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 retains its naturally formed glycerin, which helps skin feel comfortable. 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 glycerin and use nature-led ingredients for a gentle, skin-loving wash.

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. When properly formulated and fully cured, no free lye remains in the finished bar.

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 fresh, 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?
Most are vegan friendly. Please check each product page—some bars include goat milk or honey.

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?
Sustainability is a priority. We work in small batches to reduce waste and use recyclable and/or compostable packaging wherever possible. Two exceptions are our soap labels and shipping tape—while the label paper is recyclable, the adhesive/liner and the tape aren’t curbside recyclable yet. We’re testing more earth-friendly options; in the meantime, please remove the soap label and tape before recycling or composting the rest.

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.

Can I cancel or change my order?
If your order hasn’t been fulfilled or a shipping label created, we’ll do our best to accommodate. Once a label is generated or the order ships, changes aren’t possible.