One of the questions I get asked from time to time is:

"Why doesn't handmade soap last as long as the store-bought stuff?"

It's a fair question.

After all, nobody wants to spend money on something that disappears in a week.

But here's the thing...

The fact that handmade soap wears away more quickly is often a sign that it's doing exactly what it's supposed to do.

Handmade soap is made differently.

Mass-produced bars are designed to survive shipping, warehouses, store shelves, and years of storage.

They're engineered for consistency and longevity.

Handmade cold process soap takes a different approach.

Every batch is made with carefully selected oils and butters, mixed by hand, poured into molds, and cured for weeks before it's ready to use.

The goal isn't to create the hardest bar possible.

The goal is to create a beautiful bar that feels wonderful on your skin.

Rich oils create luxurious lather.

One of the things people notice right away when they switch to handmade soap is the creamy, bubbly lather.

That luxurious feel comes from the oils used to make the soap.

Those same nourishing oils that create a gentle cleansing experience also make the bar a little more soluble than some commercial products.

In other words...

The good stuff washes away.

And honestly? I'm okay with that.

Your soap deserves a chance to dry.

If you leave any bar of soap sitting in a puddle of water, it's going to get soft.

One of the easiest ways to make handmade soap last longer is to let it dry completely between uses.

A draining soap dish makes a huge difference.

So does keeping it out of the direct stream of the shower.

Many customers tell me their bars last significantly longer after making that one simple change.

Bigger lather doesn't always mean more soap.

It's easy to overuse handmade soap because the lather is so satisfying.

You don't need to scrub the bar all over your body.

A few swipes on a washcloth, sponge, or your hands create plenty of rich foam for a luxurious wash.

Less really is more.

Why I wouldn't change a thing.

Could I formulate a harder bar?

Sure.

But I'd have to compromise on the creamy feel and skin-loving qualities that my customers love.

That's not a trade I'm interested in making.

I've been making soap for more than 25 years, and I've always believed that using a handmade bar should feel like a small everyday luxury.

I'd rather have a bar that leaves your skin feeling soft and comfortable than one that lasts forever but leaves you reaching for lotion the second you step out of the shower.

A few simple tips to make your handmade soap last longer

• Use a draining soap dish.

• Let the bar dry completely between uses.

• Keep it out of standing water.

• Cut large bars in half and use one piece at a time.

• Store extra bars in a cool, dry place until you're ready for them.

With a little care, your handmade soap will reward you with weeks of rich lather and a shower you'll actually look forward to.

And if it disappears a little faster than the grocery store bar?

Well...that's often the price of choosing something made by hand instead of made by machine.

Personally, I think it's worth every bubbly second.

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Looking for a bar you'll actually look forward to using?

Browse our collection of handmade goat milk soaps and discover why so many customers keep coming back for just one more bar.

 

Want to get the most out of your bar? Read How to Make Handmade Soap Last Longer: 7 Simple Tips.