How to make scented bath bundles

These homemade bundles use oats, dried flowers and essential oils to create a soothing, sensory bath time experience.

A string-wrapped bath bundle. In the background is a jar with a label that says Chamomile

Or create a home foot spa, and place them in a flat bottomed bowl for a luxurious foot soak! Be mindful of allergies – the oats can be omitted if needed. 

This guide is part of our Sense Arts, Sport & Wellbeing programme. This activity can be done at a time that suits you, either in your own space or in an educational setting.

Who is this for?

This is a wellbeing activity for people who are deafblind or have complex disabilities and can be enjoyed by anyone.

Why does this make a difference?

This is a sensory activity that promotes wellbeing and relaxation, helping people use their senses to connect with their surroundings by exploring touch and smell.

How to do this activity

What you’ll need 

A combination of the following:

  • A handful of oats
  • Dried flowers (such as lavender, rose or camomile)
  • Dried rosemary (or other calming herbs), or a few drops of essential oils like rosemary or lavender – whatever you have easy access 
  • String
  • Scissors
  • A square of fabric roughly 15x15cm
Adding a spoon full of oats to the centre of a square piece of linen

Step 1

Lay your square of fabric on the surface and carefully pour the oats in the centre of the fabric (if using).

Step 2

Now add any dried herbs, flowers or essential oils you plan to use to the pile of oats.
Wrapping a piece of string around a little linen package of scented salts

Step 3

Cut a length of string about 15cm, pick up the corners of the bundle and tie the string around it to hold the contents together. This step might be easiest with a partner!
A string-wrapped bath bundle. In the background is a jar with a label that says Chamomile

Step 4

Place your bundle in the bath/foot spa/bowl and add warm water (or desired temperature) and relax!

Top tips

  • Remember to check for allergies, and adjust as necessary. Oats are excellent for calming irritated skin but could be omitted if desired.
  • The more the bundle soaks in the warm water, the more the scent and goodness from the oats is released into the water.
  • If you are in the bath, you can feel free to rub it on your skin like a kind of sponge
  • Discard contents after use, rinse and wash fabric square to use again.