How to Prolong the Shelf Life of Bath Bombs

 Feb 23,2023

A bath bomb or bath fizzy is a consumer product used during bathing. It was invented and patented in 1989 by Mo Constantine, co-founder of Lush Cosmetics. A bath bomb is a compacted mixture of wet and dry ingredients molded into any of several shapes and then dried. Bath water effervesces at the surface of a bath bomb immersed within it, with attendant dispersion of such ingredients as essential oil, moisturizer, scent, or colorant.

Ingredients:

Baking soda
Citric acid
Epsom salts
Fragrance oils
Colorants
Surfactants

The bath bomb's fizz is a chemical reaction between baking soda and citric acid. This chemical reaction requires water to catalyze it, which is why bath bombs do not bubble and fizz as soon as you mix the ingredients together. It’s also why storing bath bombs in a dry place is vital.

Bath bombs have a shelf life of about one year. A bath bomb will last only as long as its composite ingredient has the least shelf life. A bath bomb indeed has a scent as sweet as an air freshener, but if it expires, it will start to change its scent and its good looks and effect.

If your bath bomb starts to smell bad, break up, or grow mold, it is a sign that it has expired, and you should learn to throw it out at this point.

Shelf Life of Common Bath Bomb Ingredients:
1. Avocado Oil can last up to one year
2. Apricot Kernel Oil lasts from six months up to one year
3. Canola Oil lasts 1 to 2 years
4. Castor Oil lasts up to a year
5. Coconut Oil lasts more than a year
6. Coffee butter-1 year
7. Olive oil lasts up to 2 years

While bath bombs don’t have a clear expiration date, there are some signs that they may have passed their prime. One of the most noticeable signs is a change in color or scent. If a bath bomb has lost its vibrant color or its scent has significantly faded, it may indicate it’s no longer at its best. However, it’s important to note that these changes can occur naturally over time, even if the bath bomb is still usable.
Another sign to watch out for is the texture of the bath bomb. It may have lost its effectiveness if it feels unusually soft or crumbles easily. Bath bombs should have a firm texture that holds its shape until it comes into contact with water. If it falls apart easily or feels mushy, it has expired.
Lastly, if you notice any mold or discoloration on the bath bomb, it’s best to discard it immediately. Mold growth can harm your skin, and using a moldy bath bomb can lead to skin irritation or infections. Always prioritize your safety and avoid using bath bombs that show signs of mold or discoloration.

When expired bath bombs look and smell perfectly fine, discarding them can be difficult. The question undoubtedly crosses your mind: Can you use expired bath bombs?
The answer is that you should avoid using expired products on your skin under any circumstances. I cannot stress enough how seemingly good products can harbor health hazards.
Unwrapped bath bombs interact with air and moisture, causing the ingredients to undergo breakdown. When the formula is not intact, it is easier for bacteria to grow inside your bath bomb.
The dirt and bacteria accumulated in expired bath bombs can cause serious problems to your delicate skin, including irritation and infections. Ultimately, having a mediocrely satisfying fizzy bath is not worth it!
If your bath bomb is unopened and has exceeded its expiration date for just a bit, things could be more flexible. Yet, again, expiration dates exist for a reason: to keep you healthy and safe.

If you want to keep your bath bombs fresh for longer, here are some tips to help you prolong their shelf life.

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1. Store them in a cool, dry place
Heat and humidity can cause bath bombs to lose shape, fizziness, and fragrance.
2. Use airtight containers
An airtight container will help protect your bath bombs from moisture, air, and other elements that can cause them to deteriorate quickly.
3. Avoid exposure to water
Water is the enemy of bath bombs. Even a small amount of water can cause them to fizz prematurely or dissolve completely.
4. Don't store them for too long
Bath bombs are meant to be used, not stored indefinitely.
5. Wrap them in plastic wrap
To protect your bath bombs from moisture and other elements, wrap them in plastic before storing them.
6. Avoid extreme temperatures
Extreme hot or cold temperatures can cause bath bombs to lose their fragrance and fizziness.