Shower Steamers

1. Wipe or rinse out mouth.
2. Give a serving size of water to drink.
3. Rinse any exposed skin with lukewarm water and soap.
4. Call 1-800-222-1222 for additional instructions.

Shower steamers, also called shower tablets or aromatherapy steamers, are highly fragranced, dissolvable tablets for the shower. They are designed to melt and release a pleasant aroma from essential oils or other fragrances into the steam. Shower steamers may be used as aromatherapy to improve mood, promote relaxation or sleep, or relieve congestion. However, there is no solid research to support these claims.

Are shower steamers safe?

Used as directed, aromatherapy tablets pose little risk. Like bath bombs, they usually contain baking soda, citric acid, and essential oils or fragrances. They may also include small amounts of binders, such as cornstarch, and other ingredients. While these ingredients are generally low risk, they can be hazardous in some cases.

Most essential oils and fragrances are minor irritants. Shower steamers often have a higher concentration of essential oils or fragrances compared to bath bombs. Direct skin contact may be irritating. For this reason, they should not be used in the bathtub. Shower steamers may also trigger allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.

Shower tablets come in various shapes, colors, and sizes. They may even look like food or treats. This can confuse young children and lead them to taste or swallow shower steamers. If ingested, these products quickly fizz in the mouth and may irritate the mouth and throat. Swallowed ingredients may bubble up in the stomach and cause bloating, belching, nausea, and sometimes vomiting and diarrhea.

Using simple safety precautions with shower steamers will ensure a pleasant experience. Children should always be supervised when using aromatherapy steamers to prevent accidental ingestion. People with sensitive skin or allergies should use caution when using aromatherapy shower tablets and avoid direct skin contact.

If a shower steamer touches your skin, rinse the area well with water to remove any residue. For those with sensitive skin, it’s a good idea to wash with mild soap and water to avoid irritation.

If you find your child has eaten a small amount of a shower tablet, stay calm. Wipe out the mouth with a soft, wet cloth. Offer them water to drink. Call the Missouri Poison Center right away at 1-800-222-1222. The poison center is open all day, every day, for poisoning emergencies and questions.