Homemade soap have an “ideal” shelf life of one to two years but can potentially last for much longer if placed in a favorable environment when not in use.
The scents and colors used in soaps may fade over time even under optimal conditions after a number of years. Despite the potential drawbacks with these issues, homemade soaps can generally continue to provide great lathering properties for years to come. We’ve personally found that older stored soap bars that don’t smell as strong initially will become more fragrant once they are put to use.
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Avoid damp and/or humid environments which can cause soap to sweat and become mushy
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Avoid allowing soap bar to remain within direct contact of spray from the shower
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Keep soap bars dry between uses with the use of a soap dish that will drain excess water away from the bar
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Choose a soap dish with holes, rungs, or risers that will allow air to circulate while also draining excess water from around the soap bar
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Store additional soap bars for later use in a cool, dry location
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Larger soap bars can be cut into smaller pieces and used one at a time to extend use
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Maximize your soap’s value with the use of soap saver bags to gather smaller (single or combined) pieces of soap bars for use instead of disposing
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Avoid allowing soap to come in contact with your eyes
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If soap comes in contact with your eyes, do not rub and rinse eyes immediately with cold water for 15 minutes
