If you're new to handmade soap, you might be wondering: does handmade soap last as long as store-bought soap?
It's a common question, one I did not know until I started making and using handmade soap. The answer? Handmade soap does NOT last as long as store-bought soap. It's not supposed to. It's like asking if fruit and vegetables last as long as a cereal box. We know organic and natural products usually have a shorter shelf life, but are usually better for you.
All natural handmade soaps contain glycerin, a natural moisturizing byproduct that retains water. While great for the skin, glycerin is a humectant that draws moisture from the air, making a softer and more dissolvable bar. Commercially made soaps contain synthetic hardeners that retain/attract less water, keeping the bar hard and lasting longer. While the store-bought soap may last longer, its less moisturizing and beneficial for the skin (thee largest organ on your body).
So handmade or store-bought? It's a personal choice.
Why do some handmade soaps don't last as long as others?
So you made the choice to go with natural handmade soap but wondering why some dissolve much faster than other handmade soaps, this depends on a few factors like the ingredients used, how the soap is cured, and how it's stored between uses. When made properly a bar can last you a few weeks of daily use while providing a richer, more nourishing cleanse than many commercial soaps.
Handmade soap is also usually made with skin nourishing oils and butters that make a soap softer, but one of the reasons it is loved for its gentle and moisturizing properties. Think olive oil, coconut oil, castor oil, and shea butter, all amazing ingredients that promote moisturized and soft skin.
Tips to make Handmade Soap Last Longer
With a few simple habits, you can significantly extend the life of your soap bar.
- Use a draining soap dish - A soap dish that allows water to drain away prevents the bar from sitting in moisture.
- Keep soap out of standing water- After showering, place the soap somewhere it can fully dry.
- Allow airflow around the bar- Good airflow helps soap firm up between uses.
- Rotate betwene multiple bars- Many people enjoy keeping two soaps and alternating them to give each one time to dry completely.
- Cut soap in Half- Similar to the above, you can rotate between halves to help each one dry
The Importance of Properly Cured Soap
Handmade soap also needs time to cure after it is made. Curing allows excess water to evaporate and creates a harder, longer-lasting bar.
High-quality artisan soap makers typically cure their soaps several weeks before selling it. This process improves both the longevity of the bar and the quality of the lather.
Why Many People Prefer Handmade Soap
Even though handmade soap may feel softer than commercial bars, many people prefer it because of the ingredients and overal skin experience.
Benefits include:
- Nourishing plant-based oils
- Naturally occurring glycerin that supports hydration
- Rich, creamy lather
- Gentle cleansing without harsh detergents
For many people, the difference is noticeable after just a few uses.
Discover the Difference of Handmade Soap
At Washo House, our soaps are crafted in small batches using simple and carefully selected oils and butters. Each bar is designed to create a rich lather while helping your skin feel clean, soft, and refreshed.
If you're exploring handmade soap for the first time, a well-care-for bar can provide weeks of luxurious use while elevating your daily routing.