Bar soap is better than liquid soap because it reduces plastic waste, lasts 5 - 6 times longer, contains fewer fillers, and has a 25% lower environmental impact. It’s also more cost-effective and often made with simpler, more natural ingredients.

Why everyone is switching back to bar soap

When I first started Go For Zero, I wasn’t trying to change everything overnight. I just wanted to make simple swaps that actually made a difference.

Switching from liquid soap to bar soap is one of the simplest “bar soap vs liquid soap” swaps you can make.

I know what you’re thinking… “Ellie, it’s just soap.” But once you look a little closer, it’s one of those rare changes that ticks every box. It’s better for the planet, better for your wallet, and often gentler on your skin too.

1. It cuts out plastic (without trying too hard)

Most liquid soaps come in plastic bottles. And while some are technically "recyclable", we all know that doesn’t always mean they actually get recycled.

Bar soap quietly solves that problem.

Most bars are either packaging-free or wrapped in paper or cardboard that can be recycled or composted. It’s one of the simplest ways to reduce plastic in your daily routine, without having to overhaul your life.

2. You’re not paying for water

This one really surprised me when I first learned it.

Some studies estimate liquid soap can contain up to 90-95% water. Which means… you’re mostly paying for water (and the packaging around it).

Bar soap is different. It’s concentrated, so what you’re buying is actually the product itself. It sounds small, but over time it makes a big difference.

3. It lasts longer (a lot longer)

One bar of soap can last up to five to 6  times longer than a bottle of liquid soap. Which means fewer trips to restock, less packaging, and more value for your money.

It’s one of those swaps where you genuinely notice the difference pretty quickly.

4. It has a lower impact than you’d think

This is something we don’t always think about.

Liquid soap is bulky and heavy (because of all that water), which means more fuel is needed to transport it.

• According to a Swiss study conducted at the Institute of Environmental Engineering, liquid soap requires 5 times more energy for raw material production and nearly20 times more energy for packaging than bar soap

Bar soap is lighter, smaller, and easier to ship. It’s a quieter impact, but it still counts.

5. It’s often simpler (in a good way)

Liquid soaps usually need extra ingredients to keep everything stable, smooth, and shelf-ready.

Bar soaps, especially natural ones, can be made much more simply. Fewer fillers, fewer unnecessary extras… just ingredients that actually do the job.

6. It can replace more than you think

This is one of my favourite parts.

A single bar can often do more than one job. We’ve got bars that work as shampoo & conditioner, or even as dish & laundry soap.

It simplifies everything. Fewer bottles, less clutter, less decision fatigue.

7. It’s a small swap that actually sticks

Some sustainable swaps feel hard to maintain. This one doesn’t.

Bar soap is easy, affordable, and fits straight into your routine. And once you get used to it, you really don’t miss liquid soap at all.

What about dry or sensitive skin?

I get this question a lot. A lot of us grew up using soaps that left our skin feeling tight or dry, so it’s a fair concern.

But the truth is, not all bar soaps are the same.

Some commercial bars can be harsh, especially the ones made with synthetic detergents. But well-formulated, natural bars are completely different. They work with your skin, not against it.

At Go For Zero, we focus on gentle, nourishing ingredients and avoid harsh chemicals or synthetic fragrances. They’re closer to your skin’s natural pH and feel incredibly soft on the skin.

How to make your bar last even longer

A little care goes a long way here.

Letting your soap dry between uses makes a huge difference. A well-draining soap holder helps more than you’d think. And if you want to stretch it even further, cutting your bar in half and rotating pieces works really well.

It’s not complicated. They’re just small habits that help your bar go the distance.

Ready to make the switch?

Bar soap is one of those swaps that just makes sense. You reduce plastic, save money and simplify your routine.

And once you switch… You really don’t go back.

If you’re looking for bar soap that actually works (and feels amazing to use), we’ve got you covered.

From our natural face, body wash, and shampoo & conditioner bars to our popular stain remover stick and dish & laundry bar, we have everything you need!

Start with one swap. That’s all it takes. You'll see you love it!

Ellie x

FAQs Bar Soap vs Liquid Soap

Is bar soap better than liquid soap?

Yes, bar soap is generally better than liquid soap because it reduces plastic waste, lasts longer, and contains fewer fillers. It’s also more cost-effective over time.

Why is bar soap more sustainable?

Bar soap typically comes without plastic packaging and requires less energy to transport, making it a more environmentally friendly option.

Does bar soap last longer than liquid soap?

Yes. A single bar of soap can last up to four or five times longer than liquid soap, especially when stored properly between uses.

Is bar soap hygienic?

Yes. Studies have shown that bar soap is safe to use and does not transfer harmful bacteria during normal use.

Is bar soap better for sensitive skin?

It can be. Natural or soap-free bars are often gentler and closer to your skin’s natural pH than many liquid soaps.

Resources

• Koehler, A., & Wildbolz, C. (2009). Comparing the Environmental Footprints of Home-Care and Personal-Hygiene Products: The Role of Different Life Cycle Stages.
• ESU-services (2015). A LCA case study of hand washing with liquid and bar soap.
• https://www.mdpi.com/2071-1050/15/18/13286#