How to get the most of your soap and shampoo bars and prevent cracking

Do you want to avoid your soap or shampoo bars cracking, mushing or generally becoming less appealing after a few uses? Don't worry, there is a way to get the most out of them with a few small hacks. In this post, we'll share some tips and tricks for storing your bars so you can enjoy them longer.

We all know soap and shampoo bars are more cost-effective and environmentally friendly than their liquid counterparts in many ways. However, despite their many benefits, bars can quickly become unappealing, especially if they are not stored considerately. Mushy, cracked bars sitting in water are not appealing to anyone.

Why do bars crack?

Soap and Syndet bars can crack due to exposure to moisture and rapid temperature changes. Moisture is more often to blame as it softens the soap, making it more susceptible to cracking when it dries. Soap bars with high water content, poor curing, or certain formulations with high amounts of oils or butters can also contribute to cracking.

Additionally, extreme temperature fluctuations can cause expansion or contraction, leading to cracks in soap bars.

Store soap bars in a dry, cool place to help prevent cracking.

What can you do to get the most out of your bars? Here are some tips we recommend:

1. Use a soap dish with good drainage holes: This will allow the water to drain away from the bar, preventing it from sitting in water and becoming mushy and soft. Plus, it will help the bar dry out between uses, preventing cracking and making it last longer.

2. Hang bars in a soap bag or use a soap magnet: If you don't have a soap dish or want to keep your bar away from water altogether, consider hanging it in a soap bag or use a soap magnet. This will allow it to dry out completely between uses and prevent it from melting or becoming too wet.

3. Cut bars into smaller pieces: If your bar is too large, consider cutting it into smaller pieces. This can help it dry out more quickly between uses and make it easier to handle in the shower or bath.

4. Allow bars to dry between uses: This is perhaps the most important tip. To prevent your bar from mushing or cracking, ensure it has plenty of time to dry out between uses. This may mean leaving it in the open air for a few hours before putting it away.

5. Use a soap saver: If you're struggling to keep your bar dry, consider investing in a soap saver. These small mesh bags are designed to hold bars of soap and allow them to dry out completely. They're perfect for those who live in humid climates or have exceptionally moist bathrooms.

To sum it up, there are many ways to get the most out of your soap and shampoo bars. By following these simple tips and tricks, you can prevent your bars from cracking, mushing, or becoming unappealing, and can enjoy them for longer.