Why Does Soap Get Mushy in Winter?
Let’s break it down:
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Steam and condensation from longer showers create extra moisture in your bathroom.
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Cooler room temperatures slow evaporation, so your soap stays wet longer.
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Soft water (more common in winter climates) can also leave a slick film on your bar.
These conditions can cause natural soaps like ours to soften more quickly. While that’s a sign of real ingredients and no artificial hardeners, it also means a little care goes a long way.
Tip 1: Use a Well-Draining Soap Dish (It Makes a Big Difference)
If there’s only one change you make this season, make it this one.
A soap dish with proper drainage allows water to run off and air to circulate, helping your bar dry between uses. Avoid dishes that pool water underneath, as your soap will end up sitting in it like a sponge.
PS: Every Butter & Lye order over $60 gets a free soap dish. That’s one easy way to upgrade your winter routine.
Tip 2: Store It Somewhere Dry (Yes, That Might Mean Out of the Shower)
If your soap is in constant contact with water or steam, it won’t get the chance to firm up.
Instead:
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Place your bar on a ledge or shelf away from direct spray
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Or better yet, move it to a dry spot between uses
If you're using one of our body bars or facial soaps, consider slicing off a portion and only using a third of the bar at a time. The rest stays dry until you're ready (plus, it’s holiday travel ready!)
Tip 3: Let It Breathe
Natural soaps need airflow to dry properly. If you're storing your soap in a travel tin, bag, or cabinet, make sure it has a chance to breathe between uses. A mesh bag or pouch works well for storing smaller ends or carrying soap while traveling.
Tip 4: Avoid Hot Water Overload
We get it… steamy showers are a winter essential. But hot water breaks down natural soap faster, especially those rich in skin-loving oils like shea butter, olive oil, or jojoba (which we use in many of our formulas).
Try lowering the water temp slightly or keeping the bar out of the direct stream while you lather in your hands or a washcloth.
Tip 5: Choose a Harder Bar Formula
Some bars naturally last longer thanks to specific ingredients and curing methods.
For example, our Deep-Cleansing Purple Clay Bar Soap and Wheatgrass Bar Soap are on the firmer side and hold up beautifully in higher humidity. These bars include clay and botanicals that improve structure while still being gentle on skin.
Looking for a long-lasting everyday bar? Try our:
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Exfoliating Pink Clay Soap: A mild exfoliator that rinses clean
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Even-Tone Turmeric Bar: Balances skin and holds its shape well
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Filter-Finish Sage Bar: Customer favorite for both face and body
The Takeaway? Small Shifts = Longer-Lasting Soap
Winter weather doesn’t have to mean replacing your soap more often. With a bit of mindful storage and smarter usage, your natural Butter & Lye bars will go the distance.
Our soaps are made to care for you and your routine. They’re free of fillers and packed with real, plant-based ingredients— which means they’re effective, but also deserve a little TLC to last.
Shop our winter bestsellers:
