These DIY lavender bath salts are made with simple, natural ingredients to create a relaxing, spa-like experience right in your own bathtub. Combining mineral-rich Epsom salts, sea salt, and dried lavender flowers, this easy lavender bath salts recipe is one of my favorite ways to unwind after a long day.

Whether you’re looking to soothe tired muscles, enjoy the calming scent of lavender, or make beautiful homemade gifts, these lavender bath salts are incredibly easy to make. They also make thoughtful gifts for Mother’s Day, birthdays, or any occasion!

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diy lavender bath salts in a small glass jar topped with a cork surrounded by lavender petals

Why You’ll Love These Homemade Lavender Bath Salts

Simple, natural ingredients: Made with Epsom salt, mineral salt, dried lavender buds, and optional baking soda and essential oils.
Relaxing and soothing: The combination of warm water, mineral salts, and lavender creates a peaceful, spa-like experience.
Easy DIY: This lavender bath salt recipe takes just five minutes to prepare.
Customizable: Adjust the lavender essential oil or leave out the baking soda for sensitive skin.
Great gifts: Package these pretty bath salts in a mason jar with a ribbon for a thoughtful homemade gift.

DIY Lavender Bath Salts Ingredient Benefits

There’s something incredibly restorative about soaking in a warm bath at the end of the day. These homemade lavender bath salts combine the relaxing properties of lavender with the comfort of a mineral-rich soak.

Epsom Salt: Also known as magnesium sulfate, Epsom salt is a popular ingredient in homemade bath salts. Epsom salt baths are traditionally used to help soothe tired, achy muscles after exercise or a long day. While research on magnesium absorption through the skin is limited, soaking in warm water can help promote relaxation and relieve muscle tension.

Mineral Salt: Pink Himalayan salt and Dead Sea salt contain naturally occurring minerals. These sea salts create a mineral-rich bathing experience.

Lavender: Lavender flowers are known for their beautiful fragrance and calming scent. Research suggests that lavender aromatherapy may help promote relaxation, reduce feelings of stress, and support better sleep.

Baking Soda (Optional): Baking soda can soften bath water and is sometimes used to soothe certain types of skin irritation. However, because it’s alkaline, it may disrupt the skin’s natural pH and cause irritation for some people, especially those with sensitive skin. Feel free to leave it out if you have sensitive skin

diy lavender bath salts spilled out on a small glass jar on a marble cutting board

Ingredients for DIY Lavender Bath Salts

You only need a handful of simple ingredients to make your own lavender bath salts.

2 cups pure Epsom salt: Choose a good-quality, unscented Epsom salt without added fragrances
¾ cup coarse mineral salt: Pink Himalayan salt or Dead Sea salt both work beautifully.
½ cup baking soda (optional): Leave out if you have sensitive skin
2–3 tablespoons dried lavender buds (optional): Use 100% dried organic lavender flowers
10–15 drops lavender essential oil

How to Make Lavender Bath Salts

This homemade DIY lavender bath salts recipe comes together in just a few minutes!

Step 1: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a large, completely dry bowl, combine 2 cups Epsom salt, ¾ cup mineral salt, and the optional ½ cup baking soda. I like to pour the baking soda through a mesh seive to break up any clumps. Then whisk thoroughly, until evenly mixed.

a woman pouring baking soda into a glass bowl filled with salt

Step 2: Add the Lavender Essential Oil (Optional)

Next add your lavender essential oils. Then give the salts another good mix to disperse the oils.

a woman dropping essential oils into a glass bowl filld with salt

Step 3: Fold in the Lavender Buds

Gently fold in 2 tablespoons of dried lavender buds. Stir until evenly distributed without crushing the delicate lavender flowers.

a woman dropping dried lavender petals into a glass bowl filled with salt

Step 4: Transfer to a Glass Jar

Pour the mixture into a clean, dry mason jar or another airtight glass container. Seal tightly and store in a cool, dry, dark place away from direct sunlight.

a glass jar filled with diy lavender bath salts

DIY Lavender Bath Salt: How to Use

For the ultimate relaxing bath, follow these simple steps:

Fill your bathtub with comfortably warm water.
Add ½ cup of lavender bath salts under the running bath water, stirring to help the salts dissolve.
Soak for 15–20 minutes while enjoying the calming lavender aroma.
Rinse your skin with fresh water afterward if desired.

I love pairing a relaxing bath with a warm cup of herbal tea and a good book. It’s such a simple way to slow down and unwind after a busy day.

Tip: To avoid dried lavender buds sticking to your bathtub or going down the drain, place the bath salts in a reusable cotton or muslin bag before adding them to the water.

diy lavender bath salts spilled out of a small glass jar on a marble cutting board

Expert Tips for the Best Homemade Bath Salts

Use completely dried lavender: Fresh lavender contains moisture that can cause homemade bath salts to clump or spoil.
Choose pure ingredients: Avoid Epsom salts and sea salts containing artificial fragrances, dyes, or unnecessary additives.
Adjust for sensitive skin: Skip the baking soda and essential oil if your skin is easily irritated.
Keep moisture out: Always use a dry spoon when scooping bath salts from the jar.
Make them gift-worthy: Store your beautiful lavender bath salts in small glass jars and add a handwritten label.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do homemade lavender bath salts last?

When stored in an airtight container away from moisture and direct sunlight, these lavender bath salts can generally last 6–12 months. For the best fragrance, I recommend using them within six months. Discard if they develop an unusual odor, discoloration, or signs of moisture damage.

Can I use fresh lavender instead of dried lavender buds?

I recommend using dried lavender buds rather than fresh lavender flowers. Fresh lavender contains moisture that can shorten the shelf life of homemade bath salts.

Can I make lavender bath salts without essential oils?

Absolutely! The dried lavender buds provide a naturally delicate fragrance on their own. Essential oils are completely optional.

Can I use regular sea salt or kosher salt?

Yes, plain, additive-free sea salt can be used in place of coarse mineral salt. However, I prefer pink Himalayan salt or Dead Sea salt for their mineral content. If using kosher salt, make sure it doesn’t contain added anti-caking agents or other unnecessary ingredients.

Are lavender bath salts safe for sensitive skin?

Many people tolerate plain Epsom salt baths well, but sensitive skin can react to baking soda, essential oils, or even botanicals. I recommend leaving out the baking soda and lavender essential oil if you have sensitive skin. Avoid using bath salts on broken or severely irritated skin.

Final Thoughts

Making your own DIY lavender bath salts is such a simple and affordable way to bring a little relaxation into your daily routine. With just a few natural ingredients, you can create a beautiful, mineral-rich bath soak without the artificial fragrances and unnecessary additives often found in conventional bath products.

These homemade lavender bath salts are also one of my favorite DIY gifts. Package them in a pretty glass jar, tie on a ribbon, and you’ve got a thoughtful, handmade gift that anyone who loves a relaxing bath will appreciate!