Can Kids Enjoy Some Fizzy Fun at Bathtime? Bath Bombs Aren't Always Child-Friendly

Would you believe the first bath bomb was invented in a garden shed in 1989? Since then, Mo Constantine, co-founder of Lush, has created over 500 unique bath bomb designs and sold more than 350 million worldwide.

In case you have no idea what I’m talking about, a bath bomb is a small, hard-packed mixture of ingredients that dissolves when placed in water, creating a heavenly bathtime experience for humans looking to soak away the day’s stresses. The question is: are bath bombs safe for kids?

It depends. Some bath bombs contain small toys or figurines, which could pose a choking hazard for little ones. Another major concern is the ingredients.

Mother & Baby warns that some bath bombs contain synthetic fragrances that can trigger allergies and sensitivities. They advise doing a patch test on a small area of your child's skin first to check for reactions.

Unfortunately, as Cleveland Clinic points out, natural ingredients can be just as problematic. They also highlight an uncomfortable fact: bath bombs can affect the body’s pH balance, potentially resulting in a yeast infection in girls.

Essential oils, another popular bath bomb ingredient, are also cause for concern. Healthline says they should be kept out of infants’ baths to avoid ingestion.

On the upside, Lush makes a baby-friendly bath bomb, which Romper claims is devoid of sodium laureth sulfate (SLES), the reason behind those appealing bubbly suds. And, per EWG’s Skin Deep, the reason for irritated skin, eyes, and lungs.

It’s also worth noting that bathtime doesn’t have to include foam or bubbles. Bathing in good old H2O with some fun toys(make sure they’re eco-friendly) can be just as enjoyable.

No, not all bath bombs are vegan-friendly. Some may contain beeswax, animal fats, or even milk powder. Make sure you look for cruelty-free bath bombs made from plant sources, like the ones mentioned in Live Kindly's roundup.

Fortunately, it's becoming increasingly common nowadays for brands to mention if a product is "vegan" on their packaging, so watch for that when shopping for your self-care supplies.

Ultimately, bath bombs can provide a fun and indulgent bathtime experience. Still, it's important to be aware of the potential risks they may pose for children, such as choking hazards and allergic reactions.

By choosing ones made specifically for kids from reputable brands with transparent ingredient lists and considering factors like cruelty-free and vegan options, parents can ensure that their children enjoy a fizzy and fun bathtime experience without worries.