Tired of spending a fortune on store-bought bath bombs that fizz too fast or leave your tub messy? Making your own at home is easier than you think.
With a few simple ingredients, you can create 6 easy homemade bath bomb recipes that are fun to make, safe for skin, and perfect for gifts.
These bath bombs DIY recipes let you control scents, colors, and textures, so you can make relaxing lavender soaks for bedtime or energizing citrus baths for the morning.
In this guide, you’ll find detailed instructions, ingredient variations, and storage tips to make sure every bath bomb comes out perfectly. And here’s why that matters: a DIY bath bomb is not just a bath accessory—it’s a customizable self-care experience.
Understanding the Basics of DIY Bath Bombs
Before jumping into recipes, it helps to understand the core ingredients:
- Baking soda: Creates the fizz when combined with citric acid.
- Citric acid: Reacts with baking soda to make bubbles.
- Cornstarch: Adds smoothness and slows down the fizz.
- Oils: Coconut, almond, or jojoba oils moisturize the skin.
- Essential oils: Provide fragrance and some skin benefits.
- Colorants: Mica powders or natural colorants like turmeric or beetroot.
Quick Tip: Moisture Control
If your mixture feels too dry, mist lightly with water. Too much water will trigger premature fizzing.
1. Classic Lavender Bath Bomb
Why it works: Lavender is known for calming effects, making this ideal for night baths.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup baking soda
- 1/2 cup citric acid
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 cup Epsom salt
- 3 tsp coconut oil (melted)
- 10 drops lavender essential oil
- Purple mica powder
- Water spray
Instructions:
- Mix dry ingredients.
- Blend coconut oil, lavender oil, and mica.
- Slowly combine wet and dry, stirring constantly.
- Mist lightly until moldable.
- Pack into molds and let dry 24 hours.
Variation: Swap lavender for chamomile or rose for a different relaxing scent.
2. Citrus Orange Bath Bomb
Why it works: Brightens your mood and energizes your morning.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup baking soda
- 1/2 cup citric acid
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 cup Epsom salt
- 3 tsp almond oil
- 15 drops orange essential oil
- Yellow and orange mica powder
Instructions:
Same as above.
Tip: Perfect for a morning bath to refresh your senses.
3. Cocoa Butter Chocolate Bath Bomb
Why it works: Cocoa butter nourishes dry skin while creating a mild chocolate scent.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup baking soda
- 1/2 cup citric acid
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 cup cocoa powder
- 3 tsp cocoa butter (melted)
- 10 drops vanilla essential oil
Variation: Add chocolate chips for novelty, but they may not fully dissolve in the bath.
4. Rose Petal Bath Bomb
Why it works: Rose oil soothes and lightly scents the bath, making it perfect for nighttime relaxation.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup baking soda
- 1/2 cup citric acid
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 cup dried rose petals
- 3 tsp coconut oil
- 10 drops rose essential oil
- Pink mica powder
5. Peppermint Refresh Bath Bomb
Why it works: Peppermint invigorates and is perfect for a morning boost.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup baking soda
- 1/2 cup citric acid
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 cup Epsom salt
- 3 tsp coconut oil
- 10 drops peppermint essential oil
- Green mica powder
Variation: Add crushed mint leaves for texture and aroma.
6. Oatmeal & Honey Bath Bomb
Why it works: Oatmeal soothes irritation and honey moisturizes. Great for sensitive skin and night baths.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup baking soda
- 1/2 cup citric acid
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 cup finely ground oatmeal
- 3 tsp honey-infused oil or coconut oil
- 10 drops vanilla or sweet orange essential oil
Give DIY Bath Bombs as Christmas or Holiday Gifts
Homemade bath bombs aren’t just for personal use—they make thoughtful, creative gifts. Store-bought gifts can feel generic, but a DIY bath bomb set shows care and effort.
Packaging Ideas:
- Mason jars: Layer different colors with tissue paper or shredded paper.
- Cellophane bags: Tie with a ribbon and add a gift tag with instructions.
- Decorative tins or boxes: Ideal for multiple bath bombs and easy storage.
Personal Touches:
- Include a small note with the scent or purpose: “Relaxing Lavender Night Bath” or “Energizing Citrus Morning Soak.”
- Mix and match scents for a mini spa gift set.
- Add dried flowers, glitter, or herbs for a visually stunning presentation.
Tips:
- Make bath bombs a few days in advance to ensure they’re fully dry.
- Store in airtight containers to preserve fizz and scent.
- Include instructions: “Drop one bath bomb under running water for a fizzy, relaxing bath.”
Storage & Usage Tips
- Store in airtight jars to prevent premature fizzing.
- Keep in a cool, dry place.
- Shelf life: 3–6 months depending on ingredients.
Safety Tips:
- Dilute essential oils in carrier oils before adding.
- Patch test if using new ingredients.
