What is the difference between soft soap and bar soap?

In today's post, we will take a closer look at an interesting aspect of soft soap production: the difference between authentic hard soap and soft soap. There is some confusion surrounding these terms and their use, so let's explore this subject to clarify the differences and understand why they matter.

 

 

 

Last edited on May 22, 2024

 

 

 

 

To make authentic hard soap, sodium hydroxide is used, while potassium hydroxide produces a softer soap = soft soap. Authentic liquid soap has an ingredients list with INCI names such as Potassium olivate (saponified olive oil), Potassium-xxx, etc. This means that the soap consists of fatty acid salts saponified with potassium hydroxide (potassium hydroxide) and an oil. Potassium hydroxide creates soft soap crystals. Authentic soft soap, such as linseed oil soap and Soapa, is an authentic liquid soap/soft soap = fatty acid salts from potassium hydroxide. Only in the Nordic countries do we have a separate word for soft soap; in other countries it is called, for example, cleaning soap and liquid soap, so linguistically no distinction is made between soft soap and soap.

We received the latest real reminder of the importance of hygiene during the coronavirus pandemic, when the media gave us daily information about the importance of washing our hands and using soap and water.

 

 

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1. What is used to make authentic hard soap, and what produces a softer soap?

Authentic hard soap is made with sodium hydroxide, while potassium hydroxide produces a softer soap called soft soap.

 

2. Which ingredients are found in authentic liquid soaps, and what is their origin?

Authentic liquid soaps contain fatty acid salts from potassium hydroxide and oil, which combine to create the soap's consistency and cleaning properties.