DIY Calming Bubble Bath Recipe for a Luxurious Homemade Soak

Looking for a gentle way to help your children unwind before bedtime? A calming bubble bath can do wonders. If you don’t have a commercial product on hand or prefer to avoid harsh ingredients, making your own bubble bath at home is simple and fast.

This natural homemade bubble bath uses a few mild ingredients and two relaxing essential oils. It’s quick to prepare and works well for sensitive skin when used as directed. The aromatherapy of lavender and vetiver can help both kids and adults relax at the end of a busy day.

Erika Bragdon is a Certified Essential Oil Coach from the Essential Oil Institute.

Supplies

Gather a few basic supplies. Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

• Dr. Bronner’s Castile soap
• Organic vegetable glycerin
• Lavender essential oil
• Vetiver essential oil
• 16 oz empty plastic container or an old shampoo bottle to store the bubble bath

The best essential oils for a calming bath

This bubble bath is a family favorite. A warm soak is calming on its own, and adding soothing essential oils enhances the effect. Lavender and vetiver were chosen for their calming and grounding properties.

Lavender essential oil is known for its relaxing scent and skin-friendly qualities. Vetiver has a deep, earthy aroma that can help soothe a racing mind and promote a sense of calm. Used together, these oils create a balanced, calming blend perfect for bedtime.

Vetiver essential oil

Vetiver has a heavy, smoky-earthy scent that may feel intense on its own, but it pairs beautifully with floral oils. It’s prized for grounding and relaxing effects, making it a great addition to a calming bath blend.

Lavender essential oil

Lavender offers a soft floral aroma that promotes calm and can support better sleep. It’s a versatile, gentle oil that blends well with vetiver and many other oils. If you prefer different essential oils, feel free to substitute favorites, and always follow safety guidelines for topical use on children.

How to make bubble bath

To make the bubble bath, pour 1 cup of Castile soap into a pourable measuring cup. A glass measuring cup works well for this.

Add 1/3 cup of vegetable glycerin, which helps hold and stabilize bubbles.

Next, add 10–15 drops each of lavender and vetiver essential oils. Use the lower end of that range for smaller children. Stir the mixture gently to combine.

Pour the finished mixture into a 16-ounce bottle for storage. A funnel can make pouring easier and less messy.

How to use homemade bubble bath for kids

For a child’s bath, add 1–2 tablespoons of the bubble bath to the tub while the water is running. This recipe produces moderate bubbles—enough for play and a pleasant soak without being overwhelming.

Let children play and relax in the scented bath while the calming oils work to ease tension and promote restful sleep. Supervise bath time and caution kids not to get bubbles in their eyes. Because only a small amount is used, irritation is uncommon, but watch for any signs of sensitivity.

How to use homemade bubble bath for adults

Adults can increase the amount of solution for more bubbles and a stronger scent. You can also combine this bubble bath with calming bath salts or spray a towel and bathroom with a homemade essential oil spray for an amplified aromatherapy experience.

Follow your bath with a moisturizing body butter to lock in hydration, and consider a warm cup of chamomile tea afterward to help you drift toward a peaceful night’s sleep.

FAQs

How long does homemade bubble bath last?

Stored in a tightly sealed bottle and kept in a cool, dark place, this bubble bath should last about 2–3 months. Give the bottle a gentle swirl before each use if the ingredients separate slightly.

How do I make my bubble bath extra bubbly?

Homemade bubble bath won’t match commercial formulations for volume, but you can increase bubbles by:

1. Adding more of the bubble bath solution.
2. Pouring the solution directly under the running water stream.
3. Using a hand whisk or a handheld showerhead to agitate the water and create more foam—this can be a fun activity with kids.

Enjoy!

More homemade DIY bath products:

• Calming Bath Salts for Kids
• Homemade Body Butter with Calming Essential Oils
• Natural Homemade Foaming Face Wash
• Homemade Coconut Shaving Cream
• Homemade Peppermint Sugar Scrub

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