shower after ice bath

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!

8 KEY TIPS FOR DECORATING A NAVY BLUE BATHROOM ON A TIGHT BUDGET

If you’ve found your way here, you’re probably eager to learn how to decorate a navy blue bathroom—especially on a budget! Do you dream of creating a spa-like retreat but worry about the hefty price tag that often comes with bathroom makeovers?

Great news! You can easily transform your plain navy blue bathroom into a serene sanctuary without spending a fortune. No need to hire an interior designer; these simple and affordable tips will help you create the soothing space you’re after.

In this article, I’ll share eight budget-friendly ideas to help you achieve the spa-like navy blue bathroom of your dreams. From enhancing your lighting to adding greenery for a touch of nature, I’ve got all the inspiration you need. Whether it’s a powder room, guest bath, small bathroom, or master bath, these tips will help you turn it into a luxurious oasis—without breaking the bank. Let’s get started!

UPGRADE YOUR LIGHTING

To create a spa-like atmosphere in your bathroom, start by upgrading the lighting. Swap out harsh overhead fixtures for soft, ambient lighting that promotes relaxation. Installing dimmer switches allows you to easily adjust the brightness to suit your mood.

Add candles for a cozy glow and calming fragrance, and consider incorporating LED strip lights around your mirror or vanity for a sleek, modern touch. The right lighting can completely transform your bathroom, making it feel like a serene, luxurious spa retreat.

INCORPORATE SPA-LIKE DECOR

To truly turn your navy blue bathroom into a spa-like retreat, the right decor is key. A few simple touches can go a long way in creating a serene and luxurious atmosphere.

Wondering how to achieve a spa-like bathroom on a budget? Start by investing in high-quality, fluffy towels in neutral shades like white or beige. Not only will they look elegant, but they’ll also feel soft and comforting on your skin. Introducing natural elements such as plants and stones can enhance the calming ambiance. A small potted plant or a tray with carefully placed pebbles can bring a touch of nature into your space, boosting air quality and promoting relaxation.

Don’t overlook the finer details, either. Organize bathroom essentials like cotton balls and Q-tips in clear glass jars for a sleek, uniform look. Upgrade your soap dispenser and toothbrush holder to chic, modern designs for a polished feel.

By incorporating these affordable decor elements, you’ll transform your navy blue bathroom into a true spa-like oasis. With greenery added in the next section, your bathroom will become a natural sanctuary right in your home.

MARBLE COUNTERTOPS

Marble countertops can give your bathroom a luxurious feel without the hefty price tag. The DIY marble countertop trend has gained popularity, offering an affordable way to achieve the elegant look of marble. For those who enjoy DIY projects, installing a marble countertop is a relatively simple task that requires just a few tools.

Depending on the size of the area, the installation process takes only a few hours and can significantly enhance the look of your bathroom. Not only will it create a high-end, stylish appearance, but it will also save you money—funds you can use for other projects or simply put into savings.

Additionally, you’ll have the freedom to customize the marble countertop to match your personal style. With the right supplies and a bit of time, you can achieve a stunning, personalized finish that’s sure to impress anyone who steps into your bathroom.

CHANGE OUT THE HARDWARE

Many people assume that upgrading fixtures in a navy bathroom requires a significant investment of time and money. Fortunately, that’s not the case! With a limited budget and minimal effort, you can easily create a spa-like oasis, and updating your bathroom hardware is one of the quickest ways to achieve this.

Start by replacing the fixtures. A new set of taps for the sink or bathtub can completely transform the look of your bathroom. With a wide variety of styles and finishes available, it’s easy to find something that complements your desired aesthetic. For a modern look, opt for lighter metals like chrome or brushed nickel. If you’re going for a more classic, old-world feel, consider oil-rubbed bronze or copper. The options are endless, making it simple to find the perfect fit for your space.

Another quick and easy upgrade is swapping out towel rods. Like fixtures, towel rods come in a wide range of styles and are fairly simple to install yourself. Instead of standard bars, consider swing-arm designs, ornate rods with intricate detailing, or even options with built-in shelves to maximize space.

These small changes can have a big impact, helping you transform your bathroom into a stylish and relaxing retreat without breaking the bank.

WALLPAPER

Revamping your bathroom doesn’t have to be daunting—simple touches like paint or wallpaper can effortlessly elevate a plain space into a spa-like retreat. Imagine stepping into a chic, navy blue oasis with soothing hues and textures, creating a relaxing atmosphere that lets you escape without leaving home.

A fresh coat of paint or some stylish wallpaper can instantly make your bathroom feel larger and more inviting. Thoughtful use of color and pattern can create visual interest, while contrasting shades can bring out your unique style. Try a contrasting border for your walls and ceiling to add elegance, or create an accent wall to highlight a specific area of the room. For a more subtle look, stick to a cohesive color palette with varying shades and tones.

Wallpaper is another great option to introduce texture and character. From wood-inspired designs to shimmering stone effects, the choices are nearly endless. If you’re feeling bold, use striking patterns or prints sparingly, such as on a single accent wall, to create a focal point without overwhelming the space.

Ultimately, painting or wallpapering your bathroom is an affordable, easy way to inject personality and transform the atmosphere. With the right tools and a bit of creativity, you can turn your bathroom into a luxurious, spa-like escape without spending a fortune.

ADD GREENERY FOR A NATURAL TOUCH

Incorporating a touch of greenery can instantly bring an organic feel to your navy blue bathroom. Not only do plants purify the air and create a calming atmosphere, but they also provide a refreshing pop of color to balance the neutral tones.

Try placing a small succulent on your bathroom counter or install floating shelves to showcase a few hanging plants. If maintenance is a concern, choose low-maintenance options like snake plants or spider plants. With the addition of greenery, your bathroom will become a tranquil, natural retreat, perfect for unwinding after a long day.

MAXIMIZE YOUR STORAGE SPACE

To create a true spa-like oasis in your navy blue bathroom, maximizing storage is essential. Clutter can quickly disrupt the calming atmosphere you’re aiming for, so keeping everything neatly organized and out of sight is key.

Consider installing shelves or cabinets to store hand towels and toiletries. A shower caddy or built-in niche is a great way to keep shampoo and soap off the floor, while drawer organizers in your vanity can prevent makeup and small items from becoming disorganized.

Stylish storage solutions can also enhance the overall aesthetic of your bathroom. Woven baskets for towels or sleek metal shelves for decorative items can blend function with design. With the right storage in place, your bathroom will feel more open and inviting, making it the perfect retreat for unwinding after a long day.

Incorporating stylish storage options is not only practical but also elevates the look and feel of your bathroom. Whether it’s woven baskets or modern metal shelves, organizing your essentials will help create a serene, relaxing space.

INVEST IN LUXURIOUS BATH LINENS

If you’re looking to elevate your bathroom transformation, investing in luxurious bath linens is a simple yet effective way to do it. This is one of the easiest ways to enhance the decor of a navy blue bathroom!

Soft, plush towels and bath mats can instantly make every shower or bath feel like a spa experience, while adding an elegant touch to your space. And, if you fold them the way spas and hotels do, you’ll create that upscale, relaxing vibe at home.

When selecting bath linens, opt for high-quality materials like Egyptian cotton or bamboo. These fabrics are renowned for their softness and durability, making them a great investment in your everyday routine.

With a wide range of colors and patterns available, you can easily find linens that complement your current decor or introduce a splash of color to your navy blue bathroom.

CONCLUSION

Decorating a navy blue bathroom on a budget can be a fun and rewarding challenge. By following these eight key tips, you can create a stylish and inviting space without breaking the bank. Remember to focus on affordable materials, DIY projects, and creative repurposing. With a little imagination and effort, you can transform your bathroom into a luxurious oasis that reflects your personal style.