Bath Bombs: The Ultimate FAQ Guide
Bath bombs have become a staple of self-care routines across the UK — and it's easy to see why. Drop one into a warm bath and watch it fizz, swirl, and fill the room with beautiful fragrance. But what exactly goes into them, and how do you choose the right one? Here's everything you need to know.
The Rise of Bath Bombs in the UK
Bath bombs first appeared in the late 1980s but truly exploded in popularity in the early 2000s. Today, the UK bath bomb market is valued at over £40 million, driven by a growing culture of self-care and home spa experiences. Influencers like Zoella helped bring them into the mainstream, and they've been a bathroom staple ever since.
Types of Bath Bombs
- Moisturising bath bombs — contain shea butter or coconut oil to hydrate and soften skin.
- Aromatherapy bath bombs — infused with essential oils like lavender or eucalyptus for relaxation and stress relief.
- Fizzy bath bombs — the classic type that dissolves in water, releasing colour, scent, and skin-nourishing ingredients.
- Glitter bath bombs — contain biodegradable glitter for a fun, luxurious sparkle.
- Colour-changing bath bombs — create a magical, kaleidoscopic effect as they dissolve.
Bath Bombs vs. Bath Salts: What's the Difference?
- Bath bombs — fizz and dissolve in water, releasing fragrance, colour, and skin-conditioning ingredients. Best for a luxurious, sensory experience.
- Bath salts — (Epsom or Himalayan pink salts) dissolve without fizzing and are primarily used for their therapeutic properties: soothing sore muscles, detoxifying skin, and relieving stress.
What's Inside a Bath Bomb?
- Sodium bicarbonate & citric acid — the duo responsible for the fizzing reaction.
- Essential oils — add fragrance and therapeutic benefits.
- Natural colorants — give bath bombs their vibrant hues without staining your tub.
- Moisturising agents — shea butter, coconut oil, or almond oil to soften and hydrate skin.
- Additives — dried flowers, herbs, or biodegradable glitter for extra sensory appeal.
How to Make Bath Bombs at Home
Want to try making your own? Here's a simple recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup baking soda
- ½ cup citric acid
- ½ cup Epsom salts
- ½ cup cornstarch
- 2 tbsp coconut oil (melted)
- 1 tsp water
- 20 drops of your favourite essential oil
- A few drops of natural food colouring (optional)
Instructions:
- Mix the dry ingredients (baking soda, citric acid, Epsom salts, cornstarch) in a large bowl.
- Combine the wet ingredients (coconut oil, water, essential oil, colouring) in a separate bowl.
- Slowly add the wet ingredients to the dry, mixing well.
- Press the mixture into silicone or bath bomb moulds.
- Leave to dry for 24 hours before using.
Shop Scented Aromas Bath Bombs
Prefer to leave it to the experts? Our handmade bath bombs are crafted with premium ingredients for a truly luxurious experience — from skin-nourishing oils to beautiful, long-lasting fragrances.
Browse our full Bath Bomb Collection and find your perfect match.