How to Use Bath Bombs Without a Bathtub

Bath bombs are great fun for everyone of all ages. And let us let you into a little-known secret: you don’t always need a bathtub to reap the benefits of a bath bomb.

So, if you don’t have access to a tub, or you’re being more mindful of your water consumption, this articles shows you several nifty ways on how to use bath bombs without a bathtub.

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No Bathtub? No Problem!

If you only have access to a shower, it’s important to store your bath bombs so that they won’t come into direct contact with water until you’re ready to use them.

Water will cause them to instantly fizz up and erode, so keeping them in waterproof packaging is wise, if space is a problem, and/or you need to store them inside the shower.

Uses For Bath Bombs That Don’t Require a Bathtub

If you’ve come by some lovely new bath bombs but don’t have access to a bathtub, here are several ways you can enjoy your bath bomb without the requirement of a tub.

1. CREATE A DIY FOOT SPA

Had a long day and need to soak those tender, tired feet? Your bath bomb can make a great makeshift foot spa ingredient! Just fill up a container large enough to fit both your feet and pop your bath bomb inside to treat those toes to some pampering goodness!

2. HAVE A BATH BOMB SHOWER

You might be wondering, how exactly does a bath bomb shower work? Easy.

You can experience the full frothy joy of a bath bomb in the shower by placing it inside something like muslin cloth or a cheesecloth, and attaching it underneath the shower head so that the warm water ruptures it as you step under the shower head. This will instantly add some pizazz to an otherwise boring shower!

3. USE YOUR BATH BOMB AS AN AIR-FRESHENER

You can crumble and place a bath bomb into a China or porcelain bowl to create a pot-pourri effect. Bath bombs’ fragrances are rather potent, so this could be a great, more eco-friendly way to create an aroma in your home without relying on plug-ins, candles, incense, or diffusers.

Alternatively, you can also put some of the crumbled bath bomb into a spray bottle to breath some aromatic life into your curtains and furniture.

4. DIY AROMATHERAPY

Many bath bombs contain organic scents, such as essential oils, which can mean they can be a great option to indulge in some aromatherapy. Take a smallish chunk of your bath bomb of choice and allow it to dissolve into a glass of hot water to create a warm, fuzzy effect, as associated with aromatherapy.

If your bath bomb contains calming oils, such as lavender, rose, camomile, or rosemary, this can be great to use in the evenings to help encourage a good, restful night’s sleep.

Other fragrances, such as mint, eucalyptus, or lemon can be great for mood elevation or energy-building.

Read What are the Most Popular Bath Bomb Scents?

5. USE YOUR BATH BOMB AS AN EXCUSE TO BOOK A GETAWAY!

Sometimes it doesn’t take much to remind you to take some time out and book a little break away. This can be a cosy little country cottage in the Cotswolds, or a trendy Airbnb in your favourite city – just make sure it has a tub – and pop that bath bomb into your suitcase!

6. RE-GIFTING

If, for whatever reason, your bath bomb options aren’t whetting your appetite, you can always rehome your bath bomb to someone you know will appreciate it. Bath bombs make great little stocking fillers, birthday gifts, or Secret Santa presents.

7. USE IT AS A HOME DEODORISER

Most bath bombs contain baking soda, which is a wonderful absorbing and neutralising ingredient for unpleasant or unwanted odours, meaning they can be great for bathrooms, wet rooms, or even kitchens. With the latter, just make sure to keep it away from moisture, including steam from the cooker.

You can also use them inside shoes (when not in use) to absorb any odours.

8. GET CREATIVE!

Bath bombs are often known for their funky designs and colours, as well as their heavenly aromas. So, if you perhaps have a colourful assortment of bath bombs you’ve come by somehow, and no bathtub, put your creative imagination to the test to see how you can use them to create decorative ornaments, holiday decorations, or just a whimsy addition to brighten up the bathroom.

9. USE AS A CLOTHING-FRESHENER

Place your bath bomb/s inside an organza bag and keep it inside your drawers or wardrobe to keep your clothing smelling fresh and fragrant.

10. DONATE

Many charity organisations and pre-loved shops may take bath bombs (providing they contain their full, unfastened packaging), so donating your bath bomb to a charitable cause can be a good deed to brighten yours and someone else’s day.

Bath Bomb Precautions

Generally, bath bombs are safe products to have around the house, but a few little precautions can go a long way.

• Always keep bath bombs away from small children and pets. They may look (and smell) delicious, or like toys, but if ingested, the ingredients could have many health ramifications, such as vomiting and diarrhoea. 
• Always check the ingredients to ensure nothing in the bath bomb will cause any allergic reactions, if this is something you’re prone to. Certain skin conditions, such as eczema and psoriasis, can be aggravated by products like bath bombs. Always check with your health practitioner or a dermatologist to be on the safe side.
• Avoid contact with eyes.
• Always purchase bath bombs from a reputable retailer.

What are Bath Bombs Made From?

Ingredients may vary from retailer to retailer, but the three main components in your average bath bomb are: baking soda, corn starch, and citric acid. They will then often be infused with various colourings and scents, such as essential oils, and occasionally healing products such as Epsom salts.

What Makes Bath Bombs So Fizzy?

It all comes down to science! As mentioned above, bath bombs contain baking soda (or bicarbonate soda) and citric acid, which will react when met with hot or warm water.

The chemical formula inside the soda is called NaHCO3, which, when submerged in warm water, creates a positive and negative chemical reaction, which results in the impressive fizziness bath bombs are famed for.

Are Bath Bombs Vegan-Friendly?

Technically, yes. Most bath bombs do not contain any animal products. However, it is worth being mindful of the retailer’s cruelty practices, and whether they test on animals.

All vegan products are, by law, required to adorn their packing with the vegan ‘V’ sign if the products are vegan, which will make it easy to establish whether your bath bomb is cruelty-free or not.

Are Bath Bombs Safe for Children?

Children’s skin is typically more sensitive than adults’, so if you wish to purchase a bath bomb for your baby or small child to enjoy during bath-time, it is advised to stick with ranges designed specifically for infants and small children, as they’re likely to have been created with skin sensitivity in mind, and will be less harsh on their skin.

Read next - Bath Bombs vs. Bubble Bath