How to Use Shower Steamers (and What They Actually Are)
What a shower steamer is, where to put it so the scent lasts, how it differs from a bath bomb, and how to store and use one safely.
To use a shower steamer, turn on a warm shower, set the steamer on the shower floor or a ledge where the spray splashes it but doesn't hit it directly, and let it fizz while you wash. As it dissolves it releases essential oils into the steam, so the whole shower smells like lavender, eucalyptus or citrus. One steamer usually lasts a single shower. That's the short version; here's how to get the most out of one.
What is a shower steamer?
A shower steamer is a compressed tablet, a lot like a bath bomb, made mostly of baking soda and citric acid with a higher dose of essential oils or fragrance. When water reaches it, the two react and fizz, and the warm steam carries the scent around the shower.
Unlike a bath bomb, it isn't meant to soften or color water you sit in. It's aromatherapy for people who shower rather than bathe: the point is the smell, not anything left on your skin.
Where should you put a shower steamer?
Placement makes the biggest difference to how long the scent lasts.
- Out of the direct stream. Under the full spray, a steamer can dissolve in a minute or two. Off to the side, where it only catches splashes, it fizzes slowly and the scent lasts most of your shower.
- On the floor or a ledge, away from the drain. A corner of the shower floor works, as does a shelf or a small dish on a ledge, where it sits closer to your face.
- Away from where you stand. The fizzing residue can make the floor slippery, so keep it out from under your feet.
Close the shower door or curtain so the steam, and the scent, stays in.
How long does a shower steamer last?
Usually one shower, depending on its size and how much water reaches it. If you take short showers, break a steamer in half and save the rest in a dry container for next time.
Shower steamer vs bath bomb: what's the difference?
| Shower steamer | Bath bomb | |
|---|---|---|
| Where it goes | On the shower floor or a ledge | In a full bath |
| What it's for | Scent in the steam | Scenting and softening the bath water |
| Scent strength | Strong, concentrated essential oils | Milder, spread through the bath |
| Left on skin | Very little | Often oils or butters, sometimes color |
| Best for | Quick morning or evening showers | A long soak |
If someone in your house prefers baths and someone else showers, a mixed box such as our natural bath bombs and shower steamers set covers both.
How to use a shower steamer, step by step
- Run the shower warm first. Steam carries the scent, so let the bathroom warm up for a minute.
- Unwrap the steamer and place it off to the side, where the spray just reaches it.
- Shower as usual. Breathe normally; there's no need to hold it near your face.
- Rinse away what's left and wipe the floor if it feels slick.
Some handmade steamers can also be rubbed gently over damp skin as a light scrub; only do that if the product's directions say so.
Choosing a scent
Most steamers use a handful of classic essential oils:
- Lavender for a calm evening shower. Our lavender shower steamers set has fifteen, enough for a few weeks of showers.
- Eucalyptus and mint for a fresh, clear-headed morning.
- Grapefruit and citrus for something bright and energizing.
- Woody and herbal blends (cedar, pine, lemongrass tea tree) for people who don't like florals. The earthy shower steamer box of 5 is a good first try.
Not sure what someone likes? A mixed set such as the spring unisex shower steamers (lavender, grapefruit, mint, eucalyptus and cedarwood orange) or the twelve-piece Cheer Up set lets them find a favorite.
How to store shower steamers
Humidity is their enemy: moisture in the air starts the fizzing reaction early and dulls the scent. Keep steamers in their box or an airtight container, somewhere dry, not on the shower shelf. Stored that way they keep their scent for months.
Are shower steamers safe?
For most people, yes, used as directed. A few sensible precautions:
- Keep them out of your eyes and don't rub the fizz on your face.
- Essential oils can bother some people. If you're pregnant, have asthma or sensitive airways, or react to strong scents, check with your doctor or pick a milder blend.
- Keep them away from pets, especially cats, which are sensitive to many essential oils, and out of reach of children.
- Stop if anything irritates your skin or breathing.
Do shower steamers make a good gift?
They're one of the easiest self-care gifts: small, useful and loved by people who never have time for a bath. Boxed sets like the heart-shaped steamers or the candle spa box with shower steamers and an eye mask are ready to give. For more ideas, see our spa gift basket guide or browse Bath & Body.
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