Bath Bombs

Some days, you don't want to soak in a bunch of bubbles.  You'd rather use something with a bit more pizazz so you prefer to use a bath bomb.  Bath bombs were invented in 1989 as an alternative to bubble bath. They provide something that is often better for people who have sensitive skin. By definition, a bath bomb is made up of packed dry ingredients that react when exposed to water.  

Bath bombs are so easy to make at home and they do not require any strange or hard to get ingredients.  Most recipes all call for the same ingredients in the same proportions.  Although the bath bombs are usually found in spheres (round balls), they can be made into any shape.

The basic recipe is: 1 cup baking soda, 1/2 cup citric acid, 1/2 cup Epsom salts, 1/2 cup corn starch, 3/4 tablespoon water, 2 teaspoon essential oils, 2 tablespoons oil such as almond, coconut, or even baby oil, a few drops of food coloring, and a mold.  You can use a muffin tin either regular or mini, candy pans, or even molds designed specifically for bath bombs.  

Mis all the dry ingredients except for the citric acid together in a decent sized bowl.  Add all the liquid ingredients together in a small jar that has a top.  Shake the liquids together in the jar before pouring the ingredients into the dry ingredients.  Using your hands, mix the wet ingredients with the dry ingredients until thoroughly mixed.  Then add the citric acid. Please note there might be a bit of fizzing that occurs but that is normal.  The mixture should be crumbly.

Now pack the mixture into your chosen molds, packing them in as tightly as possible. You might need to use a spoon or glass to help pack the mixture tighter together.  Once done, slip the bath bombs out of the molds and lay on wax paper to dry overnight.  Allow them to properly cure over the next day or two.  As long as they are packaged properly, they will last up to 6 months. The best way to package them is in cellophane bags, plastic ziplock bags, Tupperware containers or in jars with lids.  When you are ready to use, drop one into the water and it should immediately begin fizzing and dissolving into your bath.

The scent chosen will help determine how you react. For instance, if you scent the bath bomb with lavender, it will help you feel more relaxed while something like rose might make you feel sexier.  Eucalyptus or mint might make you feel more energetic while sweet orange brings back memories of when you are growing up.  

It is strongly suggested you do not make bath bombs on a day when the humidity level is above 40 percent because the salt in the recipe will absorb moisture which might cause the bombs to start fizzing too early.  If it is raining, hold off till the next day, after the rain has had a chance to stop and the world to dry out a bit.  Be careful when purchasing bath bombs to make sure they do not have any ingredients such as talc, parabens, benzene or benzene derivatives, phthalates, or artificial colorings or artificial scents.

If you are allergic to any of the normal ingredients used in a bath bomb, don't use it.  These make great gifts at Christmas, birthdays, or any time you want to give someone something special.  Let me know what you think, I'd love to hear.  Have a great day.