A Two-Step Coconut Bath Soak for Sinking Into After a Long Day

A couple of years ago I got the most wonderful bath soak as a gift. The main ingredient was coconut milk powder, and I loved how it made my bath feel silky and luxurious, soothed dryness, and had a gentle, subtle coconut scent. I made that gift last as long as I could—but all good things come to an end.

When I ran out, I couldn’t justify the price of another jar. But I felt confident that this wonderful concoction could be recreated for less, with only minimal effort and the added benefit of customizing the scent myself. What I came up with is (if I may say so) just as delightful as the original, and it couldn’t be easier to make—all it takes is a few minutes of measuring and stirring.

Needless to say, it’s also a lovely gift; especially nice as a get-well-soon gesture, in a care package, or as a baby shower gift as a treat for the mom-to-be.

Coconut milk powder is often sold as a vegan alternative to coffee creamer, and you’ll get the best price by buying it in bulk (you’ll go through it faster than you think). Cornstarch and baking soda are extremely cost-effective additions that balance out the soak with their own softening and soothing properties. Essential oil is an optional addition—one of the best things about this soak is that it has a pleasant, subtle coconut smell all on its own. (If you do choose to add fragrance, warm scents like sandalwood and floral ones like rose and lavender pair wonderfully with it.)

The best part, in my opinion? Because it’s so affordable, and you can make more whenever you want it, there’s no need to ration this stuff. Use enough to turn the water almost opaque—a full cup or even more.

What you'll need:

• 1 cup coconut milk powder
• 1/2 cup baking soda
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 15-20 drops essential oil, if using
• Bowl, for mixing
• Whisk or fork, for mixing
• Airtight container(s), to store the finished soak

How to make it:

1. If you’re using essential oil, start by measuring the baking soda into the mixing bowl. Add the essential oil and stir well. The baking soda makes a good carrier for the oil; mixing it first ensures the fragrance will be evenly distributed throughout the final product without any clumping.

2. Add the coconut milk powder and cornstarch and stir well—I told you this was easy!

3. Store the finished soak in an airtight container. I keep mine in a pretty jar, but a large Ziploc bag works just as well. If you make a large batch either for yourself or as gifts, it can be nice to measure out “servings” of about 1 cup into individual bags or containers.

We originally ran this post last year, but brought it back because nothing's better after a cold commute than a long, restorative bath.

What bath and beauty products do you make at home? Tell us about them in the comments!