What is the difference between natural soap and commercial soaps found in stores?

“Soap is made commercially in huge vats by a process called “continuous method”, in which ingredients are continuously added to one end and removed from the other. During this process, the emollient glycerin that naturally exists in soap is removed and sold separately for its moisturizing qualities. Commercial soap is nearly always made from tallow (animal fat) and usually contains a variety of synthetic chemicals. Because of the lack of glycerin as well as the inclusion of poor-quality ingredients and additives, commercial soap can often irritate and dry the skin, or can cause an allergic reaction. Sadly, even many hand-made soap companies use synthetic fragrances, preservatives and colors in their products.” (Handmade Soap by Tatyana Hill)

 

Do you ever test on animals?

No way! We only test on willing friends, family and other volunteers excited to try out new products!

 

Will the soap I receive look exactly like the soap appears on the web site?

Our full-size soap bars are cut at between 5.3 – 5.7oz but as they dry the bars will lose a few ounces of water weight – our bars weigh a minimum of 4.5oz. Dimensions for our full-size soap bars are approximately 3.25” tall x 3.25” wide x 1” deep.

Each flavor of soap is handcrafted in small batches, hand cut and cured by us. As a result, the size, design, shape and weight may vary slightly but that is part of the soap’s character and charm.

 

What should I do to make my soap last longer?

Let your soap dry out between uses. A ‘proper’ soap dish will either raise the bar up for air to circulate from beneath, or contain air holes for drainage of water below the soap.

 

What is the shelf life for your soap?

Our products contain no preservatives or shelf stabilizers so we recommend that you use any soaps within one year of purchase. The essential oils used in the soaps will infuse the air around it and fade over time so for optimal enjoyment please use within 6 months of purchase. Store products in a cool, dry place and avoid exposure to direct sunlight until you are ready to use.

 

I have sensitive skin and can’t use most soaps. Will I be able to use yours?

There are many reasons people may have reactions to soaps or other body care products.  Many commercial products are detergent based, full of synthetic ingredients like artificial colorants, hardeners, latherers and preservatives – any of which can be a culprit for irritation.  We pride ourselves on creating products that are mild, gentle and truly natural – we only use essential oils for our scents, and herbs, flowers, spices and clays for our colors. However, we still request that customers review the ingredients in each product prior to purchase/use for possible allergens or sensitivities. In particular, many of the base ingredients contain butters derived from nuts. Some products contain essential oils that should be avoided while pregnant. We recommend testing a small amount of any product on an inconspicuous area before using it on a regular basis. If any irritation occurs, discontinue use.

 

I’m allergic to fragrance – how do you create scents in your products?

Some of our products may have added essential oils which provide subtle scents but our products will never contain the word, “fragrance.” Whenever you see “fragrance” in the ingredient list of a product you know that chemical-laden scents have been added.

 

How will my order be shipped?

We ship UPS Ground, USPS Parcel Post or USPS Priority Mail – our goal is to find the lowest cost carrier for each order but we charge a flat rate of $7 to you our customer. Other shipping/delivery options are available upon request. Shipping charges are applied to each order and are the responsibility of the buyer.

 

When will my order be shipped?

We typically ship individual customer orders within 3 business days – however, customized orders, unusually large orders or orders placed during holidays may take longer to process.  (Wholesale customer orders typically take 2-4 weeks).

 

My order was damaged in shipping. What should I do?

Please inspect your products carefully upon receipt.  If it appears a product was damaged during shipping/transit please save all packaging materials and contact both the shipping carrier and Square One Soapworks, LLC immediately for further instruction.

 

Do you accept custom orders?

We do!  Please contact us via email with an outline of your request and date items are needed so we can discuss further.  As a reminder we only use natural colorants so some colors may not be feasible for us to achieve.  Also, please note that for custom designed items, we require a minimum of 2-3 weeks and may have minimum/maximum limits on product and scent availability.

 

Do you sell wholesale?

Yes! Please contact us via email so that we can discuss it further.  Please note that we will need your state tax ID number for wholesale orders.

 

Do you accept exchanges or returns?

Unfortunately, for sanitary reasons we are unable to accept exchanges or returns. We are more than happy to answer any questions or make recommendations prior to placing an order.  We strive to offer exceptional customer services so if for any reason you are unhappy with your purchase please contact us immediately.

Please don’t hesitate to contact us with any questions, comments or feedback!

 

Disclaimer: The statements presented on this site have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The products offered on this web site are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.