Bath bombs pack a big punch into a small package. Simply drop one into hot water and be amazed by swirling colors, delectable scents and skin-softening ingredients.
It’s no surprise that bath bombs are so popular. With an increasing number of people becoming interested in wellness, natural ingredients and self-care, bath bombs have become an explosive hit.
That being said, many people have questions about bath bombs that are left unanswered. Here, we’ll answer six of the most common in our guide to the Top 6 Bath Bomb FAQs:
- What is a bath bomb?
- How do you make bath bombs?
- How do I use bath bombs?
- Are bath bombs good for you?
- Can bath bombs stain your bathtub?
- Can you use bath bombs in a hot tub?
1. What Is a Bath Bomb?
Bath bombs consist of dry ingredients hard-packed into a particular size or shape. They’re usually about the size of your fist, and tend to be spherical.
Many companies make bath bombs in a variety of fun shapes, though, such as stars, hearts, cute animals and even sushi (yes, it’s a thing).
When dropped in hot water, a bath bomb will immediately start to fizz. This is thanks to key ingredients like sodium bicarbonate (better known as baking soda) and citric acid, an acid that occurs naturally in citrus fruits.
Without dye, bath bombs are colorless. With dye, though, they can explode into a swirling rainbow right in your bathtub.
To soften skin and create an aromatherapeutic experience, most bath bombs are also packed with essential oils and skin conditioners like cocoa or shea butter.
If you’re feeling particularly fancy, you can also purchase bath bombs that release skin-safe glitter into the water. This is usually accomplished with mica, a shimmering mineral.
2. How Do You Make Bath Bombs?
Although bath bombs from specialty bath shops can be a fun treat, their cost can add up quickly. A relaxing soak in your bathtub with a finely scented bath bomb can relieve some stress and have you feeling good and ready for bedtime. You’ve got to get your 8 hours!
If you’re looking for a more wallet-friendly alternative, simply try making your own bath bombs. Don’t worry, it’s easier than it sounds and it’s probably why you google bath bomb FAQs.
As we explained in our DIY bath bomb guide, you’ll only need five base ingredients:
- 1 cup baking soda.
- ½ cup of citric acid.
- ½ cup of cornstarch or kaolin clay.
- 2 tablespoons of your favorite moisturizing oil (like coconut, almond, argan or olive oil).
- Molds of your choice.
Then, you can throw in fun additions like dyes, glitters and dried flowers as you please.
The result is completely customized bath bombs you can give away as gifts or keep for yourself, all for a much cost than you’d pay at the store.
3. How Do I Use Bath Bombs?
Bath bombs are wonderfully easy to use. Just drop a bomb into hot bath water and you’re good to go. Why does this question gets asked so much in bath bomb FAQs?
Some people have even upped their game with more advanced techniques. For example, you might consider getting multiple uses out of your bath bombs by only using half a bomb at a time.
Or, you could put your bath bomb in a finely woven sachet to prevent dried herbs and flowers from clogging up your drain.
However, none of those steps are necessary. Feel free to simply toss in your favorite bath bomb and enjoy.
4. Are Bath Bombs Good for You?
A top question on most bath bomb FAQs and you’ll be pleased to know that at the very least, bath bombs are totally harmless. Although lots of baking soda (the main ingredient in bath bombs) can dry out your skin, you likely won’t experience any dryness or irritation unless you have very sensitive skin.
Plus, since bath bombs are almost always loaded with essential oils and moisturizers, they actually offer plenty of benefits. These include:
- Aromatherapy: Certain essential oils can have therapeutic effects. For instance, lavender oil is known to calm, while eucalyptus oil can invigorate the mind and clear airways. To learn more about aromatherapy, click here.
- Softer skin: As mentioned earlier, most bath bombs contain skin-friendly ingredients like shea butter, cocoa butter or coconut oil. These act to soften and moisturize the skin.
- Silkier hair: The skin-conditioning ingredients in bath bombs aren’t just good for your skin — they’re also great for your hair.
- A luxurious feel: With their intoxicating scents and beautiful colors, bath bombs can transform any bathtub into an indulgent, spa-like oasis.
- Heat therapy: The simple act of taking a bath can have numerous health benefits, from increased circulation to better sleep. Check out our previous article on the benefits of heat therapy to learn more.
5. Can Bath Bombs Stain Your Bathtub?
Because bath bombs often contain dyes, it’s possible that they may stain your bathtub with frequent use.
Additionally, bath bombs with glitter can leave a shimmery ring around your tub.
However, a simple preventative measure can resolve these issues before they start. Simply give your tub a quick rinse after using a particularly shimmery or brightly-colored bath bomb.
Problem solved!
6. Can You Use Bath Bombs In a Hot Tub?
Although bath bombs can technically be safely used in a hot tub, you’ll need to take a few extra considerations into account.
First, be sure to avoid bath bombs with ingredients like dried flowers or herbs, since they can clog up your filters and jets. If you do, always place them into a sachet before use.
Second, keep in mind that using a bath bomb in your hot tub will require additional maintenance. To prevent oils and glitter from accumulating in your hot tub and forming a residue, it’s wise to drain, flush and clean your hot tub after each use.
Since this cleaning process is much easier and quicker in jetted tubs than hot tubs, many users prefer to pop bath bombs in their jetted tub rather than their spa.
Now that you have the answers to those questions, you know everything you need to enjoy a luxurious and relaxing bath with the help of your favorite bath bombs.
Whether you’re looking for a full-blown, glitter-filled experience or a simple skin-softening soak, bath bombs are a fantastic choice for you.
