There’s something inherently soothing about eucalyptus in the shower the way it mingles with the steam, releasing an herbal, menthol-like aroma that makes you breathe deeper and feel more grounded. If you’ve ever dangled a bunch of eucalyptus from your showerhead or used eucalyptus-scented bath products, you know the feeling. It’s invigorating, calming, and somehow makes an ordinary shower feel like a spa ritual.
But if you’re looking to take that eucalyptus experience up a notch without the mess or plastic waste eucalyptus steam discs might be exactly what your bathroom routine is missing.
Why Eucalyptus?
Eucalyptus isn’t just a pretty scent. It has long been used in traditional and herbal medicine for its multitude of therapeutic benefits. A comprehensive review from Indian researchers analyzed over 100 studies and confirmed eucalyptus’ wide range of healing properties including antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antiviral, and even anti-cancer potential.
While we wouldn’t suggest a shower disc as a substitute for medicine, it’s hard to deny the psychological and physical perks of standing in a steamy shower while eucalyptus vapor fills the air. Whether you’re under the weather, dealing with seasonal congestion, or simply in need of a little mental reset, a eucalyptus-infused shower can offer relief in the most refreshing way.
How Eucalyptus Shower Discs Work
Think of these discs as essential oil diffusers, but for your shower. They’re compact, solid tablets that release aromatic eucalyptus (and sometimes complementary oils like peppermint and menthol) when exposed to hot water. As the disc dissolves in the corner of your shower, it releases plant-based vapors that mingle with the steam and fill the bathroom with spa-like scent.
The Zero Waste Twist
What makes these shower discs especially appealing beyond their heavenly scent is their sustainability. The version sold at Free the Ocean comes in a reusable glass jar and contains no plastic whatsoever. Every purchase funds the removal of ocean plastic and supports a zero waste lifestyle.
- Packaging: Recyclable and reusable glass jar (no plastic waste)
- Sizes: Regular (9 discs) or Mini (4 discs)
- Longevity: Each disc lasts for about two showers
- Ingredients: Sodium salts, natural clays, plant-based stearic acid, eucalyptus oil, peppermint oil, menthol, and eucalyptol
These simple ingredients create a slow-release delivery system for the oils letting the disc dissolve slowly so the aroma lingers through the duration of your shower.
A Moment of Ritual
Founder of Free the Ocean, Mimi Ausland, describes her first impression: “The beautiful glass packaging (no plastic!) is what first caught my eye with these shower discs. Then, the smell! It immediately makes you feel more relaxed before you even get in the shower. It’s a simple and sweet way to treat yourself when you’re feeling sick or need to clear your head.”
And that’s really the appeal it’s not just about how it smells. It’s about creating a pause in the day. A ritual. A few moments in the shower to breathe, relax, and let the stress melt off your shoulders all while reducing your plastic footprint.
How to Use
Using the eucalyptus disc couldn’t be easier. Just place one in the corner of your shower somewhere it’ll get splashed but not soaked and let it do its thing. As it fizzes slowly, it will release the eucalyptus and peppermint vapors into the air.
If you want to get even more from the experience, try:
- Shutting the bathroom door to trap the steam and scent
- Taking slow, deep breaths for a DIY aromatherapy session
- Pairing with a relaxing playlist or meditative sounds
Good for You, Good for the Planet
In addition to the self-care benefits, these discs also serve a higher purpose. Every jar purchased from Free the Ocean removes 10 pieces of plastic from the ocean or coastal areas. That means your morning routine can do double duty caring for you and caring for the planet.
Whether you’re looking for a new wellness ritual or trying to reduce waste in your personal care products, eucalyptus steam discs are a small luxury with a big impact. As we always say: a spa day might be as close as your next shower.
This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your physician regarding any questions you may have regarding your health.