Soap may seem like a small everyday choice, but when you multiply it by billions of households worldwide, the environmental impact adds up quickly. From bar soap to liquid handwash, each option has pros and cons - but which is the most sustainable?

Let’s break down the differences between bar soap, bottled liquid soap, and refillable handwash systems so you can make an informed, eco-friendly choice.

Bar Soap: The Old Classic

Pros:

• Typically lower carbon footprint than bottled soap.

• Often sold in cardboard packaging (easy to recycle or compost).

• Lasts longer if stored properly.

Cons:

• Less hygienic in shared spaces (bacteria can live on the surface).

• Some brands still use palm oil or plastic wrapping.

• Can dry out skin if not formulated with moisturisers.

Bottled Liquid Handwash: The Plastic Problem

Pros:

• Convenient and widely available.

• Easy to dispense and hygienic in shared bathrooms.

Cons:

• Comes in single-use plastic bottles - billions are discarded every year.

• Heavy to transport (90 - 95% water), creating higher carbon emissions.

• Rarely recyclable due to mixed plastic pump tops.

👉 Want to learn more about the environmental cost of liquid soap? Read: The Hidden Carbon Footprint of Liquid Soap (and How Refills Change the Game).

Refillable Handwash Refills: The Sustainable Solution

Pros:

• Plastic-free sachets eliminate single-use bottles.

• 95% lighter than bottled soap → lower shipping emissions.

• Durable reusable dispensers (glass, PET or aluminium) look stylish and last for years.

• Gentle, vegan formulations that are good for sensitive skin.

Cons:

• Slightly higher upfront cost (starter kit with dispenser).

• Requires a little effort to mix (though it’s quick and fun).

👉 Explore options here: Blackmarket’s eco-friendly handwash refills.

So, Which Is Most Sustainable?

• Best for minimal packaging: Bar soap.

• Best for hygiene & practicality: Refillable handwash.

• Worst option overall: Single-use bottled liquid handwash.

When you balance eco impact, hygiene, and practicality, refillable handwash refills come out on top. They’re the modern solution that combines the low footprint of bar soap with the convenience of liquid handwash.

Conclusion

Every wash counts. Choosing a more sustainable soap option—especially one that avoids single-use plastic—can have a huge impact over time.

Ready to make the switch? Discover Blackmarket’s refillable handwash starter sets and join the movement toward a cleaner, greener bathroom routine.

👉 If you’re looking for a gift that’s eco-friendly and practical, check out: 5 Sustainable Home Gift Ideas Under £25.