Chemistry in the bathtub with fizzing Christmas candy cane bath bombs you can make easily with the kids. Explore a cool chemical reaction between an acid and base while you get clean! We love simple science activities for kids!
FIZZING CANDY CANE CHRISTMAS BATH BOMBS FOR KIDS
HOW TO MAKE CHRISTMAS BATH BOMBS
Kids will have Christmasy clean fun with these scented Christmas candy cane bath bombs. They are just as fun for kids to make as they are fun to use in the bath!
This homemade bath bomb recipe is definitely more kid-friendly then store-bought versions which may contain many artificial ingredients. Try to avoid fake fragrances, artificial colorings, and glitter!
WHY DO BATH BOMBS FIZZ?
The best part of bath bombs is, of course, the fizzing action which is actually a chemical reaction. Chemistry in the bathtub!
Bath bombs fizz when water triggers a reaction between an acid, citric acid, and a base, baking soda. Usually, we see this in one of our volcano experiments, like our LEGO volcano.
This bath bomb is made with citric acid, as found in citrus fruits. have you seen a lemon volcano?
It’s also made with sodium bicarbonate or baking soda, which is a base. The reaction causes the fizziness you can see and hear because the acid and the base combine to create a gas called carbon dioxide.
YOU MAY ALSO LIKE: Fizzing Science Experiments
Fun fact, the cornstarch helps to slow down the chemical reaction!
This reaction also helps break apart the bath bomb to release any hidden treasures and fragrances you have added!
CHRISTMAS BATH BOMBS
BATH BOMB SUPPLIES:
- 1 cup baking soda
- ½ cup citric acid
- ½ cup cornstarch
- 3 tsp. Coconut oil, melted
- 2 tsp. Peppermint extract
- Red food coloring
- Silicone or another type of mold
- Water in a spray bottle
HOW TO MAKE CHRISTMAS BATH BOMBS
STEP 1: Combine baking soda, citric acid, cornstarch, coconut oil until well combined.
STEP 2: Add peppermint extract ½ tsp. at a time, stirring every time you add the liquid. It may fizz a bit, this is normal.
STEP 3: Spritz with water a little at a time, mixing with your hands just until the mixture is slightly damp and moldable. You do not want it dripping wet because it will fizz out and not form properly.
STEP 4: Divide out half of your mixture. Add red food coloring to half until you reach your desired shade of color.
STEP 5: Alternate the red and white in your mold to create a peppermint effect. Be sure to pack it in the mold tightly. To create the peppermint shape I used half of a metal bath bomb mold.
STEP 6: Let your bath bomb dry overnight and carefully remove from mold.
Store your creation in an airtight container away from moisture.
When ready to use, pop into a warm bath and watch the action.
MORE CHRISTMAS FUN
Printable Candy Cane STEAM Project Pack
For a complete pack of instructions, templates, and extras, grab our Candy Cane Project Pack!
