Are Handmade Bar Soaps as Hygienic as Liquid Soap?
Some people have told me that they would love to switch to natural soap bars to avoid chemicals and reduce plastic waste, but they worry that soap bars might not be as hygienic as liquid soap.
First, it's important to remember that soap making is an ancient practice, dating back as far as 2800 BCE. Soap is created through the process of saponification, where an acid (such as animal fats, vegetable oils, or butters) reacts with a base (sodium hydroxide). The result is a product that does two key things: it decreases the surface tension of water and binds to dirt, oil, and bacteria, allowing them to be washed away.
Our bodies are home to over 100 trillion microbes. This microbiome is essential for human development, immunity, and nutrition. Our skin contains thousands of different bacteria, fungi, and viruses that live on and inside the body, helping to keep us healthy.
What About Germs on Soap Bars?
Yes, germs can live on all bars of soap, just as they can stay on the pump of a liquid soap bottle in your bathroom. However, it’s very unlikely that these germs will make you sick or cause a skin infection. This is because our natural microbiome, along with good hygiene practices, keeps our skin healthy. Only those with compromised immune systems need to be extra cautious and might benefit from using a specific type of liquid soap.
Bacteria and germs thrive in moist environments, so it’s important to care for your soap bar properly:
- Keep the soap dry: Always store your soap away from water, such as in a well-drained soap dish or a dry area of the bathtub.
- Allow it to dry between uses: This helps prevent the growth of bacteria on the bar.
- Rinse the soap: After each use, rinse your soap under running water before lathering up to remove any lingering moisture on the outer surface.
Is It Safe to Share a Soap Bar with Family Members?
Yes, it is generally safe to share a soap bar with family members. When living together, your bodies have likely adapted to the same environment, and you probably share many of the same microorganisms, so there’s little cause for concern. However, it’s a good idea to provide a fresh soap bar for guests when they visit.