benefits of eucalyptus steam room

DIY AROMATHERAPY SHOWER MELTS: 4 EASY RECIPES

Discover how to create your own aromatherapy DIY shower melts using essential oils! In this tutorial, you’ll learn how to make and use shower steamers, featuring four delightful homemade recipes: invigorating citrus fizzies to wake you up, eucalyptus shower bombs to soothe colds, relaxing rose shower tablets, and lavender melts to promote restful sleep. This post is a guest contribution from Country Hill Cottage and includes helpful tips for packaging, along with free printable labels for gift-giving!

We all need a bit of wellness now and then, and aromatherapy shower steamers are the perfect way to create a spa-like experience in your own bathroom. Personally, I often opt for a quick shower instead of a long bath, making homemade shower melts an ideal choice for a refreshing aromatherapy boost. Whether you’re showering in the morning for a revitalizing lift or winding down in the evening after a stressful day, these little luxuries can transform your everyday routine into a relaxing wellness retreat. Sound good? Let’s dive into making DIY shower melts!

Benefits of shower melts

Bath bombs, bath soaks, and milk baths are well-loved products for enjoying the aromatherapy benefits of essential oils in the tub. But what about using essential oils in the shower? Enter DIY shower melts! When activated by water, these shower melts fizz away, releasing delightful fragrances that indulge your senses and soothe your mind.

Aromatherapy shower melts—also known as shower tablets, shower bombs, or shower steamers—are effective for balancing your mind and emotions, relieving stress and tension, and alleviating symptoms of headaches or sinus congestion.

Materials and supplies for shower melts

Here’s a breakdown of the essential ingredients for making basic shower melts:

  • Baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) and citric acid: These two ingredients are crucial for creating the fizzing effect. The reaction begins when baking soda and citric acid come into contact with water.
  • Arrowroot powder: This ingredient stabilizes the shower melts and helps control the fizzing reaction. Cornstarch can also be used as an alternative.
  • White kaolin clay: Incorporating clay helps extend the longevity of the shower steamers. If you prefer a recipe without clay, check out these DIY shower melts for colds.
  • Essential oils: The aromatherapy benefits of shower tablets come from the essential oils used. Keep reading to discover various shower melt recipes featuring essential oils.
  • Silicone mold: I used a simple round mold, which is the perfect size for creating single-use melts that last for one shower.

How to make DIY shower melts – step-by-step tutorial

DIY shower melts are simple to make! For precise measurements of each ingredient, be sure to consult the recipe card at the bottom of this post. For a detailed, step-by-step tutorial with process photos, check out this guide to DIY shower steamers.

Let’s get started on making shower melts:

  1. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
    In a large, non-metallic mixing bowl, combine the baking soda, citric acid, arrowroot powder, kaolin clay, and mica or natural colorant (if using). Whisk until well combined.
  2. Add Essential Oils:
    Drop the essential oils into the mixture and give it a quick stir. This helps distribute the oils evenly and prepares them for the next step.
  3. Spritz with Water:
    Lightly spritz the mixture with a small amount of water, alcohol, or witch hazel, and immediately incorporate it to prevent a reaction. If you don’t have a spritz bottle, you can sprinkle water using a teaspoon.Tip: Wear nitrile gloves to protect your hands during this process, as citric acid can remove nail polish and irritate sensitive skin.
  4. Tips for the Best Consistency:
    Achieving the right moisture level is crucial for perfect homemade shower melts. The mixture should resemble damp sand and be wet enough to hold its shape when pressed together.
    • Too Dry: If the mixture is too crumbly and falls apart, break it into a bowl, reconstitute with a little water, and mold it again.
    • Too Wet: If the mixture is too moist, it will expand, affecting the fizzing reaction. You can tell if there’s too much moisture if you hear a fizzling sound, indicating premature reactions. To fix this, add more arrowroot powder, one teaspoon at a time, until the fizzing stops.
  5. Fill the Mold:
    Fill a silicone mold with the shower melts mixture, pressing firmly with your fingertips, especially at the edges.Tip: If you’re using dried herbs or flowers, add them before filling the mold. Keep larger decorations, like dried rose petals, away from the edges to prevent breakage.
  6. Dry and Unmold the Aromatherapy Shower Melts:
    Allow the shower melts to dry for at least 24 to 48 hours until they feel hard and solid. To unmold, carefully peel back the silicone and gently push the melts out.Tip: Humidity can affect the drying time of shower tablets. If you live in a humid area, be prepared for a longer drying period.

And there you have it—beautiful homemade shower melts infused with essential oils! Now that you know the steps, let’s explore four different recipes designed for energy, relaxation, sleep, and sinus relief.

Energising citrus wake up shower melts

Imagine waking up in a fragrant citrus orchard, surrounded by blooming lemon, orange, and grapefruit trees. Lovely, isn’t it?

My homemade wake-up citrus shower melts have a bright, uplifting aroma that will energize you and help you start your day on a positive note.

Essential Oils for Citrus Wake-Up Shower Melts
A refreshing blend of citrus essential oils gives these morning shower fizzies an invigorating fragrance. Here’s what you’ll need:

  • 100 drops lemon essential oil
  • 80 drops sweet orange essential oil
  • 80 drops grapefruit essential oil

Other Materials for Citrus Shower Melts
I chose not to add color to the wake-up shower melts but used dried calendula petals as a decorative touch. Their cheerful yellow hue reminds me of a sunrise, making them simply perfect for this uplifting shower bomb recipe.

DIY eucalyptus shower bombs with menthol

Eucalyptus shower bombs with menthol crystals are one of my favorite natural remedies for colds, stuffy noses, headaches, and respiratory issues. Inhaling eucalyptus essential oil provides a soothing effect and acts as a decongestant for the sinuses and airways.

Essential Oils for Eucalyptus Shower Tablets
Here are the essential oils you’ll need for this eucalyptus shower melts recipe:

  • 100 drops eucalyptus essential oil
  • 50 drops peppermint essential oil
  • 30 drops pine essential oil
  • 15 drops thyme thymol essential oil

Kid-Safe DIY Eucalyptus Shower Tablets
While eucalyptus, peppermint, and thyme thymol essential oils are effective for easing respiratory issues in adults, they aren’t suitable for children due to their high camphor content.

To create kid-safe decongestant shower tablets, use the following essential oil blend:

  • 80 drops lemon eucalyptus essential oil
  • 50 drops spearmint essential oil
  • 20 drops pine essential oil

Other Materials for Shower Melts with Menthol Crystals
The decongestant effect of this homemade shower melts recipe is enhanced by adding menthol crystals. These crystals are a solid compound derived from mint oil, and their strong aroma helps open the airways.

Since menthol crystals are highly concentrated, please do not exceed the amount specified in the recipe card below. Additionally, it’s best to omit the crystals for children under seven.

I colored the eucalyptus shower bombs with a small amount of green mica and added a sprinkling of dried herbs for an extra touch.

Uplifting shower tablets for relaxation and stress relief

The scent of these rose shower tablets is both calming and balancing, leaving you feeling relaxed and refreshed. I love using these shower bursts before meditation or after a workout.

Rose absolute essential oil imparts a floral and sensual aroma to the relaxation shower melts, making them perfect for unwinding and de-stressing during your shower.

Essential Oils for Relaxing DIY Shower Tablets
To create a calming and relaxing essential oil blend with rose, you will need:

  • 100 drops rose absolute oil
  • 60 drops ylang ylang essential oil
  • 30 drops vetiver essential oil

Other Materials for Homemade Rose Shower Melts
For a delightful touch, I chose dried rose petals and pink mica to enhance the rose-scented shower melts. I can also imagine how lovely white shower bombs with rose petals would look.

If desired, you can color your steamers with beet powder for an extra pop of color.

Homemade lavender shower melts for sleep

Here’s another relaxing DIY shower melt recipe, this time featuring essential oils that promote sleep and deep relaxation.

These soothing tablets are perfect for calming your mind before bedtime, helping to encourage a restful night’s sleep.

Essential Oils for Sleepy Shower Bombs
Let’s explore the essential oils needed for lavender shower tablets:

  • 100 drops lavender essential oil
  • 40 drops chamomile essential oil
  • 40 drops neroli essential oil

Other Materials for DIY Lavender Shower Melts


These stress-relief shower melts are customized with blue mica and dried cornflower petals. This shower steamer recipe for sleep would also look beautiful with violet mica and dried lavender buds.

Alternatively, you could use blue spirulina powder as a natural colorant.

How to Use Shower Melts

Here are some tips for using shower tablets:

  1. Place the DIY shower melts away from direct water and the drain. Ideally, only the bottom of the tablets should get wet. A soap dish is a great option for holding the shower melt.
  2. Breathe deeply as the essential oils vaporize into the air, and enjoy the aromatherapy experience.

How Long Do Shower Melts Last?
Small shower melts, like the ones I created for this post, typically last for one shower, and possibly two, depending on their placement and the duration of your shower.

How Do You Make Shower Melts Last Longer?
To extend the life of your shower melts, keep them out of direct water flow. If they get too wet, they will fizz away quickly, and the essential oils will dissipate too fast.

Using kaolin clay in the recipe also helps prolong their duration by slowing the reaction between the baking soda and citric acid.

Can You Use a Shower Bomb as a Bath Bomb?
No, it is not safe to use shower melts as bath bombs. Shower steamers are designed to infuse the air with essential oils and are not meant for skin contact.

Essential oils are not water-soluble, meaning that if you add them to bathwater, they will pool on the surface, which can lead to irritation and skin rashes. Bath bombs typically contain an emulsifier that safely distributes essential oils in the water, whereas shower steamers do not include such agents.

For more information about essential oil bath safety, check out this article by the Tisserand Institute.

Homemade shower melts: a lovely beauty and wellness gift idea

Shower Steamers as Unique Homemade Gifts

Tips for Packaging Shower Melts for Gifting
When preparing your DIY shower melts as gifts, it’s essential to store them properly to maintain their quality. Here are some packaging tips:

  • Airtight Containers: Keep your shower melts in an airtight container or jar to protect them from moisture, heat, and direct sunlight. A dry cupboard is an ideal storage location.
  • Cute Packaging Ideas: Consider using 4oz quilted mason jars or flip-top jars for a charming presentation. These containers not only look appealing but also ensure that your shower melts stay fresh.

Shower Bomb Favors for Weddings and Parties

Shower bombs make for thoughtful and budget-friendly favors for weddings and parties. You can easily package two to three shower melts in a small organza or muslin bag, then attach a thank-you tag for a beautiful and memorable wedding favor!

Wellness Gift Set

Incorporate your shower bombs into a wellness gift set! They make a delightful addition to a pamper hamper and are a unique gift idea for natural beauty enthusiasts.

For more beauty and wellness gift inspirations, consider adding chocolate rose bath truffles, a luxurious milk and honey bath soak, or refreshing pink lemonade tub tea to your collection.

Printable labels and gift tags

This homemade shower melts recipe comes with free printable labels and gift tags, perfect for packaging and gifting!

The round printable labels are specifically designed to fit the lids of 4 oz mason jars. The gift tags feature thoughtful sayings for various occasions and holidays.

To access the free printable PDF, simply sign up using the email form below. Once you confirm your email, you’ll receive immediate access.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, making your own aromatherapy shower melts is not only a fun and rewarding DIY project but also a fantastic way to enhance your daily shower routine. With simple ingredients and customizable essential oil blends, you can create shower tablets tailored to your mood, whether you’re seeking energy, relaxation, or relief from colds. These delightful shower melts can also serve as thoughtful gifts for friends and family, packaged beautifully with the included labels and tags. So why not indulge in a little self-care and create your own shower melts today? Transform your showers into a soothing escape and elevate your wellness experience, one melt at a time!

HOW TO DECONGEST NOSE QUICKLY AT HOME

Having a stuffy nose is not fun—it makes it hard to breathe and can make you feel tired. Whether it’s because of allergies, a cold that just won’t go away, or problems with your sinuses, dealing with a blocked nose can be a real challenge. But don’t worry, there are simple things you can do at home to help clear up your nose and feel better. Check out the easy and effective methods below to treat your stuffy nose and say goodbye to that annoying feeling.

HOW TO UNBLOCK YOUR NOSE INSTANTLY NATURALLY

STEAM INHALATION

If you’ve got a blocked nose and want a fast and natural way to fix it, try steam inhalation. Here’s what you do: heat up some water in a pot until it’s making lots of steam. Then, lean over the pot, cover your head with a towel like a tent, and breathe in the steam slowly. The warm steam goes into your nose and helps to make the sticky stuff inside (that’s the mucus) wet and loose. When that happens, you can breathe more easily. It’s like a quick and cozy way to unblock your nose!

SALINE NASAL RINSE

For a quick and effective way to get relief from nasal congestion, consider using a saline nasal rinse. This method works wonders by flushing out extra mucus and irritants from your nasal passages. To make the saline solution, mix a teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water. You can use a neti pot or a nasal spray to gently irrigate your nostrils with this soothing mixture. The saline solution helps to clear away congestion, making it easier to breathe, while also ensuring that your nasal passages stay moist for ongoing comfort. It’s a straightforward yet powerful remedy for instant relief from nasal discomfort.

WARM COMPRESS

If your nose is feeling all stuffed up and you want a fast way to feel better, try using a warm compress. Here’s what you do: take a warm towel and put it on your face, especially on the bridge of your nose and cheeks. The warmth from the towel helps to calm down any swelling and makes your blood flow better. This double effect quickly helps to clear your nose, making it easier to breathe. The nice warm feeling also makes you feel cozy and comfortable. So, using a warm compress is an easy and good way to make your nose feel better in no time!

EUCALYPTUS OIL

You’re wondering how to unstop nose, considering the soothing power of Eucalyptus Oil. This natural remedy has properties that can be particularly helpful in alleviating nasal congestion. To use it, add a few drops of Eucalyptus Oil to a bowl of hot water and inhale the aromatic steam deeply. Alternatively, you can add a few drops to a carrier oil and gently massage it onto your chest. The refreshing scent of Eucalyptus Oil helps open up your nasal passages, making it easier to breathe. Its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties may also contribute to relieving nasal congestion. This simple and aromatic solution can be a quick and pleasant way to find relief from a stuffy nose.

HYDRATION

You’re searching for a swift and natural solution on how to clear a stuffy nose fast, look no further than staying well-hydrated. Drinking plenty of fluids, especially water, can work wonders in relieving nasal congestion. Adequate hydration helps to keep the mucous membranes in your nasal passages moist, preventing them from becoming dry and irritated. This, in turn, aids in thinning out mucus and making it easier to expel. Hot beverages like herbal teas or warm water with a touch of honey can be particularly soothing. Additionally, the steam from these beverages can provide added relief by opening up your nasal passages. So, when faced with a stuffy nose, remember that a simple yet effective way to find relief is to keep yourself hydrated throughout the day.

NASAL MASSAGE

This simple technique involves using your fingertips to apply gentle pressure and circular motions to specific areas around your nose and sinus regions. Begin by massaging the bridge of your nose with a light touch, then move outward towards your cheeks. Continue with small circular motions on the sides of your nostrils and under your eyes. Nasal massage can help stimulate blood flow, reduce inflammation, and promote drainage, making it easier for your nasal passages to clear. It’s a natural and comforting method that you can easily incorporate into your routine to find relief from nasal congestion and enhance your overall comfort.

PEPPERMINT OIL

Consider the inhalation of peppermint oil, a natural remedy known for its effectiveness. To use, carefully place one or two drops of peppermint oil onto a tissue or cotton ball. Bring the scented material close to your nose and inhale deeply. The menthol present in peppermint oil works with a cooling effect that not only invigorates but also helps to widen and clear the nasal passages. This straightforward yet powerful method harnesses the aromatic properties of peppermint oil to provide quick and refreshing relief from congestion, making it easier to breathe and promoting a sense of nasal clarity.

SPICY FOODS

Eating spicy foods with hot peppers can be a tasty and helpful way to fight a stuffy nose. The special stuff in these spicy foods makes heat, and that heat helps to make the gooey stuff in your nose thinner. This makes it easier to breathe because the thin goo can come out more easily. Besides making your food more exciting, the warmth from the spices also acts like a natural medicine that helps clear your nose. So, if you want a yummy way to feel better when your nose is blocked, try adding some spicy flavors to your meals.

HOW TO UNBLOCK NOSE IN THREE MINUTES

ONION: Believe it or not, onions can be a simple yet effective remedy for a stuffy nose. Onions contain compounds that have natural anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. When you cut an onion, it releases sulfur compounds into the air, and inhaling these compounds can help open up your nasal passages and reduce congestion. Additionally, onions have a pungent aroma that may trigger your nose to produce more mucus, helping to clear out the congestion. To harness this natural remedy, try incorporating onions into your meals or placing a sliced onion in your living space to breathe in the beneficial compounds and find relief from a stuffy nose.

HONEY: Honey is not just tasty; it’s also good for your health, especially when dealing with a stuffy nose. It’s full of important stuff like vitamins and minerals, and it can fight off bacteria. Honey can help soothe your nose, throat, and clear out extra mucus. Try mixing two tablespoons of honey with warm water to unclog your nose. You can also add honey to milk or tea to feel better when you’re not well.

GARLIC: Garlic is like a superhero for your immune system because it has lots of antioxidants. These antioxidants help your immune system get stronger by making more white blood cells. These white blood cells are like your body’s warriors that fight off germs and help you stay healthy. Garlic also helps your body make antibodies, which are like shields against respiratory problems. A simple way to enjoy garlic’s benefits is by adding some garlic cloves or crushed garlic to hot soup. Doing this at least twice a day can be a tasty and healthy way to support your immune system.

GRAPEFRUIT EXTRACT: Because they have lots of vitamin C and antioxidants that make your immune system stronger. Inside grapes, there’s this powerful thing called Quercetin, which helps fight against allergies. For a super easy way to use grapes for health, try adding a few drops of grapefruit extract to warm water. When you breathe in the steam from this extract, it can quickly clear your blocked nose. It’s a simple trick that can make you feel better in no time!

CIDER VINEGAR: Apple cider vinegar has all the important nutrients your body needs to find relief from a stuffy nose. It’s not just that – it also fights against bacteria and fungi. For a simple remedy, mix 2 teaspoons of apple cider vinegar with warm water and drink it at least three times a day. If you want to make it even more soothing, you can add a tablespoon of honey to this drink. This mixture provides your body with the goodness it needs to help clear up that annoying stuffiness and feel better.

STUFFY NOSE IN BABIES AND KIDS

A blocked nose in babies and young children is something that happens a lot and can be worrying for both the child and the parents. In this discussion, we’ll look into what might be causing it, effective ways to make it better, and strategies to bring relief to infants and kids dealing with a stuffy nose.

CAUSES OF STUFFY NOSE IN BABIES AND KIDS

Common Cold: One of the primary reasons for a stuffy nose in babies and children is the common cold. Cold viruses can cause inflammation and increased mucus production in the nasal passages. 

Allergies: Allergens such as pollen, dust mites, or pet dander can trigger allergic reactions in children, leading to a stuffy nose in kids. 

Dry Air: Dry air, especially during the winter months when indoor heating is in use, can dry out the nasal passages, making it difficult for children with stuffy noses to breathe comfortably.

Environmental Irritants: Exposure to environmental irritants like cigarette smoke or strong odors can irritate the nasal passages and cause congestion in kids.

HOME REMEDIES AND RELIEF

HUMIDIFIER

To help with a stuffy nose, try using a humidifier in your child’s room. It puts moisture in the air, which stops the nose from getting too dry and gives relief to kids with stuffy noses. Just make sure the humidifier is clean and taken care of.

ELEVATING THE HEAD

For little ones with stuffy noses, you can lift one end of the crib a little. This helps the mucus drain better. If your child is older, using extra pillows can have a similar effect in easing congestion.

STEAMY BATHROOM

Make a steamy place by running a hot shower and sitting in the bathroom with your child for a few minutes. The steam helps to loosen the mucus and makes it easier for kids to breathe when they have a stuffy nose.

ALLERGY MANAGEMENT

If allergies are causing your child’s stuffy nose, figure out what they are allergic to and try to keep them away from it. Talk to a doctor if you need help finding out what your child is allergic to.

WHEN TO GET HELP

I hope these home tricks for a blocked nose help you feel better. But sometimes, you might not feel any better, and that’s okay. Here are a few things to think about that might mean you need to see a doctor:

  1. If your nose stays blocked for more than 5 days, it could be a sign of something more serious.
  2. If you find it really hard to breathe, whether it’s through your nose or mouth.
  3. If you have extra problems like green mucus, feeling tight in your chest, and a bad cough.
  4. If your stuffy nose comes with headaches, ear pain, or face pain, it might mean something more serious.
  5. If you have a fever and a stuffy nose, and they don’t go away even after trying home tricks and medicine.

These signs could show a serious infection or some other problem. Talk to your doctor or go see them soon if you have these signs.

FAQ

1. Where do you massage to unblock your nose?

Use your index and middle fingers or thumbs to massage the sides of your nose, between your cheekbones and upper jaw. Apply gentle circular pressure for about 30 seconds to a minute.

2. How do you sleep with a stuffy nose?

Lifting your head while sleeping might lessen congestion sensations.

3. How long does a blocked nose last?

If a cold is the cause, a stuffy nose typically improves within 5 to 7 days but may take up to 2 weeks in young children.

CONCLUSION

These simple and effective home remedies provide practical solutions for how to unclog your nose instantly at home. Whether through steam inhalation, saline rinses, or other natural methods, incorporating these practices into your routine can offer quick relief from nasal congestion. Remember to choose the remedy that suits you best and make it a part of your self-care routine to keep your nasal passages clear and your breathing comfortable.