The last project in our series of Mother’s Day gift ideas is Tub Tea! Relaxing in a hot bath is even more invigorating when the water and steam are infused with a calming aroma.

Tub teas are very simple, but also leave room for some creativity in choosing botanicals and mixing scents. I used lavender and chamomile in my teas, but lemon verbena, peppermint, rosemary, or rosebuds, mixing and matching as you go. The important requirement is that you use organic botanicals in the teas; I found many options in bulk at Huckleberry’s and purchased them for just a couple of dollars. (I do love bulk buying!).

To make the teas pictured above, place 1/8 cup of dried herbs in a fusible or other tea filter, then seal the bag and add a tag. I used some loose tea filter bags I purchased at a tea store years ago—they are perfect for the job. If you don’t have access to a similar product, you can also use plain, washed muslin. Simply cut muslin into approximately 8” circles (perfection isn’t necessary), place 1/8 cup of dried botanicals in the center, gather the edges and tie tightly with cotton string.

I added a tag to my tea bags, but would pull it off before placing in the bath (though I used natural paper, so it wouldn’t leech dye into the water if left on). 

Create a basket with a selection of tub teas, a favorite novel, a small bottle of champagne or sparkling juice, and a few delicious chocolates: the ultimate care package for relaxing. Or add some tub teas to a gift with peppermint foot scrub with instructions to add a bag to a steamy foot soak.

Tub teas make a simple, useful gift that (hopefully) will encourage someone you love to put aside some time for herself to relax.

 

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