You read that title correctly. This DIY came out of a long brainstorming session that wandered into memories of those tiny capsules that expand into sponge dinosaurs when dropped in water. Inspired by that playful surprise, we set out to make bath bombs that hide an unexpected small toy inside.
We’d been eager to try making bath bombs ever since buying supplies for our confetti earrings and realizing the molds would work perfectly for bombs too. To keep things light and silly, we decided to hide a tiny, muscular figurine inside — and the grow-a-boyfriend bath bomb was born.
The idea is simple and fun: present a regular-looking heart bath bomb as a gag gift, and when it fizzes in the tub a miniature “boyfriend” appears. It’s a playful surprise for Valentine’s Day or any time you want to gift a laugh.
DIY Grow-A-Boyfriend Bath Bombs
Total Time: 30 minutes active (+ 8 hours drying)
Supplies
Makes 2–3 heart-shaped bath bombs (10 cm). Use smaller molds to make more.
- Heart mold(s)
- Small novelty figurines (Grow-A-Boyfriend style)
- 1 cup baking soda
- 1/2 cup Epsom salt
- 1/2 cup citric acid
- Fragrance oil or essential oil (to scent)
- Soap or bath-safe coloring
- Olive oil (or another carrier oil)
Directions
- In a large bowl, whisk together 1 cup baking soda, 1/2 cup Epsom salt, and 1/2 cup citric acid until evenly combined.
- Divide the dry mixture into two bowls if you want two colors, or keep it whole for a single color.
- In separate small bowls, mix 2 teaspoons fragrance or essential oil with 3 teaspoons olive oil. Add soap coloring to each bowl to achieve the shades you want.
- Slowly add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients a little at a time, whisking constantly. When the mixture resembles damp sand and holds together when squeezed, it’s ready. Repeat for the second color if using.
- Scoop and firmly pack the mixture into both halves of the heart mold, pressing down with the back of a spoon.
- Place the small figurine into one mold half, then press the two halves together to form a complete heart-shaped bath bomb.
- Leave the bath bomb in the mold to dry overnight (about 8 hours). Carefully remove it from the mold once set.
Photos by Jeff Mindell
We hope you find this DIY as funny as we do. Bath bombs are easier to make than they look once you find a recipe that holds together. One team member is already planning a bath bomb party — a perfect idea for a crafty get-together.
p.s. Print your favorite memory game or other small printable for a cute paired gift.