DIY Fizzy Bath Bombs Recipe for Under $5

Most of the items used are already on your pantry shelf so instead of feeling like you have to save the pretty bath bombs for a special occasion, try this recipe for a big batch and make every bath special!

You Will Need:

• Baking soda 1 Cup
• Epsom Salt ½ Cup
• Citric Acid ½ Cup
• Olive Oil or Coconut Oil 3 TBsp
• Food coloring (few drops optional)
• Essential Oil for scent (few drops)
• Mold for bombs (optional)

Step 1: Combine Dry Ingredients

I combined the baking soda, Epsom salt, and citric acid in a bowl. Mix evenly with a whisk to be sure that the ingredients are well combined and that there is not a greater concentration of citric acid in any particular spot. I found the citric acid for $2.97 in the canning section at the grocery store.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, I combined olive oil and the essential oil. Add food coloring at this time as well if you are trying to create colorful bath bombs. If you would rather use coconut oil, warming it slightly will make it easier to work with and to mix. If you choose coconut oil be mindful of the temperature and where you store the finished bath bombs because coconut oil can get melty in the sun. If you don’t want to use food coloring, there are powdered color pigments made with natural ingredients that could be substituted.

Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

I slowly added the oils to the bowl with the dry ingredients and mixed thoroughly. It is very important to add a small amount at a time. When the citric acid gets wet, it begins to fizz so adding just a few drops of the oils at a time and mixing it well, will make a bomb that is fizzier when you use it in the bath. Make sure to get the oil evenly distributed or the mixture will be too crumbly to form into the ball-shaped bombs. 

Step 4: Mold the Bath Bombs

I rolled and shaped the mixture into ball-shaped bombs. You could also use a cupcake pan or it would be clever to use a candy mold to make the bombs into fun shapes like hearts or butterflies. While molding the bombs, you can get creative and mix or press tiny flower petals or a small toy that will emerge from the center of the bomb. 

Step 5: Let Bath Bombs Harden

I let the bombs sit and harden for 24 hours before using to give them a chance to hold their shape. You will want to let your bath bombs harden and sit for at least 24 hours and then you can store them in a decorative jar or container in the bathroom for around 6 months.

Step 6: Enjoy the Bath Bombs

I filled the bathtub and dropped a bath bomb in to create a fizzy, relaxing, and wonderfully scented bath. You can choose so many types of essential oils for these depending on what scent appeals to you. Try several different to find the one you like best!

With a house full of daughters, we spent so much on bath bombs that disappeared down the drain in moments and this DIY solution was a lifesaver. I can make a huge batch at once and not worry about the cost, without sacrificing the experience or the quality. It was also a great project to involve the kids in and work on together. Get creative with the color and shape and use these for gifts or enjoy yourself. Whether you are after a bright, colorful and fun kids’ bathtime; or a relaxing, scented, mom escape, this recipe will do the trick!

Do you have tips for making homemade bath bombs or other bath products to save money? Share your best DIY bath product recipes and tips or find ideas for other fun homemade bath products at Hometalk!