Making natural bath powders is simple and fun. Almost all the parts can come from your pantry. You pick how it is to be scented. Keeping it natural is better for you and our environment.
Ingredients
The basic ingredients in natural bath powder are cornstarch and baking soda. The added ingredients for scent and herbal qualities are optional. Though the herbs make it special. You can create your own signature scent.
- One cup cornstarch
- One half a cup baking soda
Optional herbs should be in a dried form and as powdered as possible. I run mine through a small coffee grinder that is used just for herbs or a mortar and pestle works great also. The herbs should be of the highest quality you can get. The amount used per batch is up to you and how much scent you want. A basic rule of thumb is to start with one tablespoon per basic batch. After it is mixed you can always add more but remember you cannot take away.
Suggested Herbs
- Lavender, this is the most traditional and my personal favorite, use the flowers removed from the stem and ground. Lavender is used as a calming herb and is said to promote sleep.
- Mint, creates a light and summery scent
- Cilantro, yes the Mexican seasoning, dried and used in small amounts creates an earthy more masculine scent
- Dried Rose Petals, very traditional soft rose, don't expect a lot of scent
- Use your imagination, try your favorite herb, avoid spices like cinnamon and clove until you test for an allergic reaction, the oils often cause skin irritation
Mixing
There are a number of ways to mix your ingredients together. Remember to pick a dry day, humidity will make things sticky. The simplest is to put it all in a large zipper bag and shake well. I use my blender to get a smoother consistency. This method is messier but the texture is worth it. Then just pour into the container of choice.
Packaging
Any moisture proof container can be used. The fun comes from finding the original ones. Small canning jars used for jams, with a wide mouth, are the easiest to come by. You can cover the inner lid with fabric or place a sticky label on top. Small paper mache boxes from the local craft store are inexpensive and can be decorated as you wish. If you are giving it as a gift, including a powder puff is a nice touch. These could be made at home out of short fake fur or purchased very reasonably at a drugstore.
Have Fun
Making this powder is quick and simple. It can be a great small gift or just keep it on hand for personal use on those hot summer days.
