Shower steamers are an easy alternative to bath products for anyone who prefers showers.

They are not skincare products. Instead, they are designed to sit on the shower floor and gradually dissolve while the warm steam disperses their aroma.

How do they work?

The base contains:

• baking soda,

• citric acid.

When water reaches the steamer, the two ingredients react and begin to fizz.

Essential oils add the aromatic element.

Unlike bath bombs, shower steamers are not intended for soaking, rubbing onto the skin or direct body contact.

Lavender Lime Steam

A fresh aromatic shower steamer with lavender and lime

Ingredients for 200 g

• 120 g baking soda – 60%

• 60 g citric acid – 30%

• 16 g cornstarch – 8%

• 2 g lavender essential oil – 1%

• 2 g lime essential oil – 1%

Total: 200 g / 100%

Method

1. Thoroughly combine the baking soda, citric acid and cornstarch.

2. Add the essential oils and mix well.

3. Squeeze some of the mixture in your hand. If it does not hold together, very lightly mist it with distilled water or 96% ethanol.

4. Add liquid only a tiny amount at a time to avoid starting the fizzing reaction.

5. Press firmly into silicone moulds.

6. Leave in a dry place for at least 24 hours, or until completely hard.

7. Unmould and store immediately in an airtight container.

Use

Place one steamer on the shower floor, slightly away from the direct stream of water.

Allow occasional splashes to dissolve it gradually.

Do not use as a bath bomb or rub directly onto the skin.

Fresh Steam – Menthol & Lavender Shower Steamer

An intensely fresh aromatic shower ritual

Ingredients for 200 g

• 124 g baking soda – 62%

• 60 g citric acid – 30%

• 12 g cornstarch – 6%

• 2 g menthol crystals – 1%

• 2 g lavender essential oil – 1%

Total: 200 g / 100%

Method

1. Crush the menthol crystals finely.

2. Combine the baking soda, citric acid and cornstarch.

3. Add the menthol and mix thoroughly.

4. Add the lavender essential oil.

5. If necessary, very lightly mist with distilled water or 96% ethanol.

6. Pack firmly into silicone moulds.

7. Allow to dry for at least 24 hours.

8. Store in an airtight container away from moisture.

Use

Place one steamer on the shower floor away from the direct water stream.

Because this version has a stronger aroma, start with half of a large steamer if preferred.

Keep away from the eyes and face.

Storage

Moisture will start the fizzing reaction, so always keep the finished steamers:

• completely dry,

• in airtight packaging,

• away from bathroom steam,

• away from direct heat and sunlight.

Can they be coloured?

Yes, but colour is optional.

If used, choose a suitable cosmetic or bath-product colourant and use only a small amount.

For a first batch, plain white shower steamers are usually the easiest option.

A spa ritual without a bath

Shower steamers are a simple project that allows plenty of room for different fragrance combinations.

The key is to keep them completely dry until use and remember that they are designed to scent the shower environment rather than condition the skin.