/Hands
- Spoon/Sprayer (for water to bind)
- Plastic Moulds (see below for ideas)
- Eye Covering (for safety as citric acid can sting in the eyes)
- Plastic gloves (for safety as citric acid can sting in small cuts)
What’s the method?
- Mix the dry ingredients into the mixing bowl; Baking Soda, Citric Acid, Corn Starch (optional), Epsom salts (optional) and mix well with your hands or whisk.
- Mix the liquids into a small bowl: Essential Oil, Oil (Sunflower, Coconut oil etc – optional), Food Colouring and Water.
- Gently and steadily mix the liquids into the dry ingredients a small amount at a time, otherwise the liquids will react with the citric acid. Tiny drops at a time as it clumps together into a slight clump together when pressed together. Be careful not to make it too wet and soggy.
- If you’re adding petals or condiments drop these into the bottom of one of the moulds before putting in your mix. Pack it tightly and do the same for the other side if there is two moulds to press together.
- Leave the moulds overnight or at least 2 to 4 hours. You can speed this up by using a fridge for 30 minutes. It’s now ready to pop in the bath and watch your hard work fizz away!!
What can I use for a bath bomb mould?
Most flexible or plastic moulds will work for a bath bomb, enjoy hunting around the house and being creative. Some ideas that circulate online are:
- Pudding or yoghurt pots
- Christmas tree decorations (star maybe)
- Plastic toy packaging
- Easter egg packaging
- Silicone ice cube trays
- Silicone cupcake cases
- Plastic cutters
I hope this blog is useful and creates some fun memories, check out my results below! Please check out my own hand made British bath bombs all inspired by UK Lakes that are 100% natural, vegan and organic friendly in our online Shop.