The Ultimate Guide to Bath Bombs: What They Are & How to Use Them

July 31, 2025

Bath bombs have transformed self-care routines everywhere, turning ordinary tubs into fizzy, fragrant escapes. But what exactly is a bath bomb, and how do you make the most of one? Let us dive into everything you need to know, from how they work to why you should use precautions.

What Are Bath Bombs?

Bath bombs are compact blends of baking soda, citric acid, oils, and colourants that fizz and dissolve when dropped into water. Some bath bombs can contain Epsom salts, botanicals, herbs etc. They create an instant spa-like experience, infusing your bath with colour, skin-softening ingredients, and an indulge your scents all while turning your tub into a visual treat.

How to Use a Bath Bomb

Using a bath bomb is simple, just fill your tub with warm water, drop the bomb in. We would recommend you bloom the bath bomb first. What does this mean? Once the tub is filled up to your liking hold the bath bomb on top of the water. This reaction is called blooming it will puff up. Simply swirl the foam into the tub and step in and enjoy the fizzing show as it releases color, fragrance, and skin-loving ingredients.

To get the most from your bath and stay safe:

Add your bath bomb after the tub is full and bath bomb blooms. You can also add it to the running water if you hold it under. ( keep in mind if you do it this way, the bath bomb will dissolve pretty quickly)

Soak for 20 to 30 minutes to enjoy the full effect.

Rinse your skin thoroughly after use. ( Recommended )

Be cautious please, your tub may become slippery due to the oils and butters in the bomb.

Precautions

While bath bombs are a fun and relaxing way to treat yourself, it is important to use them responsibly. These products are not recommended for children under the age of 4. Some bath bombs contain essential oils or fragrances that may not be suitable for everyone especially citrus oils like sweet orange or lemon and peppermints, which can increase sun sensitivity. Avoid sunbathing immediately after use.

If you have sensitive skin, allergies, or medical conditions, consult your doctor before using bath bombs. Also, avoid using them before or after swimming in chlorinated pools, as chlorine may intensify skin irritation.

Overexposure to fragranced or long soaking sessions may not suit everyone. If you are prone to urinary tract infections (UTIs), monitor how your body responds and avoid prolonged use. Know your limits and your comfort as safety must come first.

Why Our Bath Bombs Stand Out

At Bathbomb & Garnish Studio, we are passionate about quality and creativity. Our bath bombs are handcrafted in small batches using cosmetic-safe micas, paraben, and phthalate-free fragrance oils, and in some cases, a touch of essential oils.

We also use * Sorbitan Oleate Decylglucoside Crosspolymer. Do not let that name fool you! This gentle raw plant-based emulsifier is also known as Poly Suga Mulse D9. It’s a natural, PEG-free alternative to Polysorbate 80." This helps for easier blending of oil-soluble ingredients like essential oils, fragrance oils and helps the colours from sticking to your tub.