Learn how to make DIY shower steamers with Essential oils and eucalyptus and peppermint essential oils for cold and flu relief at home in the U.S. with our Simple recipe, local tips, and usage guide included.
When cold and flu season hits in the U.S., many families look for natural ways to ease symptoms right at home. One of the most popular and affordable remedies is making your own DIY shower steamers with essential oils. These small, fizzy tablets release soothing vapors while you shower, helping to clear congestion, refresh your senses, and make breathing easier.
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What Are DIY Shower Steamers?
Shower steamers are like bath bombs but for the shower. Instead of dissolving in a tub, they fizz on the shower floor and release essential oils into the steam. In states like New York, Ohio, and Illinois, where winters are especially tough, people love them because they provide quick relief without needing a full soak in the bathtub.
Why Make DIY Shower Steamers at Home in the U.S.?
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Affordable: Buying premade steamers can cost $2–$5 each, but homemade versions cost cents per piece.
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Customizable: You choose which oils to use — for colds, peppermint, eucalyptus, and menthol are U.S. favorites.
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Readily available ingredients: You can find baking soda, citric acid, and essential oils at Walmart, Target, or even Amazon U.S.
Ingredients You’ll Need for DIY Shower Steamers at Home
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1 cup baking soda (Arm & Hammer, available nationwide)
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½ cup citric acid (often found in the canning aisle at Kroger or Safeway)
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2–3 tablespoons water
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15 drops eucalyptus essential oil
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10 drops peppermint oil
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Optional: 5 drops lavender oil for relaxation
Step by Step Guide on DIY Shower Steamers at Home
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Mix dry ingredients: In a bowl, combine baking soda and citric acid.
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Add water slowly: Use a spray bottle to avoid fizzing too soon.
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Add essential oils: Stir in eucalyptus and peppermint.
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Mold them: Press mixture into silicone molds (snowflake or round molds work well, often sold at Michaels or Hobby Lobby).
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Dry overnight: Leave them on the counter for at least 12 hours.
Tip: Store them in a mason jar so they stay fresh, especially in humid U.S. states like Florida.
How to Use Them
Place one steamer on the shower floor, away from direct water flow but where splashes hit it. As it dissolves, steam carries the oils up. Perfect for clearing congestion before work or school.
Local Examples of DIY Shower Steamers at Home
in the U.S.
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In Minnesota, many families make large batches in winter and gift them during the holidays.
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In California, people often use citrus essential oils like lemon and sweet orange for a refreshing summer version.
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In Texas, DIY bloggers recommend adding menthol crystals (sold online) for stronger sinus relief.
Making DIY shower steamers with essential oils for cold and flu relief is not only budget-friendly but also a smart way to stay healthy during tough seasons. With ingredients available at nearly every U.S. grocery or craft store, anyone can whip up a batch at home.
So the next time you feel congestion coming on, skip the pharmacy line and try this homemade remedy instead.
Danz has extensive experience as a senior editor at renowned publications like Money, Consumer Reports, Success, and Reader’s Digest. As a writer, his work has appeared in prestigious outlets such as The New York Times, Parade, Smithsonian, National Geographic Traveler, Investopedia, PBS NextAvenue, and Wirecutter. With over seven years of expertise, Danz specializes in personal finance, Sports, Trends and consumer topics, contributing to both major print and online platforms.