Common Questions

PRODUCTS

What is natural handmade soap and how is it different from commercial soap?
Natural handmade soap is made in small batches by the cold process or hot process method. We use cold process—no external heat—so the natural qualities of our oils, butters, clays, and botanicals shine. Handmade soap also retains its naturally formed glycerin, which helps skin feel soft and comfortable after washing. Commercial “soap” is typically mass-produced with synthetic detergents, stabilizers, and colorants. Glycerin is often removed for use in other products and only added back in small amounts. Our bars keep all of their natural glycerin and are made with simple, skin-supportive ingredients.

What is sodium hydroxide (also called lye) and why do you use it?
All true soap is made with sodium hydroxide (lye). During saponification, oils and lye chemically transform into soap and glycerin. Once the process is complete and the bar is fully cured, no lye remains in the finished product.

What is tallow and why do you use it?
Tallow is a traditional skincare fat rendered from beef suet. When properly prepared, it becomes a rich, skin-compatible moisturizer that closely resembles the natural oils found in healthy skin. For our body butters and lip balms, we source high-quality kidney suet from grass-fed, grass-finished cattle raised on small family farms. Suet produces a cleaner, more refined tallow that creates a smooth, nourishing butter for the skin. The result is deep moisture that absorbs beautifully and leaves skin soft and comfortable without feeling greasy.

Why does natural soap not smell as strong as commercial soap?
We scent with essential oils, which are naturally lighter than synthetic fragrances. We also keep usage levels skin-safe and comfortable. Expect a soft, true-to-nature aroma that blooms in the shower and softens on dry skin. To preserve scent, store bars cool and dry, out of sunlight.

Are your soaps suitable for vegans?
Many of our current bars are made entirely with plant-based oils. Some include ingredients such as goat milk or honey. As our collection grows, we also plan to introduce traditional tallow-based soaps. Please check each product page for a complete ingredient list so you can choose what aligns best with your preferences.

Do you use palm oil in your soap?
No. All of our soaps are palm-free. We choose to be palm-free out of respect for ecosystems and sourcing transparency. Much of the world’s palm oil comes from biodiverse regions where expansion has meant deforestation and habitat loss. While certified options exist, supply chains can be complex and hard to verify end-to-end. Until we can source from growers using verifiable, regenerative practices, we opt out.

Are your products environmentally friendly?
Caring for the land matters to us. We craft in small batches and choose packaging with care, using recyclable or compostable materials whenever possible. Some items, such as waterproof body butter labels, shipping tape, or seasonal gift packaging like ribbons, may not be curbside recyclable. We are always looking for better options, and when possible, we recommend removing labels and tape before recycling or composting the remaining packaging.

Will this soap dry out my skin?

Our soaps are made with oils that support your skin, not strip it. They cleanse gently and leave your skin feeling soft and conditioned after your shower —no rush to lotion.

How long does natural soap last?
Longevity depends on use and storage. With a draining dish and drying between uses, a bar typically lasts three to four weeks. Using a washcloth, pouf, or soap saver pouch helps bars last longer.

How should I care for my natural soap?
Keep your bar on a draining dish and allow it to dry between uses. Store unused bars in a cool, dry place. Handmade soap often mellows with time; even as scent softens, the bar remains perfectly usable. For best aroma, enjoy within 6–8 months.

ORDERS

What if I placed an order using the wrong shipping address?
Email us right away. If the package hasn’t shipped, we’ll update the address. If it has shipped, we can’t reroute it. Most misaddressed packages return to us; we’ll reship to the correct address with a new shipping invoice.

Can I modify an order after it has been placed?
If your order hasn’t been fulfilled or a shipping label created, we’ll do our best to accommodate changes. Once a label is generated or the order ships, modifications aren’t possible.

How long will it take to receive my order?
Processing typically takes 1-3 business days. Transit times depend on the carrier and destination, usually 3-5 business days within the contiguous U.S. You’ll receive tracking by email as soon as your order ships. During sale events, holidays or severe weather, please allow extra time.

Do you offer local pick up?
Not yet. We plan to offer local pickup in the future. Please check back or join our email list for updates.

RETURNS

Do you accept returns?
For hygiene and safety, we don’t accept returns or exchanges on soap or any personal-care items. All soaps (including Farmhouse Flubs/seconds) are final sale.

My order arrived damaged—who handles that?
We do. Email us within 48 hours of delivery with your order number and clear photos of the damaged box/package and damaged item. We’ll make it right with a replacement. No need to send the bar back.