DIY Eucalyptus Shower Steamers
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DIY Eucalyptus Shower Steamers for Cold and Flu Relief
If you feel like you’ve been battling that never-ending flu virus that seems to be going around, you are certainly not alone. There is nothing worse than that heavy, congested feeling where you just can’t seem to catch your breath or clear your head. When you’re stuck in the house and feeling under the weather, sometimes the best medicine is a little bit of self-care and the luxury of scent.
I’m a huge believer in the power of a hot shower to help reset the body. But why settle for just steam when you can turn your bathroom into a high-end spa? These DIY Eucalyptus Shower Steamers are my go-to “secret weapon” whenever my family feels a sniffle coming on. They are essentially bath bombs for your shower, designed to dissolve slowly and release powerful, sinus-clearing vapors.
The Benefits of Steam and Eucalyptus
Have you ever wondered why we gravitate toward a hot shower when we’re sick? It’s because the benefits of steam are scientifically backed to help loosen mucus and soothe inflamed air passages. But when you add eucalyptus into the mix, you take that relief to a whole new level.
Eucalyptus oil contains a compound called eucalyptol, which has been used for generations as a natural decongestant. When the hot water hits these steamers, the oil is carried up in the steam, allowing you to breathe it in deeply. It provides that instant “cooling” sensation in your nose and throat that makes it so much easier to relax.
Why Make These From Scratch?
Just like my Best Panera Soup Recipe, I prefer to make my shower steamers from scratch using simple ingredients. Many of the store-bought versions are loaded with artificial fragrances and dyes that can actually irritate your lungs more than they help. By making them yourself, you control exactly what goes into them.
What you’ll need:
- 2 cups Baking Soda: This acts as the base and carrier for the oils.
- 1 cup Citric Acid: This is what creates that satisfying “fizz” when the water hits it.
- Essential Oils: I recommend a heavy hand with Eucalyptus, but adding a few drops of Peppermint or Rosemary can provide even more relief.
- Witch Hazel or Water: Used in a spray bottle to bind the ingredients together.
Easy DIY Eucalyptus Shower Steamers (From Scratch)
Materials
- 2 cups Baking Soda
- 1/2 cup to 1 cup Citric Acid This provides the “fizz”
- 2-3 tbsp Water Use a spray bottle for best results
- 30-40 drops Eucalyptus Essential Oil
- Optional: 10 drops of Peppermint or Lavender oil for extra relaxation
- Silicone Mold Muffin tins or small soap molds work great
Instructions
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a glass bowl, whisk together the baking soda and citric acid until there are no clumps.
- Add the Scent: Add your eucalyptus essential oils directly into the dry powder and stir well.
- The “Slow Spriz”: This is the most important part! Using a spray bottle, lightly mist the mixture with water while stirring constantly.
- Tip: If you add the water too fast, the mixture will start fizzing (reacting) before you even get it in the shower!
- Check Consistency: Stop adding water when the mixture feels like wet sand. If you squeeze a handful in your palm, it should hold its shape without crumbling.
- Press into Molds: Pack the mixture firmly into your silicone molds. Press down hard—the tighter you pack them, the longer they will last in the shower.
- Dry: Let them sit overnight (at least 12–24 hours) in a cool, dry place. Once they are hard to the touch, pop them out!
Notes
Place one steamer on the floor of your shower, but away from the direct stream of water. You want it to get splashed just enough to activate the fizz, but not wash down the drain instantly. As it dissolves, the steam will carry the eucalyptus oils upward for a refreshing, spa-like breath of fresh air. This recipe will make 6-12 steamers depending on how large you make them
