In recent years, bath bombs have grown in popularity. They’re bubbly, scented, colorful and promote relaxation as you take a warm bath. Why would you ever use bar soap when you can have fun with bath bombs?
Problem is, bath bombs tend to be a bit expensive at most retail stores, often anywhere between $5 and $9 per bomb. If you wanted to use a bath bomb to unwind regularly, the cost would quickly add up and become too expensive.
So how can you enjoy the relaxing effects of bath bombs without emptying your wallet? Try making your own. Not only can you buy products in bulk that will ultimately save you money, but making your own bath bombs gives you the freedom to customize the color and scents to your liking.
This cheap, easy-to-learn recipe makes about 12 bath bombs that will leave you relaxed and resting easy about your finances.

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What You Need
- 8 oz baking soda
- 4 oz Epsom salt
- 4 oz cornstarch
- 4 oz citric acid
- One large bowl
- Whisk
- Biodegradable glitter or dried flower petals (optional)
- Five tablespoons of coconut oil, or any other type of vegetable oil
- One tablespoon of water
- Two teaspoons of essential oil, for your bath bomb’s scent
- 4-6 drops of your choice of food coloring
- One small jar or bowl
- 12-18 silicone molds

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Instructions
Now that you have selected which color and scents you want for your bath bombs, it’s time to make the bath bombs. The process takes about 10 minutes to prepare, though many hours to dry.
- Mix the dry ingredients (baking soda, Epsom salt, cornstarch and citric acid and optional glitter or dried flower petals) in a large bowl. Use the whisk to remove any clumps from the mixture.
- Mix the wet ingredients (oil, water, essential oils and food coloring) in the small jar or bowl.
- Slowly add the liquid mixture to the dry mixture, at about a teaspoon at a time.
- Slowly whisk the mixture until it barely clumps together.
- Scoop the mixture into the silicone molds as soon as possible and press it into the silicone molds. Do not allow the mix to dry out in the mixing bowl.
- Set the bath bombs aside for them to dry. This could take multiple hours, so be patient.
- Once the bath bombs are dry, pop them out of the molds. Store them in cellophane until your next bath. For the best results with the essential oils, use the bombs within two weeks.

Choosing Colors And Scents
There are many different options when it comes to colors and scents for your bath bomb, and the ingredients you choose depend on your desires.
Purple Coloring With Lavender
Lavender is a popular essential oil because it promotes tranquility and soothes anxiety, which makes it ideal for any relaxing soak. It also promotes sleep, so it’s a great essential oil to use in a bath bomb if you’re bathing before bedtime. To make a purple bath bomb with a calming lavender scent, use four to six drops of purple food coloring with two teaspoons of lavender essential oil.
Yellow Coloring With Lemon And Wild Orange
This citrus bath bomb is perfect for summer. To make a yellow bath bomb with fruity scents, use four to six drops of yellow food coloring mixed with two teaspoons total of lemon and wild orange essential oils (one teaspoon of each). This bright citrus bath bomb adds a burst of energy, so it’s recommended to incorporate it into your morning routine because both lemon and wild orange essential oils promote optimism and invigoration.
Green Coloring With Lemongrass, Rosemary And Thyme
This herbal bath bomb adds earthy vibes to your bath. Use four to six drops of green food coloring and add two teaspoons of a mixture of lemongrass, rosemary and thyme essential oils. Lemongrass has a more mild scent than lemon and promotes relaxation, while rosemary and thyme promote creativity and focus.
Red Coloring With Rose Scents
This bath bomb will make you to feel like you’re walking in a field of red roses. To make this relaxing bath bomb, use four to six drops of red food coloring and add two teaspoons of rose essential oil. If you want your bath bomb to be pink instead of red, use less drops of coloring. The rose essential oil has been linked to lessening depression and the bath bomb also does wonders for your skin.