“Natural soap” is everywhere in Australia. Every brand seems to use the word, and honestly, it’s easy to see why. Natural sounds safer. Gentler. Cleaner.
But here’s the truth most people learn the hard way:
Natural doesn’t automatically mean “no nasties.”
A soap can include plant oils and butters… and still contain ingredients many people are trying to avoid. So if you’re trying to switch to a cleaner routine, this guide will help you make a confident choice, without getting fooled by feel-good labels.
What is “natural soap” (and why it can be misleading)?
Most “natural soaps” are marketed with ingredients like:
- plant oils (coconut, olive, etc.)
- butters (shea, cocoa butter)
- clays, botanicals, essential oils
That sounds great, and those ingredients can absolutely be beautiful on skin.
The problem is that the word “natural” is often used loosely.
It can mean “contains some natural ingredients”… while the rest of the formula still includes things like:
- synthetic fragrance (“parfum”)
- colourants
- fillers
- harsher cleansing agents
So yes: natural ingredients can be real, and the greenwashing can be real too.
What is “organic soap” (and why it matters more than people think)?
If “natural” is often a vibe, “organic” is a higher-trust signal when used properly.
Organic soap generally means the formula includes ingredients sourced from organic agriculture standards (where possible) and that the brand is transparent about what’s inside.
That’s why we like weaving both into how we talk about soap:
- Natural = what it sounds like
- Organic = what you can actually verify through ingredients + sourcing
Natural vs Organic Soap: what should you focus on when shopping?
If you’re choosing between “natural” and “organic,” here’s the simplest way to decide:
1) Look past the front label
“Natural,” “clean,” “green,” “chemical-free”, these words aren’t enough on their own.
2) Check the full ingredient list
A truly clean soap doesn’t hide behind vague phrases like “natural oils” or “plant-based goodness.”
3) Decide your personal “no nasties” line
Everyone’s list is different, but most people who shop low-tox want to reduce:
- unnecessary fragrance or perfume
- unnecessary dyes
- harsh, stripping cleansers
- filler ingredients that don’t serve your skin
Why “natural soap” sometimes leaves skin tight and dry
If you’ve ever stepped out of the shower feeling squeaky, tight, or itchy, that’s your skin telling you something.
A lot of people assume:
“It feels tight = it’s really clean.”
But tightness is often a sign your skin has been stripped, not cared for.
A better bar leaves you feeling:
- clean without discomfort
- soft enough that you’re not rushing for lotion
- calm, not reactive
Our soaps: truly organic, made in Australia
At Abetter, we make soap for people who are over the greenwashing and just want something that feels genuinely good on their skin. Our bars are handmade in Australia with a focus on organic ingredients and no nasties, and we source our organic ingredients through an ACO-certified Australian supplier, so our inputs meet a higher standard from the start. Simple, transparent, skin-kind soap that fits a cleaner daily routine.
Our Organic Castor Oil Soap Bar
This is our “easy yes” bar. A simple all-rounder that’s loved for that clean-but-comfortable feel.
Why people choose it:
- rich, creamy lather
- plant oils + butters that feel nourishing
- a beautiful option if you want an organic bar that still feels luxe
(And yes, it’s also a favourite for people trying to simplify their shower routine.)
Our Organic Tallow Soap Bar
This is our comfort bar. The one people reach for when they want that conditioned “skin feels looked-after” finish.
Why people choose it:
- grass-fed tallow for a creamy cleanse
- organic supporting oils for a smooth feel
- a gorgeous option when you want a natural soap experience but with organic-level ingredient integrity
How to make your natural or organic soap bar last longer
A great bar deserves a great setup. To help your soap last:
- keep it on a draining dish (so it dries between uses)
- store it out of direct shower spray
- let it air-dry fully
This one small change can make a bar last noticeably longer.
FAQs: Natural vs Organic Soap
What’s the difference between natural soap and organic soap?
Natural soap usually refers to soaps made with plant oils, butters, clays, or botanicals, but the term can be used loosely. Organic soap generally refers to formulas that include ingredients sourced from organic agriculture standards and are typically backed by clearer sourcing and ingredient transparency.
Is “natural soap” always free from nasties?
No. A soap can be labelled “natural” and still include ingredients some people prefer to avoid, like synthetic fragrance (parfum), colourants, fillers, or harsher cleansing agents. The best way to check is to read the full ingredient list.
Why does some soap make my skin feel tight or dry after showering?
That tight, squeaky feeling can be a sign the cleanser is stripping your skin. A gentler soap should leave you feeling clean but still comfortable—without dryness or itchiness after you towel off.
What should I look for when choosing a no-nasties soap bar?
Look for a full ingredient list, avoid vague marketing claims without specifics, and choose a formula that aligns with what you personally avoid—many shoppers minimise heavy fragrance, dyes, harsh cleansers, and unnecessary fillers.
Are A Better soaps made in Australia?
Yes. Our soap bars are handmade in Australia and made for people who want a simpler, no-nasties routine.
Where do you source your organic ingredients?
We source our organic ingredients through an ACO-certified Australian supplier, so our inputs meet a higher standard from the start.
Which A Better soap should I choose: Castor Oil Soap Bar or Tallow Soap Bar?
Choose our Organic Castor Oil Soap Bar if you want a plant-oil-forward, creamy-lather daily bar. Choose our Organic Tallow Soap Bar if you want a richer, more comfort-cleanse feel and a softer “skin feels looked-after” finish.
Can I use the A Better Organic Castor Oil Soap Bar as shampoo?
Yes. Our Organic Castor Oil Soap Bar can also be used as a shampoo, making it a great option if you’re simplifying your shower routine.
How do I make a natural or organic soap bar last longer?
Let it dry fully between uses. Store it on a draining soap dish, keep it out of direct shower spray, and let it air-dry so the bar doesn’t stay soggy.
Can I use your soap bars every day?
Yes. Our bars are designed to be simple daily staples for a cleaner routine.
