DIY Shrek Bath Bomb (Lush Dupe) – How to Make Your Own Swampy Citrus Fizzy

f you’ve seen the Shrek Bath Bomb from Lush, you know just how fun, funky, and fabulously swampy it is. But if you missed it during its limited release—or simply want to make your own ogre-approved fizzy at home—this Lush-inspired Shrek Bath Bomb dupe recipe is just what you need.
With its earthy green color, bold citrus notes, and that perfect little “muddy” edge, this bath bomb is pure fairytale fun with a cheeky twist. Whether you’re making it for yourself, gifting it to a Lush-loving friend, or adding some ogre magic to bath time, this DIY recipe captures the spirit (and scent) of the original Lush Shrek Bath Bomb

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What you need

1 cup baking soda

½ cup citric acid

½ cup corn starch

¼ cup Epsom salt

2 tbsp sweet almond oil (or coconut oil)

1 tsp water (or witch hazel in a spray bottle)

A few drops green food coloring or mica powder

Essential Oil Blend (Shrek Scent Dupe):

4 drops green mandarin essential oil

2 drops oakmoss (or substitute vetiver)

1 drop benzoin resinoid

1 drop galbanum oil (optional, but adds swampy vibes)

Other optional add ins.

Bio-glitter (for sparkle) , A toy Shrek or mini dragon inside for surprise fun
Activated charcoal for a little “mud” swirl

Instructions

Whether you’re a seasoned bath bomb maker or trying your first fizzy adventure, these steps will guide you through creating your very own Shrek Bath Bomb dupe, inspired by the iconic limited-edition release from Lush. Let’s get ogre-crafting!

Step 1: Prepare Your Workspace

Before you start, cover your workspace with baking paper or an old towel—bath bomb making can get a little messy, especially when green mica gets involved. I like to wear gloves to protect my hands from getting stained (unless you want to look like Fiona after a mud bath). Keep your bath bomb molds, mixing bowls, and ingredients within reach so you’re not scrambling mid-fizz.

Step 2: Mix All the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine:

• 1 cup baking soda

• ½ cup citric acid

• ½ cup cornstarch

• ¼ cup Epsom salt

Whisk everything together until the texture is soft, airy, and free of lumps. These dry ingredients are the foundation of your bath bomb—they’re what create that satisfying fizz when it hits the water. Make sure the blend is even and well-mixed to avoid uneven fizzing or crumbling later.

Step 3: Blend the Wet Ingredients Separately

In a smaller cup or bowl, add:

• 2 tablespoons sweet almond oil (or melted coconut oil)

• 1 teaspoon water or witch hazel (use witch hazel if you live in a humid climate—it dries faster)

• A few drops of green food coloring or mica powder

• Your Shrek Bath Bomb essential oil blend:
  • 4 drops green mandarin oil

  • 2 drops oakmoss or vetiver

  • 1 drop benzoin resinoid

  • 1 drop galbanum oil (optional for extra swampiness)

Mix this well. You want your oils and color evenly dispersed before they hit the dry ingredients. The scent will start wafting up at this point—earthy, citrusy, and absolutely swamp-approved!

Step 4: Combine the Wet and Dry Mixtures Slowly

This is where things can go sideways if you’re not careful. Slowly drizzle the wet mix into the dry bowl a little at a time, whisking constantly. If you dump it all in at once, the citric acid may react too soon and start fizzing. And nobody wants a premature fizz!

Your final texture should resemble damp sand at the beach—moldable but not dripping. Squeeze a handful in your palm—if it holds its shape and doesn’t crumble or feel soggy, you’ve nailed it.

Troubleshooting tip: If the mix feels too dry and crumbly, spritz a bit more witch hazel. If it’s too wet and fizzing in the bowl, add a pinch more baking soda and cornstarch.

Step 5: Pack and Mold Like an Ogre

Spoon the mixture into both halves of your bath bomb mold, pressing it down firmly as you go. I like to overfill each side slightly, then press the two halves together tightly. Give it a little twist and squeeze like you’re making a snowball. Hold it for about 30 seconds to help it take shape.

Then, gently remove one side of the mold to check your handiwork. If it holds, leave the other half on for a few minutes to set. Carefully release the other side and place your Shrek bomb on a soft towel or parchment paper to dry.

Optional: Add a plastic toy Shrek or a green surprise center (like a mini soap or fizzy) before sealing the mold for a fun reveal!

Step 6: Let Your Shrek Bath Bombs Dry Completely

Allow your bath bombs to air dry for at least 24 hours. They should feel rock-hard when ready. I recommend keeping them out of humid areas—bathrooms with showers can soften your bombs before they set. If you live somewhere damp, pop them in a box with some rice or silica packs to draw out moisture.

Step 7: Time for a Swampy Soak!

Once fully dry, your bath bombs are ready to use. Drop one into a warm bath and watch the fizzing begin! The water will turn a gloriously green, swampy color—just like Shrek’s home—and release that wild forest citrus scent into the air.

You can store your DIY Shrek Bath Bombs in an airtight container or wrap them in tissue for gifting. They keep for about 3–6 months, but let’s be honest—you’re going to use them long before that.