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Soap Expiry: One of the important bathroom essentials is the colourful and scented bar soap. Soap bars have been in existence for millennia and there has been evidence of the production of soap-like materials in ancient Babylon around 2800 BC. Made by mixing fats and oils with a base, bar soaps come in different shapes, sizes and scents. It might have happened that you have overlooked that one soap resting in the shower or by the sink at least once until now. That particular tiny, scented soap is always ready to serve its purpose of cleaning and removing dirt. But have you ever wondered whether the old scented soap actually expired or not? 

Here’s everything you need to know about soap and its expiry.

Does Soap Expire?

Yes, soaps expire and have a ‘best before’ date. Most commercial soaps last for about two to three years. The natural, handmade soaps that have fewer preservatives might start to degrade approximately after six months to a year. Over time, the fats and oils in the soap can go rancid, fragrances can fade and the buttery texture can become as hard as a piece of chalk. 

What Happens If You Use Expired Soap?

Less Lather And Cleaning Power

Expired soap may not produce lather, making the shower routine a disappointing one. With not enough formation of foam, the soap won’t remove the dirt and oil effectively, resulting in unsatisfactory cleanliness.

Weird Smell And Strange Textures

The fragrance of expired bar soap gets a little weird due to the deterioration of its oils and fats. Besides, its texture gets cracked and crumbly, giving you signals that your soap has passed its prime.

What Happens When You Use Expired Soap

Side Effects Of Expired Soap (Image Credits: Canva)

Irritation And Dryness

If the oils of the bar soap go rancid, they may cause skin irritation, itchiness or even a mild rash. This especially happens if you have sensitive skin. The old, broken-down ingredients of the soap can be more irritating than helpful.

Bacteria And Mould Risks

Although soaps are designed to kill germs, it is not immune to bacteria itself. A bar soap left in a moist environment can become a breeding ground for mould and bacteria, especially if it contains organic ingredients. It is advisable to not use it.

How To Know If The Soap Has Expired? 

Are you not sure whether your soap has expired or not? Here’s how you can check

  • The soap has expired if the scent has faded or gone completely.

  • You may see cracks, crumbliness, or weird discolouration on the body of the bar soap.

  • The soap has become slim and sticky.

  • Having an odd, musty and rancid smell.

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