by Jenn |
Last Updated: July 14, 2019 When you buy something using the links on our posts, we may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. Learn more.
Bath bombs can turn your regular old tub into a first-class spa—adding scents that soothe and colors that calm. We’ve analysed the myriad options on offer and distilled them into one short, simple list.
And read to the end for quick tips on how to find the perfect bomb.
The Top 10 Bath Bombs
Best Bath Bombs for Women
Bubble Bombs by Two Sisters Spa
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For long-lasting bubbles, we love this set from Two Sisters Spa. The bubble line features three types of bombs to choose from. You can even pick an “Oops Assortment.”
Each bomb is a whopping 4.5 to 5 ounces, much larger than normal. The Bubble Bombs are handmade by moms in Minnesota, who create small batches at a time.
As soon as the bomb hits the water, it will fizz and turn into bubbles. A blend of witch hazel and olive oil will be released, along with a soothing fragrance. All the colors used are water-based, and there are only natural ingredients.
Now for the fun part. The Bubble Bombs come in unique designs—our favorite is the birthday cake. It’s super cute with its bright pink base and sprinkles on top – all it needs is a candle. As the birthday bomb fizzes away, your water will become bright pink.
The next design is called “Blooming Jasmine.” It features a delicate swirling pattern with turquoise, white, and spring yellow. Blooming Jasmine will turn your bath water into a teal blue color.
The third is called “Caribbean Crush.” It has a soft yellow color with orange, pink, and yellow sprinkles on top. To give you a tropical experience, the bomb will release a fruity-banana fragrance blend.
One of the more significant concerns with colored bath bombs is the risk of it staining your tub. However, these are made with a water-based color only. They will, therefore, not stain you or your tub.
Pros
- Natural ingredients
- Water-based colors
- Long lasting bubbles
- Large size
- Hand-crafted
Cons
- Scent could be stronger
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Best Bath Bombs for Men
Black Bath Bomb by The Bath Bomb Co.
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This bomb from The Bath Bomb Co. is a dark and mysterious wonder.
It’s handmade in the USA and comes in an extra large size, weighing 7.5 ounces. As the bomb hits the water, a blend of essential oils such as coconut will be released. It will moisturize your skin and hair.
To help you relax after a hard day, the bomb also consists of Epsom salts. These are absorbed through the skin and quickly relieve tension and pain in muscles and joints.
Other natural ingredients found are sodium bicarbonate and citric acid. Baking soda will help to clean the skin while citric acid reduces the effects of aging. It also helps to loosen dead skin cells, leaving you feeling refreshed and invigorated.
Another important ingredient is kaolin clay. This mineral is often used in skin care products due to its healing effects. It purifies pores, exfoliates dead skin cells, and detoxes your skin.
Pros
- Extra large size
- Very fizzy
- Rejuvenating ingredients
- Won’t stain
Cons
- Features glitter. Partly defeats the masculine image the bomb otherwise projects
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Best Bath Bombs for Kids
Bath Bombs with Surprise Toys by Excalla
Some children love bath time but some others (like my little niece) will be wailing like a banshee and dragging their heels before they give in and take a bath. One birthday when I was hesitating to buy yet another toy set, I had a lightbulb moment and bought her a set of these bath bombs with surprise toys inside.
You guessed it. It was a hit, as much as her more expensive waterpark toys. The young ‘uns get very intrigued by the mystery gift and love the rainbow colors of the bath bombs. Voila! Tearless bath times.
The long and slow fizzing is a great reveal for the surprise toy inside. One box includes 12 bombs that are 2 inches in diameter each.
Check out the child-friendly scents you can get from each box:
Strawberry, Green Apple, Vanilla, Rose, Lemon, Ocean
Green Tea, Violet, Lavender, Mint, Chamomile, Eucalyptus
Because they are made with children in mind, these bath bombs are gluten-free and FDA approved. They’re made with good stuff like organic essential oils, virgin shea and coco butter, coconut oil, and epsom salts.
Pros
- Vegan and cruelty-free
- Toy surprise
- Fun colors and scents
- Individually-wrapped so you can give them out as single gifts in a party
Cons
- Not suitable for children under three years due to small toys that might become a choking hazard
Last update on 2023-04-01 at 17:21 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API / More info
Bath Bombs for Couples
Bubble Fizzies by LuxSpa
For couples who enjoy a romantic bath once in a while, we highly recommend this packet from LuxSpa. It includes six large bombs, and each one is 4.1 ounces.
All the bombs are handmade with natural and vegan ingredients. They’re parabens and cruelty-free.
LuxSpa has incorporated Dead sea salt. Dead sea salt is known for containing beneficial minerals. The bath bombs also consist of several moisturizers, such as shea butter, cocoa butter, and sunflower oil.
Essential oils give the bath a pleasant scent and create an aromatherapeutic experience. You and your partner can relax while soaking up some much-needed vitamin E.
You get six unique bombs that each has its benefits:
- Garden of Heaven: Is a blue color that consists of soothing lavender, lime, and geranium oils.
- Vanilla Indulgence: Has a rich purple flare and incorporates a blend of vanilla and essential oils for a sweet treat.
- Stress Relief: This really is relieving with its earthy-green color and mix of lavender, marjoram, and Ylang oils.
- Yoga Strength: A yellow-blend of lime, lemon, orange, and bergamot oils.
- Revive: This orange-bombshell is packed with peppermint, lemon, rosemary, eucalyptus, and essential oils.
- Energy Grapefruit: A fruit famous for its energizing abilities, this bomb is loaded with grapefruit essential oil.
Pros
- Moisturizing ingredients
- Brings aromatherapy to your bathroom
- Six unique bombs, one for each mood
- Incorporates Dead sea salt
Cons
- Not XXL as advertised
- VARIETY - Set includes six bath bombs: Garden of Heaven, Energy Grapefruit, Vanilla Indulgence, Revive, Stress Relief, Yoga Strength
- PERFECT GIFT IDEA. The best gift set for Father's Day gifts, birthday gift, gifts for her, spa/bath gifts, for the special one, perfect...
- SKIN CARE. Handmade, vegan bath bombs with natural ingredients. Paraben free and cruelty free
Last update on 2023-04-01 at 17:21 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API / More info
Best Bath Bomb Kit
Bath Bomb Making Kit by DIY Gift Kits
Nothing says, “I care about you,” more than a self-made gift. With this kit, you’ll get everything you need to create bath bomb gifts that will be a real hit.
The kit includes enough components to make 12 bombs in the shape of cupcakes. Everything is pre-measured, so all you have to do is mix and shape it. Ingredients consist of citric acid, baking soda, Epsom salt, and cornstarch.
Bath bomb kits can sometimes contain artificial scents that are too strong or weak. This kit uses only pure essential oils to create a real aromatherapeutic experience. The oils included are lavender, lemon, grapefruit, and eucalyptus.
To further help you create the perfect cupcake-bomb, DIY Gift Kits has included a recipe card. Along with the recipe, you’ll also get a few tips to help you along.
Pros
- Pure essential oils
- GMO-free and pharmaceutical grade ingredients
- Makes 12 bombs
- This is a great starting point if you want to DIY your own bath bombs in the future and buy your own ingredients
Cons
- Doesn’t include colors. The box comes with an instruction card on what natural colorants to use or you can skip it altogether in case you have very sensitive skin. Some natural colorants include flower petals, tangerine leaves, or food coloring.
- All natural and made in the USA: This make-your-own bath bomb kit includes pure essential oils, Epsom salts, baking soda and other natural...
- 100% pure essential oils: Comes with a set of lavender, lemon, eucalyptus and grapefruit oils, to offer a broad spectrum of enjoyment. No...
- Self-care miracle: Soaking with a bath bomb made using this kit is a therapeutic experience, thanks to the magnesium found in Epsom salts,...
Last update on 2023-04-01 at 03:01 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API / More info
Bath Bombs for Sensitive Skin
Bombe La La La by Pure Sanctum
People with sensitive skin often struggle to find products that won’t cause a reaction. However, with this set of six bath bombs from Pure Sanctum, you can feel at ease.
The bombs are fully vegan and GMO-free. They consist of Dead Sea salt, almond oil, and coconut oil to moisturize and rejuvenate your skin. Shea butter is also one of the main ingredients; it’s high in vitamin A, which soothes the skin.
The bombs are white, there’s no added coloring to irritate sensitive skin. Witch hazel oil, that has natural antiseptic properties—commonly used to treat acne, has been added.
You get six large 6-ounce bombs—luxuriously decorated in Paris-inspired white and black decor. Each bomb is carefully wrapped in thin paper and placed in a decorative box.
The six bombs each have its benefits and unique scent:
- Shoot the Breeze: Is a de-stress relaxer made with a blend of sage, eucalyptus, ginger, and mint—a refreshing end to a stressful day.
- Coco Bombe: This bomb lets you indulge in a moisturizing haven of pure coconut milk.
- The Big Easy: Lavender is known for its relaxing qualities, and you get lots of it in this bomb. It’s packed with French lavender and even has fresh buds incorporated.
- Drama Queen: Is a divalicious mix of champagne grapes, grapefruit, plums, and natural rose petals.
- Shea Bliss: A pampering blend of milk, honey, and almonds to bring moisture back into your skin.
- Oceans 11: If you’re craving summer and sea, this mix of orange and pink rose can make your tub feel like the tropics.
Pros
- Six individual bombs
- No added color
- Natural ingredients that focus on skin health
- Vegan and GMO-free
Cons
- Leaves a small amount of residue
- RELAX WITH BREATHTAKING SCENTS: Bombelalala Christmas bath bombs set for women is made using the finest natural ingredients to soothe, relax...
- LARGE, ORGANIC BATH BOMBS: This is a collection of individually wrapped large, relaxing bathbombs that will help you leave your day behind...
- LOVINGLY CRAFTED BATH BOMBS KIT: These bath products are made are all vegan and cruelty-free. Our bath bombs contain no harsh chemicals, no...
Last update on 2023-03-27 at 14:38 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API / More info
Best Bath Bombs on Amazon
Bath Bomb Gift Set by LifeAround2Angels
Having a stock of bath bombs can come in handy—especially if you’re a frequent bather. This gift set from LifeAround2Angels comes with 12 one-of-a-kind bombs.
Each bath bomb is handcrafted in California. They feature all-natural components and colors that won’t stain you or your tub.
The bombs are made for normal to dry skin. Among the ingredients, you’ll find citric acid, shea butter, organic coconut oil, and koalin clay. The colors are cosmetics safe, and some of the bombs are topped with flower petals.
You will find a different refreshing scent with each bomb, these are:
Black Raspberry Vanilla, Angel, Kiwi & Strawberry, Love, Mango Papaya, Melon Ball
Victorian Rose, Fun in the Shower, Lavender, Lemongrass Green Tea, Shea & Coconut, Fun on the Beach
Pros
- 12 bombs at an affordable price
- All natural
- Moisturizing oils like olive and coconut
- Incorporates flower petals and glitter
Cons
- Smaller than other brands
- 12 uniquely handcrafted bath bombs. Functional and relaxing. Great Mothers day gifts.
- Truly made in California, USA freshly with premium USA natural ingredients - fizzes with colors, will not stain your tub!
- Therapeutic and Moisturizing bath bombs, formulated for Normal/Dry skin
Last update on 2023-04-01 at 17:21 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API / More info
Best Bath Bombs with Rings
Ring Set by Amor Bath Bombs
Finding the perfect present to tell that special someone just how special they are can be a challenge. Amor Bath Bombs has made the choice a little easier with this set of surprising bombs.
Each bomb has a beautiful sterling silver ring hiding inside. As it fizzes away, the ring will slowly appear, surprising the special someone in the tub.
The set features two colors: Orange and blue. The bombs each have a fresh fruity scent with a blend of bananas, grapefruit, kiwi, bubble gum, and strawberries.
They’re made with natural and vegan ingredients. A huge plus is that the bombs are 100 percent cruelty-free.
After retrieving your ring, you can soak up some moisturizing shea butter and vitamin E. The bombs are only 5 ounces, which is a good size, but not as grand as other brands.
Pros
- Cruelty-free
- Vegan and all natural
- Paraben and SLS free
- Refreshing scent
Cons
- The ring might tarnish over time
- Rings only come in one size (size 7)
Last update on 2023-04-01 at 14:09 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API / More info
Best Cheap Bath Bombs
Natural Bath Bombs Set by INTEYE
Bath bombs might be a luxury item, but that doesn’t mean you have to empty your pockets. This huge set by INTEYE provides you with a stock of bombs at the same price of a regular six-piece set.
The set comes with four individual boxes containing six bombs each. Each box contains these scents and colors:
- Summer Dream: This has an orange, yellow, and blue color and is rich in rose essential oil.
- Morning Rose: Is also rich in rose oil and has a special essence as well. The bomb has a yellow and red color.
- Ocean Pearl: Refresh yourself with a bath in mint essential oil. The bomb is blue and white.
- Good Night: Before bed, help yourself relax with this purple and green bomb enriched in lavender essential oil.
- Rainforest: This yellow and green bomb is rich in lemon essential oil.
- Lovely Cupid: Is enriched with lemon essential oil and milk. The bomb is red, white, and green.
The bombs are made with natural ingredients and pure essential oils. Even though the colors are strong, they won’t stain you or your tub.
Many bath bombs fizz and dissolve very quickly. But these are a little lighter, making them float for a while before dissolving completely.
Pros
- Affordable price
- Float effect
- Fun color combinations and scents
- Enough bath bombs to gift away
Cons
- Small; a bigger tub may require two
- 24 Bath Bombs Gift Set: Contains four small boxes, each with 6 different colors and fragrances, Perfect Birthday Mothers day Gifts idea For...
- There are Six Different Colors in Each Box: including Summer Dream - Yellow, Orange and Blue, rich in Rose essential oil; Morning Rose -...
- The Latest Formula: the latest ingredient ratio ensures good bubbling and floating effect. It will give you an amazing visual impression...
Last update on 2023-04-01 at 17:21 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API / More info
Best Organic Bath Bombs
Natural Bombs by Nurture Me Organics
Organic products are the best for our overall health. These bombs from Nurture Me Organics are made of 100 percent natural ingredients. There are no parabens, sulfates, chemicals, or bad coloring.
The bombs consist of moisturizing and nurturing components such as shea butter and vitamin A. To further improve your bath; the bombs are infused with natural essential oils that create an aromatic therapeutic experience.
You’ll get 24, 3-ounce bath bombs, enough to store and maybe gift away. The colors are bright, and you get two of each. Some of the names include Sun ‘N’ Sea, Euphoria, Soothe, Vitamin C, and Passion.
Many bath bombs can be heavily scented for women. However, these have fresh fragrances that are suitable for men and women—they’re also safe for children since they’re organic.
Pros
- Paraben, sulfate, and SLS free
- Non-staining
- Large set
- Consists of cocoa butter
Cons
- Scent isn’t long lasting
- Natural & Organic - Our Bath Bomb Set contains 24 bath fizzers with 100% good for you skin moisturizing ingredients. Absolutely no parabens,...
- Bath Bomb Gift Set of 24 HUGE Bath Bombs - Gift your loved ones with this elegant value pack of 24 bath bombs. This Spa Gift set includes a...
- Nurturing & Moisturizing for Your Skin - Infused with Shea Butter, a superior moisturizer with vitamin A that treats many skin conditions...
Last update on 2023-04-01 at 17:21 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API / More info
Where Did Bath Bombs Come From?
After seeing our list of the 10 best bath bombs, you probably know what they are. But you might still wonder where bath bombs started.
These fizzy balls might seem like a brand new invention, but the first bath bombs were actually created in 1989. They quickly became a staple of luxury with their vibrant colors, aromatic fragrances, and photogenic beauty.
Bath bombs were invented by Mo Constantine, co-founder of Lush. She was inspired by the fizzing action of Alka Seltzer and tried her version using citric acid and sodium bicarbonate.
Natural essential oils and nurturing ingredients like coconut oil were soon added. Lush has been leading the bath bomb-industry, creating large luscious balls that “explode” in your tub. Flower petals, vibrant colors, and glitter are just some of the extras you can find in today’s bombs.
Main Ingredients of Bath Bombs
The main components of bath bombs are sodium bicarbonate (baking soda), citric acid, corn starch, essential oils, and color. The colors used vary between brands, some use food coloring, while others use cosmetics-safe colors.
The combination of baking soda and citric acid is what gives the bombs that signature fizz as they hit the water.
One of the many reasons adults love bath bombs are the added essential oils and beneficial components. Some of our favorites include:
- Almond oil: This oil is anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting. It’s also excellent for dry skin and eczema.
- Lavender: The purple flower is antiseptic and has anti-inflammatory properties. Its scent is also very calming and useful for people dealing with insomnia and anxiety.
- Vanilla: This sweet ingredient is found in most bombs, but not just for its lovely scent. Getting a whiff of vanilla has shown to reduce stress and anxiety.
- Eucalyptus: For people who often experience joint or muscle pain, this ingredient should be prioritized. It’s analgesic and famous for reducing tension and pain.
- Dead Sea salt: This salt is high in magnesium, which improves skin hydration and skin barrier functions.
- Epsom salts: Also rich in magnesium, this salt is great for the skin and it can reduce stress.
Allergens
The essential oil often scents bath bombs. It’s important not to buy any bombs that are artificially perfumed since these could irritate your skin.
Even though a bath bomb is labeled 100 percent natural or all-organic, it’s important to consider allergens. If you’re sensitive to any particular ingredient, it’s crucial to check. Essential oils are concentrated versions of their natural product—effects can, therefore, be more severe.
Slippery Oils
We all love to soak up some moisturizing coconut oil and shea butter. But, these components could turn your tub into a slip and slide. If you often use bath bombs with added oils, be careful as you step out of the tub.
Are Bath Bombs Safe for Children?
They most definitely are, and bath bombs can make bath time even more fun. The fizzing effects and bright colors can quickly awaken a child’s imagination.
There are, however, a few things you should be aware of as a parent. Allergens are the first thing to consider, as we explained above. Children do have a more sensitive skin compared to adults, so a heavily perfumed bomb might not be good.
Children under the age of three shouldn’t be left unsupervised. The dissolving ball might look like fun candy, and even though the ingredients are natural, they shouldn’t be ingested.
Bath bombs with hidden toys should also be only be added under supervision. If the child is young, the small objects could become choking hazards.
Can I Make My Own?
Bath bombs are a popular DIY-craft. Since the components are mostly products you can find in your pantry, it’s relatively easy to do. Making your own creation is also the best way to ensure the quality of ingredients.
You can add your choice of essential oils and other beneficial components to suit your needs. It’s also an excellent way to use your creative side as you can play around with colors, shapes, and sizes.
Conclusion
Bath bombs are a great way to bring a little extra luxury into your everyday. The fizzy balls quickly dissolve as they hit the water, leaving you to soak up the beneficial oils.
Aromatherapy plays a significant role in bath bombs, as different scents can benefit various conditions like stress or anxiety. Bath bombs are also an excellent gift for anyone special in your life, and they can even be homemade.
Author: Jenn Miller
Don’t be fooled by her innocent baby face. Jenn’s a demanding shopper who WILL push each and every beauty product to its limit.