The history of Bath Bombs

The Ultimate Guide to The Schmoo Bath Bombs

Have you ever wondered what makes that little fizzy sphere so magical? Here at The Schmoo, we believe a bath bomb is more than just a product—it’s an experience. We’re a small, passionate team, handcrafting every single item in our purpose-built workspace. From quirky Llamas to spooky pumpkins, each bath bomb is made in small batches and lovingly designed to transport you to a world of pure relaxation.

We’re proud to meet all UK legislation, and every bath bomb undergoes cosmetic chemist approval before it makes its way to our dedicated website, social media pages, or a local craft market.

The History of the Humble Bath Bomb

An early version of the bath bomb—a modern staple of self-care—was formulated in the late 19th century. English perfumer Moyses Jacobs developed effervescent bath tablets containing bicarbonate of soda and citric acid, which are essentially the same core ingredients used today. These early tablets were precursors to the modern bath bomb, and they were intended to replicate the experience of natural mineral springs, which were believed to have therapeutic properties.

Additionally, the principle of adding fragrant and therapeutic elements to bathwater dates back to ancient civilizations. The Romans and Egyptians frequently infused their baths with oils, herbs, flower petals, and fragrances, creating indulgent and therapeutic bathing rituals that laid the cultural and sensory groundwork for modern bath products. These practices emphasized aromatherapy and holistic well-being, concepts that are central to the appeal of contemporary bath bombs.

Thus, while Mo Constantine is rightly credited with creating the first commercially successful, purpose-built bath bomb in 1989, the idea of effervescent or aromatic bath enhancements has deep historical roots, spanning from Victorian-era tablets to ancient bathing rituals. Her innovation lay not in discovering the chemical reaction, but in transforming it into a marketable, sensory-rich product that redefined bathing as an act of self-care, indulgence, and personal ritual.

The bath bomb’s popularity has since exploded, giving rise to trends such as bathscaping (decorating the bathtub and surrounding area for a full sensory experience) and bath art (elaborately layered or sculpted bath bombs that create stunning visual effects in water).

Since then, the bath bomb has exploded in popularity, transforming from a simple fizzy ball into a canvas for art, colour, and captivating scents.

The Schmoo Bath Bombs: Benefits Beyond the Fizz

There’s more to our bath bombs than meets the eye. They don’t just put on a beautiful show; they also offer a range of benefits for your skin and your mind. Our carefully selected ingredients work together to cleanse, soften, and nourish your skin, transforming a simple soak into a truly therapeutic experience.

We use high-quality, gentle ingredients that are beneficial for all skin types. Our bath bombs create a moment of peace and a multi-sensory journey with every use.

Crafting the Perfect Bath Bomb: Our not so Secret Ingredients

What goes into a The Schmoo bath bomb? A lot of love and an incredible blend of premium ingredients. Here’s a closer look at what makes our bath bombs so special:

Bicarbonate of Soda & Citric Acid: The dynamic duo! These two key ingredients work together to create the signature fizzing effect. They also act as natural skin cleansers and softeners, leaving your skin feeling smooth and refreshed.
Cream of Tartar: This clever stabiliser helps your bath bomb fizz at a perfect pace while also making it harder and more durable.
Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate (SLSA): A gentle, plant-derived foaming agent that creates a luxurious and foamy lather.
Apricot Oil: A lightweight, natural oil rich in vitamins A and E. It helps to deeply moisturise and nourish your skin without leaving a heavy, greasy feeling.
Polysorbate 80: This emulsifier ensures the oils and colours mix evenly with the water, preventing a slippery residue and making clean-up incredibly easy.
Mica & Water-Safe Dyes: We use high-quality mica minerals and water-safe dyes to create a beautiful, shimmering show in your tub.
Parfum: Our unique fragrance blend is the final touch, filling your bathroom with a captivating and lasting scent.

A Universe of Shapes and Scents

At The Schmoo, we love to celebrate variety and creativity. Our range of bath bombs is as diverse as your interests! We have a fun, ever-changing collection of themes, including animals, summer, Halloween, Christmas, astro signs, Easter, flowers, and even gaming and seaside shapes.

From adorable Llamas and retro campervans to seasonal pumpkins, you’re sure to find a bath bomb that speaks to your personality. Each one is a small piece of art, designed to delight your senses and make you smile.

Whether you’re shopping for a fun gift or treating yourself to some well-deserved relaxation, our bath bombs are the perfect choice. Explore our unique range today and find your next favourite.