How Bath Bombs Are Made (Plus Fan Favorites)
November 24, 2022

Bath bombs have become the ultimate fun luxury in the bath and body world, as people of all ages throw fun colors and glorious scents into the tub to catch that moment of relaxation after a hard day. Whether you’re looking for something bright pink and floral or more interested in a soothing Shea butter white, there’s a bath bomb out there for you.

One of the most well-known brands on the market, Lush, decided to show the world how their bath bombs were made. They have a few secrets they weren’t willing to share, like the components of their “bubble mix,” but they did share that they start with baking soda. They then add their bubble mix and highly concentrated essential oils, ranging from citrus to musk, vanilla to rose, and everything in between. Into that mixture, they pour highly pigmented dye, very hot water, and a touch of citric acid. They pack two sides of a mold with the original color mixture and add an additional color in the middle. Often, they add glitter or some other fun surprise on one side, like stars or flower petals. It all depends on which bath bomb they’re making.

Once the mold is full, they press it, and everything dries together, ready to hit the market. It sounds simple, but this isn’t a mass factory production. These bath bombs are incredibly pricy (some selling for as much as $13 per piece) because they are all handmade. Still, Lush has cornered the market for good reason: they offer a wide variety that smells amazing, has a fun swirl once it hits the water (thank you mysterious bubble mix), and leaves your skin super soft.

This industry has a few other key players, such as Da Bomb, Bulk Apothecary, Pearl Bath Bombs, and Hugo Naturals. It’s expected to grow into a $350+ million market in the US alone by 2025, proving that millions of people love these luxury bath and body products. We’ve listed the top bath bombs from each producer below, starting with Lush, so you know where to start on your own bath bomb or gifting journey.

Lush, Groovy Kind of Love ($8)

This rainbow-colored bath bomb is a fan favorite with its bright colors and woodsy citrus scents. It smells like bergamot, ylang-ylang, and rosewood and melts into a gorgeous honey-colored orange once the swirling is done.

Da Bomb Bath Glow Bomb ($8)

It’s no surprise that the ability to make your bath glow in the dark is the top seller for this company. The secret is a water-activated light at the center of the bath bomb. It has a honeydew scent that fans adore and an out-of-this-world galactic green color.

Bulk Apothecary Breathe Easy ($3.50)

This subtly colored eucalyptus-infused bath bomb is perfect for days when you want simple relaxation. It disperses coconut oil for a skin-softening experience that keeps fans coming back for more.

Pearl Bath Bomb Salted Hot Cocoa ($8)

Scented like hot chocolate, this bath bomb is as beautiful as it smells. It’s infused with cocoa butter and Himalayan salt, making it the ultimate bath time experience. Pearl has made their name by adding fun CZ rings to each of their bath bombs, much to the delight of any recipient.

Hugo Naturals Fizzy Bath Bomb Lavender and Vanilla ($4)

This beautiful purple bath bomb is perfect for a quick pick me up at the end of a long day. Lavender and vanilla combine for a truly spa-like experience right in your very own tub. Unlike the other companies on this list, these can be found at your local grocery store.