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Why are CBD bath bombs expensive?

Tub Therapy | Vanilla Sandalwood CBD bath bomb fizzing in water, turning it into a soft mocha brown color.

CBD bath bombs have surged in popularity thanks to their soothing effects and potential therapeutic benefits. Yet, many consumers are taken aback by their relatively high price tags compared to traditional bath bombs. While standard bath bombs may fetch around $8 each, CBD-infused counterparts often command nearly double the price. Is it truly worth splurging on a CBD bath bomb, and why is it so expensive?

To understand the reasons behind the cost of CBD bath bombs, it's essential to consider various factors involved in their production.

Factors Contributing to the Higher Cost of CBD Bath Bombs

1. The CBD

The most obvious factor influencing the cost of CBD bath bombs is the CBD itself. It's first important to clarify that we are referring to compliant cannabidiol distillate extract sourced from US-grown hemp farms or labs, specifically utilized by CBD bath bomb businesses in crafting their products. This is different from the CBD oil tinctures commonly preferred by DIY bath bomb enthusiasts, which are readily available for purchase by the bottle in CBD stores.

The CBD extract sourced from hemp labs or farms carries a hefty price tag for several reasons:

  • Cultivation and Extraction: Growing high-quality hemp and extracting CBD is labor-intensive and requires advanced technology. The extraction process, especially for full-spectrum CBD, involves sophisticated methods to ensure the preservation of all cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids.
  • Regulation and Testing: CBD products must undergo rigorous testing to ensure purity, potency, and safety. These tests are essential to comply with legal standards and consumer expectations but add to the overall cost.
  • Market Demand: The popularity of CBD and its therapeutic benefits drive up demand, which in turn raises prices.

Furthermore, the type of CBD used can also contribute to the CBD bath bomb’s price tag. Three main types of CBD can be used in bath bombs: full-spectrum CBD, broad-spectrum CBD, and CBD isolate.

  • Full-Spectrum CBD: Contains all the cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant, including trace amounts of THC. It’s the most expensive type of CBD due to its comprehensive profile, which some believe offers enhanced benefits through the "entourage effect."
  • Broad-Spectrum CBD: Contains multiple cannabinoids but is THC-free. It’s less expensive than full-spectrum but still pricier than isolate.
  • CBD Isolate: Pure CBD with no other cannabinoids. This is the least expensive form of CBD.

CBD bath bombs with full-spectrum CBD are pricier because, let's face it, full-spectrum is the champagne of the CBD world. It's the most expensive CBD. This is due to its comprehensive cannabinoid profile, which includes all the cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant, including trace amounts of THC. The presence of multiple cannabinoids enhances the potential benefits through the "entourage effect," making full-spectrum CBD more desirable and, consequently, more expensive.

Additionally, the dosage of CBD in each bath bomb plays a significant role in the cost. Higher dosages mean more CBD, leading to higher prices. For instance, a bath bomb containing 50mg of CBD will be cheaper than one with 100mg.

 

2. Ingredients and raw materials

Other ingredients, such as essential oils, fragrances, and moisturizing agents, also contribute to the cost. High-quality, natural ingredients, in particular, are significantly more expensive than synthetic alternatives. As a result, a natural bath bomb will be more costly than one made with lesser or synthetic ingredients.

Furthermore, the price variability of raw materials such as essential oils, citric acid, baking soda, colorants or dyes, and other natural ingredients like butters, emollients, and even toppings like glitters and dried flowers can fluctuate significantly due to external market conditions. For example, the cost of essential oils alone increased by 25% in 2022. This compels bath bomb businesses to maintain a higher profit margin to safeguard their financial resources against these unpredictable cost increases. 

 

3. Size of the Bath Bomb

The size of the bath bomb is another cost factor. Larger bath bombs require more ingredients across the board – not just CBD, but also base materials like baking soda, citric acid, and essential oils. Bigger bath bombs provide a more luxurious experience but at a higher cost due to the increased quantity of all components.

 

4. Business Costs 

Beyond the cost of ingredients, several other business expenses contribute to the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of CBD bath bombs:

Labor is a significant factor, as producing CBD bath bombs requires skilled workers to ensure precise measurements and consistent quality. Additionally, attractive and protective packaging, often made from high-quality or eco-friendly materials, further increases costs. 

Another crucial expense is laboratory testing, necessary to ensure the CBD content is accurate and free from contaminants. This testing is an additional cost that traditional bath bombs do not incur and is only mandated for CBD businesses. 

Shipping CBD products involves regulatory compliance and higher shipping fees due to the nature of the product, along with handling fees, insurance, and logistics, all of which add to the overall cost. 

For a CBD bath bomb business to be sustainable and experience growth, maintaining a healthy profit margin is essential. A healthy profit margin means the company is keeping more money from each dollar of sales, which can be reinvested into the business for growth. 

Typically, for bath bomb businesses, a profit margin of at least 40% is ideal. By maintaining a profit margin of at least 40%, CBD bath bomb businesses can ensure they cover their costs and have funds available for expansion, product development, and other growth opportunities.

 

What is the cost per minute of a $15 CBD bath bomb?

Struggling to justify the splurge on a $15 bath bomb for a one-time indulgence? Let's break it down with a little "Girl Math" and see what we're really getting for our money.

It typically takes 30 minutes to fully enjoy and soak in the benefits of a CBD bath bomb bath so when factoring in the duration of the bath, with a $15 bath bomb, the cost per minute breaks down to $0.50 per minute. This can be calculated by dividing the price by the duration of use. So, if the bath bomb costs $15 and you spend 30 minutes soaking in the tub, you only pay $0.50 per minute of indulgence. 

While we can all playfully refer to this logic as "Girl Math," it's important to take this calculation with a grain of salt. What we’re really trying to say is:  a $15 CBD bath bomb, packed with premium full-spectrum CBD and natural ingredients, and boasting a size that outshines its traditional counterparts, delivers bang for your buck when it comes to pure indulgence.

 

Treat yourself to the ultimate in bath time luxury at a mere $0.50 a minute: Tub Therapy Soakshow CBD Bath Bomb in Sweet Lavender, $15 each with free shipping

 

Here’s how you can save on a CBD bath bomb

Still feeling hesitant about the $15 splurge but itching to indulge in the joy of CBD bath bombs? There are many ways to savor the experience while being savvy with your spending such as:

  • Subscribe to the Brand's Newsletter: Join the club! Subscribing to a CBD bath bomb brand's newsletter often comes with perks. Enjoy a sweet discount just for signing up. Plus, gain exclusive access to sales, promos, and subscriber-only deals. Snag your CBD bath bombs when the brand rolls out those irresistible discounts.

  • Buy in Bundles: Go big or go home! Purchasing multiple CBD bath bombs at once can lead to significant savings. Not only do you get to stock up on your favorites, but bundling up also helps cut down on shipping costs, which are often based on weight. It's a win-win!

  • Hint, Hint - Ask for Gifts: Drop some hints! What you might hesitate to buy for yourself, others might gladly gift, especially on special occasions. Drop a subtle hint about your CBD bath bomb obsession to friends and family. Who knows, you might unwrap a fizzy surprise under the Christmas tree at your family's Kris Kringle party! At just $15 a pop, it's a budget-friendly option that everyone can appreciate.


Are CBD bath bombs worth the money?

When it comes to soaking your entire naked body in a tub, you don't want to immerse yourself in a cocktail of chemicals, right? That's why it's crucial to be mindful of what goes into your bath water. High-quality CBD bath bombs, made with premium ingredients, naturally come with a higher price tag. But are they worth the splurge? Absolutely. 

Bath time is an occasional indulgence for most of us, with weekly baths being a luxury. Why use cheap products for such an important self-care ritual? Investing in a CBD bath bomb ensures that your skin is treated to the best, making each soak a rejuvenating and indulgent experience. 

 

Our verdict?

The cost of CBD bath bombs is driven by several factors, each contributing to the overall value and effectiveness of the product. Firstly, the type and dosage of CBD play a significant role. Full-spectrum CBD, for instance, offers a broader range of cannabinoids and terpenes, leading to enhanced therapeutic effects compared to CBD isolates. Additionally, the dosage of CBD per bath bomb influences its price, with higher dosages commanding a higher cost due to the increased amount of CBD used.

Moreover, the quality of other ingredients in CBD bath bombs also contributes to their cost. High-quality natural ingredients such as essential oils, botanical extracts, and moisturizing agents not only enhance the aroma and feel of the bath bomb but also provide additional therapeutic benefits for the skin and senses. These premium ingredients come at a higher cost compared to synthetic alternatives but ensure a more luxurious and nourishing bathing experience.

When considering the price of CBD bath bombs, it's essential to factor in the overall value they provide. While a $8 ordinary bath bomb may contain only a handful of ingredients, including potentially harmful synthetic additives, a CBD bath bomb offers a comprehensive blend of natural, beneficial components. 

By soaking in a CBD-infused bath, you're not just cleansing your body; you're indulging in a holistic wellness experience that nourishes both the body and mind. Therefore, despite the higher price tag, CBD bath bombs are well worth the investment for those seeking a premium, rejuvenating bathing experience.