Many bath product formulators will tell you that bath bombs are their most difficult product to create. Making bath bombs can be challenging especially when this is the first time that you are doing this. You may be wondering why it gets crumbly, why it breaks so easily, why it has some pre-fizzes, etc. This blog will answer those common problems that you encounter when making bath bombs for the first time.

Here are the common problems that you may encounter when making bath bombs:

Why is my bath bomb soft?

If your bath bomb is soft, the mixture may be too wet. To balance the texture, if you add too much witch hazel or oil during the mixing process, add more dry ingredients. If you live in a humid, wet climate, the moisture in the air can keep the bath bombs soft.

Add cream of tartar to your bath bomb recipe to make them harder. You can also cut back on the liquid or add kaolin clay. Bath bombs should be stored in airtight containers to keep moisture out.

Why does my bath bomb crumble?

If your bath bomb becomes crumbly, the mixture may be too dry. Adding more witch hazel or oils will make the mixture moister and less likely to crumble and crack when removed from the mold. If your bath bomb is cracking after being in the mold, it could be because the mixture was too wet and is expanding as it sits in the mold.

My bath bomb does not fizz

If your bath bomb isn't fizzing as much as you'd like, increase the amount of citric acid in your recipe. Begin with a solution of 2 parts baking soda to 1.5 parts citric acid. Furthermore, if you use cornstarch in your recipe, you can reduce the amount or eliminate it entirely. Fizzing can also be reduced if a lot of oil is used. The fizzing reaction of your bath bomb can be reduced if it comes into contact with moisture from the air or a damp environment. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap to keep moisture out.

How much oil and butter should I add?

Bath bombs with oils and butter have skin-loving properties. Some people enjoy the way oils feel in their bath water, while others would rather not use any at all. If you want to use oils and butter in your bath bombs, add them after the dry ingredients (baking soda and citric acid) have been thoroughly mixed and smooth. Before adding any solid butter to your mixture, make sure to melt them first. Using too much butter or oil can cause the bath bombs to remain soft.

If you've never used oil or butter in your recipe before but want to, start with.5 oz of oil per 1.5 cups of dry ingredients. Keep in mind that oils in the tub can cause a slippery tub when you get out, so be cautious when exiting the tub after an oil or butter-filled fizzy.

My bath bombs have lumps and bumps on the surface

A lumpy texture on your bath bomb is frequently caused by clumping in the dry components or failing to thoroughly incorporate the fragrance oil. Baking soda, in particular, clumps together. Break up huge clumps with your hands before applying oil, color, scent, or other additions. Pour the dry ingredients through a fine mesh sifter to remove and break up smaller clumps. This extra process results in a smooth texture. Bath bomb warts can also arise when the fizzy has an excessive amount of moisture. The problem is usually fragrance or essential oil, so mix thoroughly to ensure the wet is properly integrated into the dry.

Why does my bath bomb sinks to the bottom of the tub?

Many bath bomb creators consider spinning and floating bath bombs to be the ultimate grail. To do this, don't pack your mixture too tightly. When utilizing stainless steel molds, pour the mixture into the molds without packing it in. When using plastic clamshell molds, compress the mixture into the molds lightly but not too tightly. Oil is less thick than water, using a lot of butter and oil in your dish will also assist.

I hope these tips help!