How to Prolong the Shelf Life of Bath Bombs

What is a bath bomb

A bath bomb or bath fizzie is a consumer product used during bathing. It was invented and patented in 1989 by Mo Constantine, co-founder of Lush Cosmetics. It 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

How Does Bath Bomb Work

The bath bomb fizz is a chemical reaction between the baking soda and citric acid. This chemical reaction requires water to catalyze it; this 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.

Do Bath Bombs Expire?

Bath bombs have a shelf life of about one year. A bath bomb will last only as long as its composite ingredient with the least shelf life. It is true that a bath bomb has a scent as sweet as an air freshener, but if it does expire, it will start to its scents as well as 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 them out at this point.

Shelf Life of Common Bath Bomb Ingredients:
1. Avocado Oil can last up to one year
2. Apricot Kernel Oil last 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

Signs that a bath bomb has expired

While bath bombs don’t come with a clear expiration date, there are some signs that indicate 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 be an indication that it’s no longer at its best. However, it’s important to note that these changes can also 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. If it feels unusually soft or crumbles easily, it may have lost its effectiveness. 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’s a good indication that 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 be harmful to 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.

Can You Use Expired Bath Bombs?

When expired bath bombs look and smell perfectly fine, deciding to discard 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 it has exceeded its expiration date for just a bit, things could be more flexible. Yet, again, expiration dates exist for a reason, and that is to keep you healthy and safe.

How to Prolong the Shelf Life of Bath Bombs

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

1, Store them in a cool, dry place
Heat and humidity can cause bath bombs to lose their 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
If you want to protect your bath bombs from moisture and other elements, wrap them in plastic wrap before storing them.
6, Avoid extreme temperatures
Extreme temperatures, whether hot or cold, can cause bath bombs to lose their fragrance and fizziness.