Kids’ corner: DIY bath bombs

• ½ cup cornflour (Maizena)
• 1 cup baking soda
• ½ cup citric acid
• ½ cup fine sea salt or Epsom salts
• 2 Tablespoons water
• 2 ½ Tablespoons melted coconut oil
• Food colouring
• Round bath bomb moulds
• Mixing bowls and a jug
• A spoon and whisk

SAFETY REMINDER:

• Get an adult to help you.
• Keep ingredients away from mouth and eyes.
• Wash your hands when you’re done.
• Rinse the bathtub and your body thoroughly after using the bath bombs – they don’t replace soap!
• Do not use if you have allergies or sensitive skin.

HOW TO MAKE IT

1. Mix the cornflour, baking soda, citric acid and salt in a bowl. Use a spoon to break up any chunky bits, then whisk everything together.
2. Mix the water and coconut oil in a jug. Then, very slowly, pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix. Be sure to do it slowly to avoid the mixture fizzing.
3. Once your mixture feels like wet sand, it is fully mixed. If it feels too dry, add some more water.
4. Now add in your colouring. You can add one colour or more. If you want to make a few different-colour bath bombs, divide your mixture up into separate bowls. Add a few drops of food colouring to each bowl and mix well. Be careful not to stain your clothing or skin.
5. Fill one half of the bath bomb mould with the mixture. Then fill the other half. They should be filled to the brim. Press the two sides of the bath bomb mould together and set aside for a few minutes.
6. Once set, tap the outside of the mould with your spoon. Carefully remove the bath bomb from the mould. You should end up with a ball.
7. Leave to dry overnight in a safe spot. Once dry, you can store them in sealed plastic bags in a cool, dry place.

Now, enjoy your bath bomb! Drop your bomb in a bath of warm water and watch the fizzling start. For a hidden surprise, place a small toy inside one half of the mould before pressing both sides together and leaving it to dry.