Bath Bombs vs. Plumbing: Tips To Keep Your Drains Clear
Throwing in a bath bomb can make a relaxing soak even more luxurious, filling the water with vibrant colors, soothing scents and skin-softening ingredients. But as delightful as they are, bath bombs might be hiding a secret downside — potential plumbing issues.
If you’ve ever wondered, “Will bath bombs clog drains?” our team at Garvin’s Plumbing and Sewer has got the answer you need. Here’s what you should know before your next fizzy soak.
What Are Bath Bombs?
Bath bombs, invented in 1989 as a gentler alternative to bubble baths, are a mix of wet and dry ingredients that react when they hit water. The fizzing effect is primarily caused by baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) and citric acid, which create carbon dioxide gas when combined.
These two ingredients are harmless to your plumbing. However, other materials in bath bombs may not dissolve as easily and can contribute to clogs over time.
Common bath bomb ingredients include:
- Epsom salt — While Epsom salt generally dissolves in warm water, large quantities or incomplete dissolution can leave residue in your pipes.
- Oils and fats — Added for moisturizing, these can stick to pipe walls and create blockages. This issue is especially likely when combined with hair or other debris.
- Flower petals, glitter and other decorations — These non-dissolvable materials can easily clog drains.
- Cornstarch — Used to slow the fizzing process, it can accumulate in your pipes if not flushed out thoroughly.
How Does Epsom Salt Clog Drains?
Epsom salt is a commonly used ingredient in bath bombs for its soothing and muscle-relaxing properties. While it dissolves well in hot water, there are caveats. For instance, if the water isn’t hot enough, Epsom salt may not fully dissolve, leaving behind grains that can settle in your pipes.
Plus, repeated use of bath bombs containing Epsom salt can lead to buildup over time, especially in tubs with older or narrower plumbing.
Can You Use Bath Bombs In A Jacuzzi Tub?
Using bath bombs in a Jacuzzi tub might seem like a fun way to elevate your spa experience, but it comes with additional risks:
- The oils and residue from bath bombs can coat the jets and internal plumbing, leading to clogs and even damage over time.
- Glitter and other small particles can clog the small holes in the jets, reducing their performance.
- Some bath bomb ingredients can leave a film inside the tub’s plumbing, which is harder to clean than standard drains.
If you do want to use bath bombs in a Jacuzzi tub, consider using a nylon or mesh bag to contain any solid particles. Afterward, thoroughly clean the tub and jets immediately after use to prevent buildup.
How To Enjoy Bath Bombs Without Damaging Your Plumbing
You don’t have to give up bath bombs entirely. Here are some simple steps to protect your bathroom plumbing:
- Use a drain cover to catch flower petals, glitter and other debris before they go down the drain.
- Opt for simple bath bombs. Choose ones without non-dissolvable materials like glitter or large salt crystals.
- Rinse your tub thoroughly. After your bath, flush the drain with hot water to clear away any residue.
- Save bath bombs for special occasions rather than daily use.
- Avoid bath bombs with heavy oils, fats or materials that don’t dissolve easily.
Call The Professionals At Garvin’s If You Have A Clog
If you’ve been using bath bombs and are now dealing with slow drains or clogs, don’t wait to address the issue. Garvin’s Plumbing and Sewer provides expert drain cleaning services to tackle clogs caused by bath bombs or other materials.
Contact us today to schedule an appointment for professional drain cleaning or preventative maintenance. With a little care and attention, you can enjoy your bath bombs and keep your plumbing in top shape!
