Free patterns from Bird Brain Designs

When we bought our house years ago, it was a display home—polished to perfection with five sparkling bathrooms and not a single bathtub in sight. I know, right? Five bathrooms, zero tubs. Not even a kiddie-sized one. It was beautiful, sure, but not exactly designed for long soaks and bubble baths.

At first, I thought I’d miss those slow, lavender-scented bath nights. But as a mum of two teenagers and a house full of fast-paced mornings, I’ve actually come to love our no-tub lifestyle. And I’ve found a way to get all the bath salt goodness—without ever needing to run a bath.

We’ve been using bath salts in the shower for years now. From sore muscles to head-clearing aromatherapy, it’s become part of my little self-care routine that fits into even the busiest of days (yes, even the “we’re-out-of-milk-and-someone-left-a-wet-towel-on-the-dog” kind of days).

So whether you’re in a rental with a standing shower or just want an easy way to pamper yourself without soaking, this is for you.

Why Use Bath Salts in the Shower?

Bath salts aren’t just for luxurious tubs and candles. They’re full of minerals (like magnesium from Epsom salt) that help:

• Relax tense muscles

• Soothe dry, itchy, or irritated skin

• Exfoliate and detoxify

• Ease congestion (especially with eucalyptus or peppermint)

• Boost your mood through scent and steam

And you can still enjoy all of those perks—with nothing but a shower, a spoonful of salts, and a few minutes to yourself.

5 Easy Ways to Use Bath Salts in the Shower

1. Body Scrub Method
   Mix your salts with a bit of oil (olive or sweet almond works) and gently rub onto damp skin in small circles. It buffs away dry patches and leaves your skin baby-soft. I usually do this on my arms and legs while the water heats up.
2. Steam Sachet Method
   Scoop a few tablespoons of bath salts into a small cotton or muslin bag and hang it from the showerhead. As the hot water runs, the steam releases the essential oils—hello instant spa moment.
3. Shower Floor Sprinkle
   Sprinkle a small amount of salts directly onto the shower floor—away from the main water stream—and let the heat from the shower activate the scent. It’s subtle but so effective.
4. Shower Salt Bombs
   Mix your bath salts with a little coconut oil and press into silicone molds. Let them harden and pop one into the corner of the shower for a fizzy burst of eucalyptus or lavender.
5. Washcloth Massage
   Pour salts onto a damp washcloth and gently rub it over your body. I love this one in the winter when I’m feeling dry and cranky—it’s simple but feels luxurious.

What Type of Bath Salts Work Best in the Shower?

Over the years, I’ve found that some salts work better than others for different methods:

• Epsom Salt – Great for muscle relief and general everyday use.

• Himalayan Salt – Gorgeous pink color and rich in minerals.

• Dead Sea Salt – Ideal if you have skin issues like eczema or keratosis pilaris.

• Fine Sea Salt – Melts quicker and works better for sachets or sprinkle methods.

If you’re scrubbing, go for a coarser grind. For steaming or scent, use fine salt so it dissolves easily.

My Go-To DIY Eucalyptus & Mint Shower Salt Recipe

This is the exact recipe I’ve kept in a jar next to our ensuite shower for years. It clears my sinuses, wakes me up, and makes me feel like I’ve actually done something nice for myself before 9am.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup Epsom salts

• ½ cup fine Himalayan pink salt

• 1 tbsp baking soda

• 1 tbsp carrier oil (jojoba, sweet almond, or grapeseed)

• 15 drops eucalyptus essential oil

• 10 drops peppermint oil

• 5 drops lemon essential oil (optional but so fresh)

To make:

1. In a mixing bowl, combine salts and baking soda.

2. In a small dish, mix your oils together.

3. Slowly pour the oil blend into your salts, stirring to distribute evenly.

4. Store in a glass jar with a tight lid.

5. To use: Scoop 1–2 tablespoons into a washcloth or sachet, or sprinkle onto your shower floor.

This mix is also lovely poured into small jars with a tag—great for last-minute handmade gifts.

Tips from a No-Tub Household

• Avoid using too much oil—it’ll make your shower floor slippery.

• Keep your salt mix in a dry, cool spot to avoid clumping.

• Use citrus oils only in the morning unless you’re a night owl—they’re energizing!

• If gifting, print a sweet little label and tie it with twine. Done.

So yep, no bathtub over here. Not in the master, not in the guest bathroom, not even in the laundry room. And honestly? I don’t miss it. Using bath salts in the shower has become a part of my week that I genuinely look forward to—especially in our busy, multi-bathroom house that somehow still runs out of hot water too fast.

If you’re stuck without a tub, don’t worry—you’re not missing out. With a few tweaks, some simple ingredients, and a little steam, your shower can feel just as relaxing as a long soak.

Go make yourself a jar, and let me know if it becomes your new thing too.