Super Eco

Photo credit: SXC

So Santa was good to you and tucked a fizzy bath bomb in your stocking, eh? And you've had that yummy champagne-bubbled bath and now you want more. But what's in those things, really? How "green" are they? And how can you have an endless supply of them without having to refrain from being naughty all year?

Turns out most of the bath bombs made by Lush Cosmetics, who makes more varieties than anyone in the universe, are fairly "natural"/organic. Some are even vegan. But you have to pick and choose carefully, and they may contain dyes and fragrances. Plus, they're about $6 a pop, and that adds up fast, at least at the rate people are bathing in my house.

So make your own. It looks easy. Are you with me?

The basic recipe involves mixing baking soda, citric acid*, and a few drops of whatever organic essential oil makes you swoon, then spritzing it with a bit of witch hazel** before packing it quickly into molds. Sounds easy, yes?

Then you can get fancier. Mold them into different shapes. Or add some oils for moisturizing power. Make them en masse and give them as midwinter gifts. Add botanicals like flower petals or lavender buds. But above all, have fun. And toss one into a bath with a friend. The rose is optional.

*Citric acid is generally regarded as safe (it's used as a food additive); just don't get it in your eyes, okay?

**Witch hazel is plant-based; it's used medicinally and its seeds can be eaten. Pretty safe stuff.