What Is a Shower Steamer? A Beginner’s Guide to Aromatherapy in the Shower

A Simpler Way to Feel Better: Shower Steamers 101

If you’ve ever wished your quick daily shower could feel more like a spa moment, you’re not alone. While bath bombs and soaks have long been the go-to for relaxation, shower steamers are gaining momentum as an effective, easy-to-use alternative—especially for people who prefer showers to baths.

So, what is a shower steamer?

According to The Materials Design Co., “A shower steamer is placed on the floor of the shower and evaporates in the steam, releasing a burst of fragrance.”

And that’s the magic. As water activates the tablet, essential oils are released into the steam, allowing you to inhale calming or energizing aromas while you go about your normal routine. It’s functional aromatherapy for real life.

How Shower Steamers Work

A shower steamer is a solid, tablet-like puck made of simple base ingredients like baking soda and citric acid. These ingredients fizz and dissolve when exposed to water. The difference between a steamer and a bath bomb? You don’t soak with it—you breathe it in.

When placed on the floor of your shower (away from direct water flow), steamers slowly dissolve and release concentrated essential oil vapors. The scent rises with the steam, creating a therapeutic cloud of aromatherapy that surrounds you while you wash.

Why Use a Shower Steamer?

Shower steamers are ideal for:

• People who don’t have a bathtub (or prefer not to use it)

• Quick wellness rituals that fit into any schedule

• Creating a spa-like atmosphere without needing candles or diffusers

• Targeted benefits depending on scent (relaxation, energy, sinus relief)

They're convenient, mess-free, and can make a daily habit feel intentional.

The Power of Aromatherapy in the Shower

Essential oils don’t just smell good. When inhaled, they interact with the olfactory system, sending signals to the brain that can influence mood, stress levels, and even physical tension.

Here are some commonly used oils in shower steamers and their benefits:

• Lavender: Reduces stress, promotes sleep, calms anxiety

• Roman Chamomile: Supports nervous system balance, lowers emotional tension

• Menthol: Clears congestion, boosts alertness, supports respiratory function

Explore Keem Keem's full collection of steamers →

Featured Product: Keem Keem Lavender Shower Steamers

Try Keem Keem Lavender Shower Steamers →

Our Lavender Shower Steamers are designed to help you reset—especially in the evening when your body is asking for calm. Infused with pure lavender essential oil and no artificial fillers, these 2oz hexagon tablets slowly release their scent in the steam, making every shower feel like a mini escape.

• 10 steamers per pack

• Easy to use: just drop at your feet before turning on the water

• Gentle but powerful aroma

• No mess or cleanup afterward

How to Use a Shower Steamer

1. Turn on your shower and let it get steamy

2. Place the steamer at the far end of the shower (not directly under the water)

3. Let it fizz and release the essential oils into the air

4. Inhale deeply and enjoy your spa moment

Bonus tip: Close the bathroom door to trap the steam and make the scent last longer.

Shop Lavender Shower Steamers for relaxation →

How to Use a Shower Steamer

1. Turn on your shower and let it get steamy

2. Place the steamer at the far end of the shower (not directly under the water)

3. Let it fizz and release the essential oils into the air

4. Inhale deeply and enjoy your spa moment

Bonus tip: Close the bathroom door to trap the steam and make the scent last longer.

Shop Lavender Shower Steamers for relaxation →