A friend asked me if I knew how to make homemade shower melts since her favorite store-bought ones were discontinued. I’m so glad she asked because now these little melts have become a household essential for us.
I like to refer to them as “shower soothers” because I add menthol or essential oils like eucalyptus and rosemary to help with colds. Just let the hot shower water hit them, and the soothing steam that rises can really help with coughs and congestion.
You don’t need to wait for a cold to enjoy these. Aromatherapy can be very relaxing and stress-reducing, so I sometimes make them just for fun using my favorite essential oil blends.
Before diving into this DIY project, I did some research and discovered there were already some good natural options available for purchase. However, I wanted to create a version that combined the best qualities, so I based my recipe on the bath bombs I make at home.
I had some essential oils and menthol crystals left over from making homemade pain relief lotion bars and vapor rub, so I experimented a bit with the ratios. I found a combination that’s fantastic for clearing out sinuses. I’ve also considered seeing how these work in a bath for sore muscles but haven’t tried that yet.
I used small silicone candy molds to make the melts and stored them in a glass jar, ready for when a cold strikes. The great thing about making these recipes from scratch is that you control what’s in them, and you can customize the scents to your liking. Try lavender, rose, or citrus for anytime aromatherapy—they make great gifts, too!
One caution: Always consult a health practitioner or aromatherapist about using essential oils, especially for children or pregnant women. Menthol and strong oils like peppermint or eucalyptus can be too intense. A kid-safe blend is an excellent option to avoid guessing. Personally, I avoid using them on kids under 2 and dilute the oils for older children.
This article was medically reviewed by Dr. Madiha Saeed, a board-certified family physician. Remember, it’s not personal medical advice, so it’s best to consult your doctor.
Have you ever made shower melts? What natural remedies do you like to keep handy during this season?
