What is a Shower Steamer? The Aromatherapy Secret You’re Missing

If you’ve ever wished your daily shower could feel more like a spa experience, meet your new favorite self-care essential: the shower steamer. These small but powerful tablets are designed to transform an ordinary shower into a luxurious, scent-filled escape—no bathtub required.

In this blog, we’ll break down exactly what a shower steamer is, how it works, what it’s made of, and why it’s the perfect alternative to bath bombs for non-bath lovers. Whether you’re new to aromatherapy or just looking to level up your routine, this is your complete guide.

What is a Shower Steamer?

A shower steamer, also known as a shower bomb, is a tablet made with similar ingredients to bath bombs—like baking soda and citric acid—but designed specifically for use in the shower. When activated by water and steam, it releases aromatic essential oils that fill the air, creating a spa-like experience right in your bathroom.

Unlike bath bombs, which dissolve in bathwater, shower steamers stay on the shower floor, gradually fizzing as water hits them and releasing fragrance into the steam.

What Are Shower Steamers Made Of?

The core ingredients of most shower steamers include:

• Baking Soda (Sodium Bicarbonate) – For fizz and activation

• Citric Acid – Combines with baking soda to create the fizzing effect

• Menthol Crystals – Intensify the release of essential oils and clear sinuses

• Essential Oils or Fragrance Oils – For aromatherapy and scent experience

• Cornstarch or Kaolin Clay – Helps with texture and hardening

• Binder – Usually water, alcohol, or witch hazel to hold the tablet together

At The Lavish Goat, we use powerful menthol blends with premium essential oils for maximum impact. Our shower steamers are built for those who want real results—not just a whiff of fragrance.

How to Use a Shower Steamer

Using a shower steamer is easy—no instructions required, but here’s how to get the most out of it:

🧼 Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Start your shower and let the water heat up to produce steam.

2. Place the shower steamer on the floor of the shower, away from the direct stream of water but where it will get splashed.

3. As it fizzes, inhale deeply and enjoy the aromatherapy.

4. One tablet typically lasts 5–10 minutes depending on placement and water pressure.

🚫 Don’t use shower steamers in the bath—they contain menthol and higher fragrance concentrations that may be too intense for skin contact.

Why Use a Shower Steamer?

There are tons of reasons to incorporate shower steamers into your daily self-care routine—especially if you don’t have time for baths.

🌿 Aromatherapy Benefits:

• Eucalyptus & Peppermint – Clears sinuses and boosts focus

• Lavender – Helps promote relaxation and sleep

• Citrus oils – Energize and uplift your mood

• Menthol – Provides a cooling, refreshing feeling and opens airways

💨 Great for Non-Bath People:

• Don’t have a tub? Shower steamers give you a similar sensory experience.

• Short on time? You can use one in a 10-minute shower and feel recharged.

🛀 Bath Bomb Alternative:

If you love the idea of bath bombs but prefer showers, this is your answer.

Are Shower Steamers Safe?

Yes—shower steamers are safe when used as directed. However, because they are highly concentrated with oils and menthol, they are meant for external aromatic use only. That means:

• Don’t apply them to skin

• Don’t use them as a bath bomb

• Keep away from children and pets

At The Lavish Goat, our formulas are phthalate-free, cruelty-free, and handmade in small batches to ensure high quality and safety.

How to Store Shower Steamers

Because shower steamers react to moisture, you’ll want to keep them dry and airtight until use.

Storage Tips:

• Keep them in their original shrink wrap or sealed pouch

• Store in a cool, dry cabinet or drawer

• Avoid bathrooms with poor ventilation (steam can activate them early!)

Proper storage ensures they maintain their scent and fizz power.

Do Shower Steamers Really Work?

Absolutely—but quality matters. Not all shower steamers are created equal. Many cheap versions barely release fragrance or dissolve too quickly to enjoy. That’s why The Lavish Goat’s shower steamers are infused with a strong dose of menthol and essential oils to actually fill your shower with scent and steam-activated goodness.

Best Shower Steamer Scents to Try

Here are some of our best-selling shower steamer blends to try based on your mood or need:

Where to Buy Shower Steamers

You can find shower steamers online, at local markets, and in some retail stores—but beware of weak formulas that under-deliver.

👉 At The Lavish Goat, we handcraft premium shower steamers that are:

• Loaded with menthol for extra potency

• Long-lasting and slow-fizzing

• Beautifully packaged and gift-ready

• Proudly made in Texas by a women-owned team 💪

Ready to turn your shower into a sanctuary?
Shop Shower Steamers Now

Final Thoughts: What is a Shower Steamer?

To sum it up: a shower steamer is a bath bomb’s steamy cousin. It’s a fast, effective way to infuse your shower with mood-boosting, sinus-clearing aromatherapy. Whether you need to wake up, wind down, or feel like a spa queen without the tub—shower steamers are the game-changer you didn’t know you needed.