Fast Relief Shower Steamers for Sinus Congestion and Coughs 

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Last Updated on October 22, 2025 by Kiersten

These easy DIY shower steamers help clear sinuses and ease congestion using pure menthol, eucalyptus, and essential oils – perfect for cold and flu season. Variations are included for both kids and adults. 

When someone in the house is stuffed up, miserable, and doesn’t feel like standing over a pot of steam, these shower steamers are a lifesaver. They’re great for sick days, headaches, or when you feel a cold coming on. I keep a mason jar full in the linen closet so that they are on hand through cold, flu, and allergy season (basically all year lol).

They’re strong, made with menthol crystals and eucalyptus oil, and give instant relief without needing to apply anything to your skin. Toss one into the corner of the shower when anyone’s dealing with sinus pressure, a lingering cough, or that “can’t breathe through your nose” kind of congestion.

*These are intended for adults or children 12 and older. I have added the changes to make them safe for children 2 and older. You can split the batch in half to make some of each.

Shower Steamers for Adult Sinus Congestion and Coughs

Ingredients:

• 1 cup baking soda
• 1/2 cup arrowroot powder
• 1/4 cup water (adjust as needed)
• 2 tablespoons crushed menthol crystals
• 10 drops eucalyptus (radiata or globulus) essential oil
• 5 drops peppermint essential oil
• 5 drops camphor essential oil

Supplies:

Silicone mold or mini muffin tin

Instructions:

1. In a glass bowl, mix baking soda and arrowroot.

2. Crush menthol crystals (use a bag and rolling pin or mortar & pestle) and add to the dry mix.

3. Add essential oils and mix well.

4. Slowly add water one teaspoon at a time while mixing. It should feel like damp sand and hold its shape when pressed.

5. Press mixture firmly into molds or muffin tins. Let dry 12–24 hours until hardened.

6. Store in an airtight container in a cool place.

Shower Steamers for Kids With Sinus Congestion and Coughs

For kids, I significantly reduce the amount of menthol crystals and completely remove the eucalyptus, peppermint, and camphor essential oils as they are not safe for children.

Instead, lavender and Rosalina are included. Provides calming, soothing aromatherapy that helps kids relax while still supporting easier breathing.

Rosalina essential oil is a gentle alternative to eucalyptus that is safe for children, eases congestion, and supports the clearing of airways.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup baking soda
• 1/2 cup arrowroot powder
• 1/4 cup water (adjust as needed)
• 1 teaspoon crushed menthol crystals
• 15 drops rosalina essential oil
• 10 drops lavender essential oil

Follow the instructions above in the same order to make the shower steamers for kids.

How to Use:

Place one steamer on the shower floor out of direct water spray – off to the side is perfect. As it dissolves, it releases menthol and oils into the steam to open sinuses and ease breathing.

Use during a hot shower for best results.

Other Notes

These are strong and not for use in baths. If they crumble a bit after drying, just repack them more tightly next time. They’ll still work fine!

What to Pair With

On sick days, we usually use these with:

• Sinus Balm applied after the shower
• Sore Throat Spray or Garlic Honey
• Elderberry Gummies to support recovery
• Fire Water first thing in the morning

This information is intended for educational purposes only. The content created for www.naturalhomeapothecary.com has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Consult your healthcare provider for personal healthcare decision-making guidance.

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