Introduction

Peppermint shower steamers are an easy way to transform your shower into a refreshing, spa-like experience. Infused with invigorating essential oils, these fizzy tablets release a cool peppermint aroma that can help clear your sinuses and uplift your mood. Making them at home is simple and fun, perfect for personal use or as thoughtful gifts.

The image shows three white, round, foamy cups on a white plate. Each cup has two small candy cane pieces sticking out on top, which are white with red stripes. Next to the cups is a round peppermint candy with red and white stripes. The plate sits on a white marbled surface, and in the blurry background, there is a small brown bottle and more similar white cups. The lighting is soft and natural. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 1/2 cups baking soda
1/3 cup distilled or regular water (up to 1/2 cup as needed)
10-12 drops peppermint essential oil
Wilton candy cane icing decorations
Optional: a few drops of eucalyptus, lavender, or lemon essential oil for added aromatherapy benefits
Optional: organic food coloring or dried herbs for decoration
Airtight container or mason jar for storage
12-count silicone mini muffin mold

Instructions

Step 1: In a large metal or glass bowl, add the baking soda. Slowly stir in 1/4 cup of water, gradually adding more up to 1/2 cup as needed, until the mixture feels like damp sand. Be careful not to add too much water at once.
Step 2: Add the peppermint essential oil and any optional essential oils like eucalyptus or lavender. Mix well to evenly distribute the scent.
Step 3: Firmly press the mixture into the silicone mini muffin mold, smoothing the tops with your fingers or a spoon. Consider adding dried herbs or a few drops of citrus oil for extra fragrance.
Step 4: Gently press a candy cane icing decoration into the center of each steamer, taking care not to break it.
Step 5: Let the shower steamers dry in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight for 24 hours until they harden completely.
Step 6: Once dry, carefully remove the steamers from the molds and store them in an airtight container or mason jar, keeping them in a dark place until ready to use.

Tips & Variations

For a more textured steamer, try mixing ½ cup Epsom salts with ½ cup baking soda, 2 tablespoons water, and 20 drops peppermint oil.
Use organic food coloring to tint your steamers or sprinkle dried herbs on top for a decorative and aromatic twist.
If you want a stronger scent, gently increase the number of essential oil drops but avoid over-saturating the mixture.

Storage

Store your peppermint shower steamers in an airtight container or mason jar to keep them dry and aromatic. Keep them in a cool, dark place away from moisture. They will last for several months when stored properly. To use, place one steamer on the shower floor away from direct water spray but close enough to the steam to activate its fizzing and scent release.

How to Serve

The image shows six round white sweets that look like snowballs, each with a small red and white candy cane decoration on top. Three of the sweets are placed on a red plate with a light floral pattern around the edges, while the other three are in the background on a white marbled surface. There is also a small glass bottle with brown liquid and a white cap near the sweets in the background. A round red and white peppermint candy lies next to the sweets on the plate. The sweets have a soft, powdery texture and are uniform in shape and size. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other essential oils besides peppermint?

Yes, you can add oils like eucalyptus for congestion relief, lavender for relaxation, or lemon for a fresh citrus scent. Just adjust the drops according to your preference.

How do I use shower steamers safely?

Place the steamer on the shower floor where it won’t be directly hit by water to prevent it from dissolving too quickly. Avoid direct skin contact as the essential oils may cause irritation for sensitive skin.