The Truth About Bar Soap vs. Body Wash (Plus the Best Toxic-Free Alternatives)

We’re debating the differences between bar soap and body wash and sharing the best toxic-free products.

We’re discussing the difference between bar soap vs. body wash and which are the best toxic-free brands to use! Or should you go soap-free?

After sharing the best natural skin care products, it led our team to a debate about what we use when we shower. Here’s everything we know about bar soap vs. body wash and whether or not you may want to consider going soap-free.

Are you following our Clean Series? Head over to our clean natural products post to discover more toxic-free swaps!

Is bar soap better than body wash?

While bar soap and body wash serve the same basic purpose, there are important differences that make bar soap a better choice for both your skin and the environment. Because liquid soaps contain water, they require preservatives to prevent the growth of mold, yeast, and bacteria. These preservatives extend shelf life but can also contribute to skin irritation and potential health concerns, depending on the formulation.

Bar soaps, on the other hand, don’t require preservatives and are often made with simpler, cleaner ingredients. They’re also more concentrated, meaning a single bar typically lasts 2–3 times longer than liquid soap. With fewer additives and minimal packaging, bar soaps are generally more eco-friendly, travel-friendly, and, depending on the brand, can offer nourishing botanicals and skin-supportive benefits.

Check out what our team had to say about bar soap vs. body wash:

The majority of our team uses both bar soap and body wash, and the smallest percentage of team members use bar soap. Are the majority of us washing wrong? 🤔

The good news is that there’s really no right or wrong way of washing…as long as you’re following proper body hygiene. 😉 However, it’s important to note that not all bar soaps are treated equally.

Is there such a thing as a soap-free body wash?

You may have heard of “soap-free” cleansers before. Both soap and soap-free options are designed to remove dirt and debris, but traditional soap can strip the skin more than necessary. Because of this, soap-free cleansers can be especially beneficial for sensitive skin, and may be an option you haven’t considered before.

Traditional soap is made through saponification, where fats or oils react with an alkali (like sodium hydroxide) to create soap and glycerin. Soap-free cleansers instead use synthetic or plant-based surfactants rather than saponified fats, though some still include plant oils or fatty ingredients as emollients. While they don’t rely on saponified fats, soap-free cleansers can provide humectants that help support a healthier skin pH balance and naturally hydrated skin. Just remember: “soap-free” doesn’t mean “chemical-free,” so always check ingredient labels before buying.

The biggest takeaway here? Fewer suds can equal a better skin barrier if you’re using the right product.

Below are our top 3 toxic-free bar soap, liquid soap, & soap-free cleanser recommendations if you’re looking to make a cleaner switch:

1. Best Bar Soap: Dr. Bronner’s All-One Hemp Pure-Castile Bar Soap

If you’re not sourcing from a local soap maker, Dr. Bronner’s bar soap is one of the most accessible and reliable toxic-free swaps out there. Unlike liquid body washes, this bar skips unnecessary additives and features a short, intentional ingredient list that supports both skin health and sustainability. It’s gentle enough for daily use, works well across all ages and skin types, and even doubles as a shaving soap thanks to its creamy lather. With options for unscented or naturally scented bars, it’s an easy, low-waste choice that aligns with a truly clean routine.

2. Best Body Wash: Dr. Bronner’s Castile Soap

Dr. Bronner’s liquid soap stands out as a body wash because it’s designed to do far more than cleanse your skin. Its highly concentrated formula means a little goes a long way when diluted, making it a practical and budget-friendly swap for multiple household products. Made with responsibly sourced ingredients and produced with sustainability in mind, this soap supports both personal health and environmental impact. While it does contain preservatives, they’re thoughtfully chosen and considered safe, which helps maintain product integrity without compromising clean standards.

3. Best Soap-Free Cleanser: Primally Pure Plumping Bar

Primally Pure’s Plumping Bar is an ultra-gentle alternative to traditional soap, designed to cleanse without disrupting the skin’s natural barrier or microbiome. Its thoughtfully minimal formula supports healthy skin function while helping improve texture and overall resilience, making it especially appealing for sensitive or reactive skin types. Every bar is crafted with purpose, using high-quality ingredients and a hands-on production process that reflects the brand’s commitment to skin health over shortcuts. And while it’s a splurge, Primally Pure also offers a beautiful line of soap-free body washes made with the same skin-first philosophy, giving you a liquid option without compromising your standards.

Make more toxin-free swaps from our Clean Series.