These “Lump of Coal” bath bombs make great stocking stuffers! Quick and easy to make, these coal bath bombs are sure to be a HUGE hit this Christmas season!
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Lump of Coal Bath Bombs
It’s time for DIY Christmas gift ideas, and these fun lump of coal bath bombs make EXCELLENT stocking stuffers! They’re the perfect blend of naughty and nice!
Related: You may also like this tutorial using Activated Charcoal Soap
What You’ll Need to Make Coal Bath Bombs:
- Baking Soda
- Citric Acid
- Cream of Tartar
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate (SLSA)
- Black Cosmetic Mica Powder and/or Activated Charcoal Powder*
- Sweet Almond Oil
- Polysorbate 80
- Essential Oil or Fragrance Oil of Choice (we used Gingerbread & Sugar Cookie!)
- Witch Hazel in a Fine Misting Spray Bottle
- 2 1/2″ Round Bath Bomb Molds, optional
* Note: Activated charcoal can sometimes appear “messier” in the bathtub than black cosmetic mica because it doesn’t completely dissolve in water; however, activated charcoal boasts a LOT of detoxifying and skin purifying health benefits, so the extra mess is certainly worth it! As long as you are including Polysorbate 80 in your recipe, your tub should stay clean no matter which option (or combination of the two!) that you choose to use!
Lump of Coal Bath Bombs Printable Recipe
Easy Lump of Coal Bath Bombs
What You’ll Need:
- 3 cups Baking Soda
- 1 1/2 cups Citric Acid
- 2 Tbsp Cream of Tartar
- 2 Tbsp Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate (SLSA)
- 1/2 tsp Black Cosmetic Mica Colorant or Activated Charcoal Powder, or combination of the two adding up to 1/2 tsp
- 2 Tbsp Sweet Almond Oil
- 1 1/2 Tbsp Polysorbate 80,
- Fragrance Oil or Essential Oil
- Witch Hazel, in a fine-mist spray bottle
- 2 1/2" Round Metal Bath Bomb Molds, optional
Instructions:
- In a large mixing bowl, thoroughly combine the baking soda, cream of tartar, SLSA. Stir in mica colorant and/or activated charcoal powder until completely combined.
- In a small container, combine the oil, fragrance/essential oil, and Polysorbate 80.
- Stirring constantly, slowly mix the liquids into the dry ingredients until they are completely combined.
- Add citric acid to the mixture and stir until it is fully incorporated.
- Test to see if the mixture is a moldable consistency – it should feel like slightly damp sand and hold together when squeezed in your hand.If the mixture is not quite wet enough to mold, spritz two to three times with a spray bottle of witch hazel and mix well. Repeat as necessary until the proper consistency is reached.
- Mold the lumps of coal by hand OR fill both halves of the round bath bomb mold with the bath bomb mixture, making sure to overfill both sides of the mold just a bit. Press both halves of the mold firmly together.
- Carefully release the bath bomb from the mold (tap the mold lightly with a wooden spoon if needed) and allow it to dry completely for 24-48 hours depending on the temperature and humidity of your location.
For more detailed step-by-step instructions, photos, and tips and tricks check out How to Make Bath Bombs.
Heidi Kundin has captivated the hearts of millions with her colorful and inspiring approach to crafting, celebrations, and family fun. With over 15 years of experience, Happiness is Homemade has become a must-visit destination for those seeking quick and easy creative ideas and last-minute solutions. Heidi’s warm personality shines through her posts, inviting readers to join her on a creative journey that’s fun, rewarding, and achievable. Heidi is also the author of Homemade Bath Bombs & More and DIY Tie-Dye.