Bar Soap vs. Body Wash: Why the Bar Wins for the Planet
If you're searching for sustainable bar soap in Indianapolis or looking to shop eco-friendly skincare near Avon, Indiana, you're in the right place.
At The Clean Chemist, we handcraft small-batch soap using clean, science-backed ingredients — right here in central Indiana. While both bar soap and body wash can get you clean, one clearly outshines the other when it comes to sustainability — and science backs it up.
At The Clean Chemist, we believe good skincare shouldn't come at the cost of the environment. While both bar soap and body wash can get you clean, one clearly outshines the other when it comes to sustainability — and science backs it up.
📊 The Study: Bar Soap Has a Lower Carbon Footprint
A 2009 study from ETH Zurich (featured in The Washington Post) crunched the numbers: bar soap has a 33% lower greenhouse gas impact compared to liquid body wash. That’s a big deal for such a simple switch.
Why the difference?
Water weight: Liquid soap is up to 80% water — which means heavier shipping and more energy use.
Packaging waste: Most body wash comes in plastic bottles. Bar soap typically uses minimal or compostable packaging.
Ingredient load: Liquid soaps often include petroleum based synthetic surfactants and preservatives, which take more resources to manufacture and may be harder on water systems after use.
♻️ Small Change, Big Impact
Choosing bar soap over body wash may seem like a minor switch — but it packs a powerful environmental punch. Here's why:
Less plastic waste: Bar soaps are usually packaged in recyclable or compostable paperboard. Body washes typically come in single-use plastic bottles that are rarely recycled.
Lower transportation emissions: Liquid body wash is mostly water, making it heavier to ship. Bar soap is compact and lightweight, which reduces the carbon footprint of transport. We also source ingredients locally as often as possible, further decreasing transportation emissions.
Fewer synthetic additives: Liquid soaps often rely on petroleum based synthetic preservatives and surfactants. Our cold process bars use simple, skin-friendly ingredients and produce less chemical runoff.
Longer-lasting product: When used and stored properly, bar soap lasts longer than liquid body wash — meaning less frequent repurchasing and less packaging over time.
At The Clean Chemist, we take that a step further by making small-batch bars with sustainable ingredients, conflict-free oils, and eco-friendly packaging. Our soaps are made to be kind to your skin — and the Earth.
🌱 Locally Made, Environmentally Friendly
As a woman-owned soap company in Avon, Indiana, The Clean Chemist is proud to craft every bar by hand using responsibly sourced ingredients and sustainable practices. Our mission: deliver clean chemistry and radiant skin — while reducing environmental impact across Indiana and beyond.
Whether you're shopping for:
Eco-friendly soap near Indianapolis
Plastic-free skincare in Avon, Indiana
Or just want a bar that’s better for the planet
We’ve got you covered.
🌍 The Clean Choice
Choosing a bar over a bottle might feel small, but science shows it adds up. Whether you're switching for the planet, your skin, or both, bar soap is a smarter, cleaner choice.
Because clean chemistry means radiant skin — and a healthier planet.
Want to make the switch?
Shop our handcrafted bar soaps online or find us at markets and events near Indianapolis and Avon like the Pittsboro Farmer’s Market. Want to try a variety? Our zero-waste soap saver pack is a perfect place to start.
