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The 13 Best Non Toxic Soaps with Organic Ingredients
Did you know that the best non toxic soaps can make your skin glow without risking your health?
From the time soap was invented, people have used it for cleanliness. But over the years, soap manufacturers started adding harmful chemicals like phthalates and triclosan, compromising our health for the sake of "hygiene."
Luckily, there are brands that offer natural soaps using natural organic ingredients for those of us who want to maintain non-toxic living while staying clean.
In this article, we'll explore the organic soaps that keep us fresh and why switching to these chemical free soap alternatives can make a big difference in our health.
Why Switch to Natural Non Toxic Soaps?
Imagine washing your face with something that might secretly be harming your skin and health. That's the reality with many conventional soaps. They're often packed with troublemakers like phthalates and triclosan - ingredients that can throw your hormones off balance and potentially lead to more serious health issues down the road.
Did you know that a recent study found 37% of commercial soaps were actually toxic to the main cells in our skin's outer layer? The very products meant to clean our skin can damage its protective barrier, leading to dryness and irritation. But here's the good news: switching to non-toxic, organic body soap can be a game-changer for your skin and overall well-being. Here's why we're head over heels for these natural alternatives:
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Happy, Healthy Skin: Free from harsh chemicals, organic body soap treats your skin with kid gloves, reducing irritation and leaving it softer than ever.
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Earth-Friendly Clean: These soaps are often biodegradable, letting you pamper yourself without hurting the planet.
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Hormonal Harmony: By ditching synthetic additives, organic body soap help keep your body's natural rhythms in tune.
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Nutrient Boost: Packed with natural oils and plant goodness, these soaps nourish your skin with vitamins and antioxidants.
Ready to make the switch? We've scoured the clean beauty world to find the crème de la crème of natural soaps: these nontoxic and organic soap gems have earned a special place in our bathroom
The Best Non Toxic Soap Brands
"Best"
Dr. Bronner's Pure-Castile | Shop here*
Chagrin Valley | Shop here*
Dr. Bronner's Castile Baby | Shop here*
Moon Valley | Shop here*
Earth Mama | Shop here*
"Better"
100% Pure | Shop here*
Canary | Shop here*
Aspen Kay Naturals | Shop here*
Bee the Light | Shop here*
Crate 61 | Shop here*
Sweet Harvest Farms | Shop here*
Meliora | Shop here*
Fontana | Shop here*
How Do We Choose the Best Organic and Non Toxic Soaps?
Water and soap are our best friends, helping us stay clean and fresh. But not all soaps are created equal, which is why we've become a bit obsessed with finding the best ones for you and your family.
"Best" vs "Better"
We've divided our favorites into two groups: the "Best" (our absolute top picks) and the "Better" (still fantastic, but with a slight twist)"—based on their ingredients and overall safety.
"Best" products are our top picks for organic soaps on the market. Packed with the safest and most effective natural ingredients, they ensure minimal exposure to harmful chemicals. These soaps are made with premium organic ingredients and often have some of the most respected non-toxic certifications, such as Made Safe and EWG.
"Better" Don't let the name fool you - these soaps are still amazing! These natural soaps are still excellent non-toxic options but might not fully meet the criteria for the "Best" category. They either do not claim to be organic but have notable non-toxic certifications or claim to be organic but lack formal certifications, often because they are produced by small-scale soap makers in small batches.
What Are the "Best" Non Toxic Soaps?
Dr. Bronner's Almond Castille Soap* (Best Natural Soap - Our Top Pick)
Best For: Everyday
Type: Liquid Concentrate
Pricing: $34.58
Certifications: USDA, Fair Trade, OTCO, Leaping Bunny, Certified Vegan
Key Nontoxic Ingredients: Organic coconut oil, Organic palm kernel oil, Olive oil, Peppermint essential oil
Why We Like It: This natural liquid soap is a must-have for its amazing versatility and gentle formula. I've used it for everything from a gentle face wash to a refreshing body cleanser, and even as an effective kitchen cleaner. The magic lies in its all-natural, non-toxic formula - a blend of organic coconut, olive, and hemp oils that leaves our skin feeling beautifully soft and clean without a hint of irritation.
The heavenly scent (I'm partial to the peppermint) turns every wash into a mini spa moment. It's incredibly concentrated, so a little goes a long way, making it budget-friendly too. Plus, Dr. Bronner's commitment to sustainability, with 100% post-consumer recycled packaging and support for organic farming, makes us feel good about every use.
Image @ Dr. Bronners
Chagrin Valley Soap & Salve Sea Buckthorn*
Best For: Sensitive skin
Type: Bar
Pricing: $14.95
Certifications: Leaping Bunny, OEFFA
Key Organic Ingredients: Organic Virgin Sea Buckthorn Oil, Organic Licorice Root, Organic Turmeric
Why We Like It: This organic bar soap is a standout in our skincare routine. Its gentle formula works wonders, calming inflamed skin and leaving it irresistibly soft and smooth. I've seen transformative results, especially in managing my daughter's eczema and acne. Pure essential oils of lavender, tea tree and rosemary give this soap a refreshing, herbal scent while providing natural antibacterial and soothing properties. We also appreciate Chagrin Valley's dedication to sustainability and community support, including their generous donations to local charities and environmental initiatives.
Image @ Chargin Valley
Dr. Bronners Castile Baby Unscented Bar Soap*
Best For: Baby
Type: Bar
Pricing: $14.99
Certifications: USDA, Fair Trade, OTCO, Leaping Bunny, Certified Vegan
Key Nontoxic Ingredients: Organic coconut oil, Organic palm oil, Sodium hydroxide
Why We Like It: This natural bar soap is a must-have for your nightly routine. It's especially good for those of us with skin sensitivities. Crafted with love and organic oils, this gentle bar soap is our family's secret weapon. It cleanses our little ones' delicate skin without a trace of harsh chemicals, leaving them squeaky clean and oh-so-soft. What stands out is Dr. Bronner's commitment to sustainability, using 100% post-consumer recycled packaging and promoting regenerative farming.
Image @ Dr. Bronners
Moon Valley Organics Oatmeal Sage*
Best For: Versatile Skin Savior: from eczema-prone to oily skin
Type: Bar
Pricing: $6.99
Certifications: USDA, Leaping Bunny
Key Nontoxic Ingredients: Organic safflower oil, Organic sustainable palm oils, Organic Oat Powder, Organic Beeswax, Organic Sage Essential Oil
Why We Like It: Using Moon Valley Organics Sage Organic Bar Soap can truly elevate your skincare routine. We’ve found it perfect for managing tricky skin conditions like eczema and oily T-zones, making it a versatile addition to our daily regimen. The gentle exfoliation from oatmeal and sage leaves skin refreshed and residue-free. As clean beauty enthusiasts, we appreciate its organic certification and lack of artificial fragrances. Plus, Moon Valley's commitment to sustainability makes us feel good about every wash. It's a brand we're proud to support and heartily recommend!
Image @ Moon Valley
Earth Mama Ginger Fresh Body Wash*
Best For: Pregnancy
Type: Body Wash
Pricing: $34.99
Certifications: OTCO, EWG, USDA, Leaping Bunny, NSF
Key Non Toxic Ingredients: Organic Coconut oil, Vegetable glycerin, Ginger root oil, Organic Calendula Flower Extract
Why We Like It: This Castile Body Soap is our body wash superhero. It leaves our skin soft and moisturized without any irritation—ideal for hypersensitive skin and safe to use during pregnancy. The zingy ginger-grapefruit scent is a mood-lifter, without being overpowering. We're impressed by how far a little goes - it foams up beautifully for a luxurious clean. Knowing it's non-toxic gives us peace of mind, especially when using it on our kids. Earth Mama’s commitment to sustainability is impressive, with carbon-neutral shipping and support for important causes like the Breast Cancer Prevention Partners and the Safer Beauty Bill Package.
Image @ Earth Mama
What Are the "Better" Organic Soaps?
Canary Hand Soap Starter Kit*
Best For: Starter Kit, Best for Eco-conscious households and sensitive noses
Type: Liquid
Pricing: $29.95
Certifications: Leaping Bunny
Key Non Toxic Ingredients: Organic coconut oil, Organic sunflower oil, Organic Castor Oil, Vitamin E
Why We Like It: Canary Clean Co.'s Hand Soap Starter Kit is a game-changer! The pre-cut natural nontoxic soap bars dissolve quickly in warm water, making refills super easy and saving us from hauling heavy bottles. This kit includes a refillable glass bottle and a reusable plastic pump.
What truly wins us over is the eco-friendly mission. By eliminating plastic waste, we feel good about every wash. While some find it slightly drying, most of us can't get enough of its clean, refreshing feel. From easy prep to lovely scent, this soap has earned its place at every sink.
Image @ Canary
Aspen Kay Naturals Aloe Vera & Calendula*
Best For: Shaving
Type: Soap Bar
Pricing: $9.47
Certifications: N/A
Key Organic Ingredients: Organic sustainable palm oil, Organic unrefined shea butter, Organic Coconut oil
Why We Like It: This natural shaving soap bar has quickly become a shower essential. Shaving with this non toxic soap is a breeze, providing a silky glide we love. What we love most is how it leaves the skin feeling soft, clean, and moisturized. Even though the lather feels firm, the result is smoother, healthier skin. Plus, the bar lasts a long time, especially when kept dry between uses, making it a great value. Aspen Kay Naturals’ commitment to ethical practices and non-toxic ingredients gives us peace of mind. This best natural bar soap for shaving has become a trusted part of our routine, delivering quality and care with every use.
Image @ Aspen Kay
Bee the Light Simple Man Soap* with Organic & Fair Trade Essential Oils
Best For: Men
Type: Soap Bar
Pricing: $49.99
Certifications: Fair Trade
Key Non Toxic Ingredients: Organic sugar and oats, Activated charcoal, Non-GMO citric acid
Why We Like It: Bee the Light’s Simple Man Soap pleasantly surprised us with its quality and longevity. Despite their smaller size, these bars last impressively long—one has been going strong for over a month. The non toxic natural ingredients and rich, earthy scents make every shower feel refreshing and luxurious. But what truly sets this soap apart is the heartwarming mission behind it. Bee the Light supports orphans and refugees, which adds a special meaning to every purchase. Plus, the eco-friendly packaging is the cherry on top for this adventure-ready essential.
Image @ Bee the Light
Crate 61 Cold Process Natural Bar Soap*
Best For: Vegans
Type: Soap Bar
Pricing: $20.65
Certifications: IAS, Paperboard Packaging Recyclable, Leaping Bunny
Key Non Toxic Ingredients: Not listed
Why We Like It: Crate 61's Dry Skin natural soap bar has been a wonderful find for our team, especially for those with skin sensitivities. The packaging is both beautiful and eco-friendly, making it a joy to unwrap. We love how the thick, creamy lather provides deep moisture, leaving our skin smooth and irritation-free. The scents are subtle yet refreshing, and the soap rinses clean without leaving any residue. Even better, the bar soaps last longer than expected, making this a great value for high-quality, natural skincare.
Image @ Crate 61
Sweet Harvest Farms Sample Soap Pack*
Best For: Handmade
Type: Soap Bar
Pricing: $14
Certifications: No certifications, just claims that they use organic oils and herbs, etc.
Key Non Toxic Ingredients: Organic shea butter oil, Organic coconut oil, Organic sustainable palm oil
Why We Like It: Discovering Sweet Harvest Farms was an upgrade to our lives for sure! From the first use, we felt how soft and hydrated our skin became, thanks to the glycerin that’s often missing in commercial soaps. The cold process method ensures all the nourishing ingredients stay intact. These non toxic bar soaps aren’t just effective—they’re also stunning to look at. These beautiful handmade bar soaps comes with three end pieces from their soap loaves, each unique and wrapped in rustic twine or ribbon, making them perfect for gifts or adding a touch of charm to your bathroom!
Shop Sweet Harvest Farms here*
Image @ Sweet Harvest Farms
100% Pure Coconut Butter Soap*
Best For: Dry skin
Type: Bar
Pricing: $15
Certifications: Green Business, Leaping Bunny
Key Non Toxic Ingredients: Shea butter, Avocado butter, Rosehip seed oil
Why We Like It: 100% Pure Coconut Butter Soap is a game-changer for dry, sensitive skin. This non toxic soap is gentle, soft, and moisturizing, making it perfect for dry skin. The gentle, natural scent adds to the soothing experience, making this soap a perfect choice for anyone looking to nourish their skin without irritation. We love that it's made with organic non-toxic ingredients and comes in recyclable packaging, reflecting 100% Pure's commitment to sustainability.
Image @ 100 % Pure
Meliora Bath & Body Soap*
Best For: Body Bar
Type: Soap Bar
Pricing: $8.49
Certifications: MadeSafe
Key Non Toxic Ingredients: Organic coconut oil, Organic sunflower oil, Organic Lavender Essential Oil
Why We Like It: Meliora's Soap Bar is a favorite for its refreshing natural scents like Lemon, Lavender, Peppermint, and Tea Tree. Made from non-toxic, skin-friendly ingredients, it’s perfect for the whole family, even the little ones. The soap's clean formula ensures it’s gentle yet effective, leaving skin feeling fresh without over-drying. Plus, it comes in minimal, recyclable packaging, and the brand's commitment to fair wages and ethical practices at their Chicago factory makes this soap even more special.
Image @ Meliora
Fontana Essentials Bar Soap*
Best For: Moisturizing
Type: Bar
Pricing: $22.97
Certifications: MadeSafe, Leaping Bunny
Key Non Toxic Ingredients: Sodium cocoate, Lavender oil, Sodium citrate
Why We Like It: Using Fontana's Lavender Soap Bar is like a mini escape to a serene garden. We love how this soap lathers beautifully and leaves our skin soft and hydrated, even smoothing out those little bumps on the back of our arms. Plus, Fontana’s dedication to supporting cancer survivors and their commitment to sustainability makes us feel even better about choosing their products.
Image @ Fontana
These were our picks for the best natural soaps. Each one offers a unique blend of nourishing nontoxic ingredients and eco-friendly practices that align perfectly with a healthier, more mindful lifestyle.
While natural soaps provide a wonderful array of benefits through their nourishing, non-toxic ingredients and eco-friendly practices, it's important to understand the limitations of labeling soaps as "organic."
Why Organic Soaps Aren't Really Organic?
No soap can truly be organic because they all contain caustic substances like sodium hydroxide or potassium hydroxide, which are inorganic compounds.
The FDA requires that over 95% of a product's ingredients must be organic to be labeled as organic. This applies to self-care products like lotions, deodorants, and shampoos. However, no soap can meet this standard because 20% of its composition must be either sodium hydroxide or potassium hydroxide.
Then what does it mean if a soap is certified organic?
When a soap is certified organic, it means that some or all of the other ingredients, except for the sodium hydroxide or potassium hydroxide, are organic.
These other components meet strict organic standards, ensuring the soap's ingredients are free from synthetic chemicals and pesticides.
What are natural soaps?
Natural soaps are made from plant and mineral ingredients without synthetic additives or chemicals. They usually contain natural oils, butter, and essential oils, creating a gentle, environmentally friendly product.
What soap has the least amount of chemicals?
The soap with the least amount of chemicals is organic soap, made mainly from plant-based ingredients and natural oils. These soaps avoid synthetic additives, focusing on organic and environmentally friendly components.
"Organic" Soaps Are Still Better Than Conventional Soaps
When it comes to soap, "organic" is a pledge to better skin health and a cleaner planet. Picking organic soaps over conventional ones benefits ourselves and the environment.
Harmful Ingredients to Avoid
Keep these in mind when checking ingredient labels and make sure they aren't listed!
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Parabens
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Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS)
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Phthalates
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Triclosan
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Formaldehyde
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Polyethylene Glycol (PEGs)
Buying Guide for Organic Body Soap
Choosing organic soaps means understanding the ingredients and brand commitments to ensure you get a safe, high-quality product.
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Organic Oils and Butters: Look for natural oils like coconut, olive, and shea butter. These ingredients nourish and moisturize your skin.
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Avoid Harmful Chemicals: Steer clear of parabens, sulfates (SLS), phthalates, triclosan, and synthetic fragrance. These can cause skin irritation and other health issues.
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Consider Your Skin Type and Needs
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Sensitive Skin: Choose soaps with gentle, soothing ingredients like calendula, chamomile, and aloe vera.
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Dry Skin: Opt for soaps with high moisturizing content like shea butter, avocado butter, and coconut oil.
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Oily or Acne-Prone Skin: Look for soaps with tea tree oil, charcoal, or sea buckthorn oil to help balance and cleanse the skin and remove dead skin cells.
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Assess Brand Commitments
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Sustainability: Check if the brand uses biodegradable ingredients and eco-friendly packaging. Brands committed to reducing plastic waste and supporting environmental initiatives are preferable.
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Community Support: Brands that give back to the community or support charitable causes align with ethical consumer values.
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Understand the "Organic" Conundrum
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Soap Composition: No soap can be entirely organic due to the presence of sodium hydroxide or potassium hydroxide. However, soaps can still be labeled organic if their other ingredients meet organic standards.
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Natural vs. Organic: Natural soaps are made without synthetic additives but may not be fully organic. Organic soaps are made with ingredients grown without pesticides or synthetic fertilizers.
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Read Reviews and Testimonies
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Customer Feedback: Look for reviews from users with similar skin types and concerns. Positive experiences and consistent quality are good indicators of a reliable product.
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Try Samples: Some brands offer sample packs. Trying liquid or bar soap can help you find the best match for your skin.
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Certifications
Certifications are crucial for ensuring that your organic body soap meets high standards of safety, sustainability, and ethical practices. Here are some key clean beauty certifications to look for:
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USDA Organic: Indicates that the soap’s ingredients are mostly organic and free from synthetic chemicals and pesticides.
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Leaping Bunny: Confirms that the product is cruelty-free and not tested on animals.
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Made Safe: Ensures that the product is free from harmful chemicals and safe for human use.
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Fair Trade: Guarantees that ingredients are sourced ethically, providing fair wages and working conditions for farmers and workers.
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EWG Verified: Indicates that the product meets the Environmental Working Group’s strict standards for health and transparency.
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NSF/ANSI 305: Certifies that the product contains at least 70% organic ingredients and meets specific safety and quality standards.
Key Takeaways:
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All soaps contain inorganic compounds like sodium hydroxide or potassium hydroxide, therefore cannot legally meet the FDA's 95% organic ingredient requirement to be called "Organic"
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Organic soaps are free from harmful chemicals like phthalates and triclosan, which promotes healthier skin and reduces the risk of irritation and allergies.
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Non-toxic soaps often contain nutrient-rich natural oils and plant-based ingredients that provide essential nutrients and antioxidants, nourishing and enhancing skin health.
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Certifications such as USDA Organic, Leaping Bunny, Made Safe, and Fair Trade ensure these products meet high standards for safety, sustainability, and ethical practices.
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Switch to non-toxic soaps with organic ingredients to enjoy healthier skin, support the environment, and avoid exposure to harmful chemicals.
If you enjoyed this post, check out these other articles on safe and non-toxic products:
FAQs
What are the healthiest soaps to use?
The healthiest soaps to use are organic soaps free from harmful chemicals like phthalates and triclosan, and rich in natural oils and plant-based ingredients.
What is the most natural bar of soap?
The most natural bar of soap is made with minimal processing and contains pure, plant-based ingredients without synthetic additives or chemicals.
Is organic soap better for you?
Yes, organic body soap is better for you as it avoids harmful chemicals, reducing the risk of skin irritation and allergies while nourishing the skin with natural ingredients.
What soap do most dermatologists recommend?
Most dermatologists recommend gentle, fragrance-free soaps with minimal ingredients, often advising hypoallergenic options for sensitive skin.
Is natural soap chemical-free?
Natural soap is not entirely chemical-free as it contains naturally occurring chemicals from plant-based ingredients, but it avoids synthetic additives and harmful chemicals.
Is organic soap better for your skin?
Yes, organic body soap is better for your skin as it uses non-toxic, natural ingredients that nourish and protect the skin without causing irritation or allergies.
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Lauren Eaton
