The lifespan of a natural soap bar can vary based on several factors: how often you bathe or shower, the number of people using it, and how you care for the bar itself. Here’s a guide to help you get the most out of your natural soap.
How Long Can You Expect Your Soap to Last?
In general, a well-drained natural soap bar should last about a month for one person who showers daily. Natural soaps are typically softer than commercial soaps due to the natural glycerin they retain, which is often removed during commercial soap production. They also don’t contain the artificial hardening chemicals or synthetic waxes found in commercial products, so they require a little extra care.
At The Australian Olive Oil Soap, we "superfat" our soaps by adding extra oils or butters to the formula. This means each bar is designed not only to cleanse but also to soothe, soften, and moisturise your skin, providing a gentle, luxurious experience with every use.
Tips for Making Your Natural Soap Last Longer
To help your soap bar go the distance, here are a few practical tips:
1. Store It Properly
- Keep your soap in a cool, dark room before use to maintain its quality. Handmade soaps can generally be used within two years of production (or slightly longer, up to six additional months). However, improper storage can lead to a change in scent or colour. If your soap develops an off smell or slight discolouration, you can trim off the outer layer and still use the inside as hand soap.
2. Avoid Soaking
- After using the soap, don’t let it sit in water. Prolonged exposure to water can make the bar soft and mushy, reducing its lifespan significantly.
3. Use a Well-Drained Soap Dish
- Placing your soap on a well-drained soap dish or rack in the shower allows it to dry out between uses. This helps prevent the bar from becoming overly soft and melting too quickly. A soap dish with ridges or holes works best, as it allows water to drain away from the soap.
4. Air Dry Between Uses
- Let your soap air dry in a well-ventilated area. Ideally, keep it away from direct heat or high humidity to preserve its integrity. If you have multiple bars, you might consider rotating between them to give each one extra drying time.
5. Revive Gooey Soap Bars
- If your soap bar gets soaked and becomes gooey, simply place it on a well-drained soap dish and allow it to dry thoroughly over a couple of days. This can help restore its firmness, allowing you to continue enjoying the bar.
By following these simple storage and care tips, you can extend the life of your natural soap and maximise its benefits. Treating your soap bar with care not only saves you money but also ensures you enjoy the full, soothing experience of natural, handmade soap. Embrace the unique qualities of natural soaps—they’re crafted to provide a gentle, nourishing cleanse without any artificial additives, bringing you closer to the essence of pure skincare.
With proper care, your natural soap bar can last beautifully, giving you a truly sustainable and luxurious self-care experience.
Thank you!