Bar Soap

Bar soap is one of the most familiar and widely used forms of soap. It is typically solid, compact, and easy to store.

Bar soap is commonly used because:

• it is simple and recognizable
• it works well in bathrooms and showers
• it can be portioned for guest use

In guest settings, bar soap is often chosen in smaller sizes to avoid partially used products between stays.

Liquid Soap

Liquid soap is typically dispensed from bottles or pumps and is commonly found at sinks.

Liquid soap is favored when:

• ease of use is a priority
• shared spaces require clear hygiene signals
• dispensers are used for consistency

Many bathrooms combine liquid soap at the sink with bar soap or body wash in the shower.

Handmade Soap

Handmade soap is produced in smaller batches using traditional methods rather than mass manufacturing.

Handmade soap is often associated with:

• visible variation between bars
• longer curing times
• intentional production methods

Because of its appearance and process, handmade soap is frequently chosen for guest bathrooms and curated spaces where presentation matters.

Artisan Soap

Artisan soap is a category within handmade soap. The term generally refers to soaps that are shaped, cut, or finished by hand with attention to visual detail.

Artisan soap is often used when:

• design and texture are important
• soap is visible within the space
• a curated appearance is desired

Guest Soap

Guest soap is soap specifically intended for visitors rather than personal use. It is chosen to be neutral, presentable, and appropriate for short stays.

Guest soap is commonly:

• smaller in size
• consistent across bathrooms
• easy to restock

This type of soap is widely used in hospitality and short-term rental environments, often sourced from focused collections like Guest & Hospitality Soaps.

Decorative Soap

Decorative soap refers to soap chosen not only for function but also for how it looks within a space.

Decorative soap:

• supports bathroom design
• adds visual balance
• feels intentional rather than incidental

In guest environments, decorative soap often overlaps with handmade or artisan soap.

Choosing the Right Type of Soap

The best type of soap depends on where and how it will be used.

Consider:

• whether the space is personal or guest-focused
• how often the soap will be replaced
• how visible the soap will be
• the level of consistency required

In guest and hospitality settings, soap is often selected not for novelty, but for clarity and reliability.

Final Thoughts: Soap Is Chosen by Context

There is no single “best” type of soap. Each type exists because it serves a specific purpose.

Understanding the different types of soap helps clarify why certain soaps feel appropriate in guest bathrooms, curated spaces, and hospitality environments, while others are better suited for personal use.