Why does handcrafted soap cost more than store-bought soap?

A bar of soap from the supermarket can cost a dollar or two. A handcrafted bar usually costs several times that. Here is why, in plain terms, and how to judge whether it is worth it for you.

Small batches cost more per bar

Large factories make soap in huge volumes, which lowers the cost of each bar. Handcrafted soap in general is often made in smaller batches, so the cost of ingredients, labor and packaging is spread across fewer bars.

The ingredient list matters

Look at what a bar is made from. Our bars use a saponified plant-oil base, and the product pages list every ingredient. For example, Aloe & Cool Cucumber Soap lists saponified organic extra virgin olive oil, organic palm oil, organic coconut oil and organic shea butter, plus fragrance, chromium oxide and aloe vera. Calming Lavender Soap uses lavender essential oil and lavender buds.

Plant oils, butters and essential oils generally cost more than the cheapest bases and synthetic fillers. That shows up in the price.

A full ingredient list helps you decide

Many mass-market bars are sold as beauty bars or body bars, and the wording can be vague. With every ingredient listed, you can look for what you like and avoid what you do not, such as fragrance or milk.

What does a bar cost here?

Our soaps are $20 each, except Oat Milk + Honey at $15. Each is 3.5 to 4 oz. Sets bring the price per bar down: take a look at our bundles, including the complete soap collection and our soap trios, which are $45.

Is it worth it?

That depends on what you value. If you like a rich lather, a scent you enjoy and knowing exactly what is in the bar, handcrafted soap is a small daily upgrade. If you only want something basic, a cheaper bar does the job and that is fine too.

A handcrafted bar can also last a while if you let it dry between uses. We cover that in our guide on making a bar of soap last longer. Not sure where to start? Take the 60-second quiz.

Frequently asked questions

Is handcrafted soap better for my skin?

Not automatically. It depends on your skin and the ingredients. Our soaps are cosmetic cleansing bars, so read the list and patch-test a new bar.

Why do your bars cost $20?

The price reflects the plant-oil base, the essential oils or fragrance, and handcrafted production. Every ingredient is listed on each product page.

Is there a cheaper way to try a bar?

Oat Milk + Honey is $15, and sets can bring down the cost of each bar.