DIY Essential Oil Bath Balls: 3 Relaxing Recipes

Reviewed by ACHS Dean of Aromatherapy, Amanda Lattin.

There’s something special about transforming an ordinary bath into a soothing self-care ritual. Homemade bath balls are an easy and creative way to elevate bath time while enjoying the natural aromas and benefits of essential oils. Plus, they make thoughtful, handmade gifts for friends and family.

In this guide, we’ll show you how to make your own essential oil bath balls at home with simple ingredients and share three delightful recipes you can customize for relaxation, energy, or stress relief.

Why Make Homemade Bath Balls?

Bath balls (often called bath bombs) fizz and dissolve in water, releasing skin-softening ingredients and aromatic essential oils into your bath. Homemade versions allow you to:

• Choose natural ingredients

• Customize scents and colors

• Avoid artificial fragrances and additives

• Create personalized wellness experiences

These DIY bath balls are a perfect project for a rainy day and will help create a spa-like atmosphere in your home.

Basic Bath Ball Recipe

Before trying the specialty blends below, start with this simple base recipe.

Ingredients

• 1 cup baking soda

• 1/2 cup citric acid

• 1/2 cup Epsom salt

• 1/2 cup cornstarch

• 2–3 teaspoons of a carrier oil (like sweet almond, coconut, or jojoba oil)

• 1 teaspoon of water (optional, use sparingly)

• 15–20 drops of essential oil

• Silicone molds or bath bomb molds

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the baking soda, citric acid, Epsom salt, and cornstarch.

2. In a separate small bowl, mix the carrier oil and essential oils.

3. Slowly add the liquid mixture to the dry ingredients while whisking continuously.

4. The mixture should feel like damp sand and hold together when squeezed.

5. Firmly pack the mixture into molds. This should make 4 bath bombs.

6. Let dry for 24 hours before removing from molds.

7. Store in an airtight container until ready to use.

Pro Tip

Avoid adding too much water at once, as it can cause the bath balls to fizz prematurely.

Essential oil blend combinations to customize the bath bomb recipe

Recipe 1: Lavender Relaxation Bath Balls

Perfect for evening baths and winding down before bedtime.

Essential Oils

• 12 drops Lavender Lavandula angustifolia essential oil

• 5 drops Chamomile Chamaemelum nobile essential oil

• 3 drops Cedarwood Juniperus virginiana essential oil

Optional Add-Ins

• Dried lavender Lavandula angustifolia flowers

• Purple mica powder or a natural colorant

Benefits

This calming blend promotes relaxation and creates a peaceful spa atmosphere. Lavender and chamomile are well-loved for their soothing aromas, while cedarwood adds a grounding note.

Recipe 2: Citrus Sunrise Bath Balls

An uplifting blend to energize your morning or refresh your mood.

Essential Oils

• 10 drops Sweet orange Citrus sinensis essential oil

• 5 drops Grapefruit Citrus paradisi essential oil

• 5 drops Lemon Citrus limonum essential oil

Optional Add-Ins

• Dried calendula Calendula officinalis flowers

• Yellow or orange natural colorant

Benefits

Bright citrus oils can help create an invigorating and cheerful bathing experience. These bath balls are ideal for boosting your mood and adding a burst of freshness to your day.

Recipe 3: Mint Eucalyptus Spa Bath Balls

Create a refreshing, crisp, and cooling spa-inspired experience at home.

Essential Oils

• 10 drops Eucalyptus Eucalyptus globulus essential oil

• 8 drops Spearmint Mentha spicata essential oil

• 2 drops Pine Pinus sylvestris essential oil

Optional Add-Ins

• Dried mint leaves

• Green mica powder or natural colorant

Benefits

This blend feels refreshing and revitalizing. The soothing aroma of eucalyptus and spearmint creates a fresh, clean atmosphere that’s especially enjoyable after exercise or a long day.

Tips for Making a Successful Bath Ball

Use High-Quality Essential Oils: Organic, high-quality, sustainably sourced essential oils deliver the best aroma and overall experience. The Apothecary Shoppe offers a wide range.

Store Properly: Keep bath balls in an airtight container away from moisture to preserve their fizz and scent.

Customize Your Creations: Experiment with different essential oil combinations, dried botanicals, and natural colors to make your bath balls uniquely yours.

Safety Reminder: Essential oils are highly concentrated. Always dilute them properly and avoid oils that may irritate sensitive skin. If pregnant, nursing, or under medical care, consult a healthcare professional before using essential oils.

Get Started Right Away

Making homemade bath balls is a fun and rewarding way to incorporate aromatherapy into your self-care routine. With just a few simple ingredients and your favorite essential oils, you can create luxurious bath experiences right at home.

If you’re ready to dive in, the Apothecary Shoppe Fizzy Bath Ball Kit makes it easy to get started. The kit includes everything you need to create beautifully scented bath balls featuring a soothing blend of lavender, bright lemon, and warm cardamom essential oils.

Try these recipes, get creative with your own blends, and enjoy the calming, uplifting benefits of essential oils one bath at a time.

Learn more ways to incorporate essential oils in your daily life with AROMA 101 Introduction to Aromatherapy, offered by American College of Healthcare Sciences.

This content is for educational purposes only and is not intended to be medical advice. Always use herbs and essential oils with caution and keep out of reach of children. Use particular caution when pregnant or nursing. Always check contraindications and think safety first! The statements herein have not been evaluated by the FDA. Products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent disease.