Soap Making History

Soap making has been around almost as long as humans have! The ancient Babylonians were making soap as early as 2800 B.C. Researchers unearthed containers from that time period, which were found to contain a mixture of boiled fat mixed with ashes. This is thought of to be the first evidence of soap. The ancient Egyptians were also a hygienic people, and made their soap from animal and vegetable sources mixed with different substances like various types of salt.

Around 300 A.D., Greek physician Galen recommended that soap be used as a cleanser and for certain medical purposes. At this time public baths were widely popular, so soap was a natural progression!

After the end of the Roman Empire came the Dark Ages. During this period of history, soap was basically unheard of. This filthy era lasted until around the 17th century, when bathing and the use of soap began to gain favor throughout Europe.

In 1608, soap makers brought their craft to Jamestown. However, it was not until 1850 that soap making became an industry. This was in part due to the Industrial Revolution, and in part due to the advanced techniques and ingredients developed by soap makers in the past two hundred years.

During the early 1900’s, there was a shortage of traditional soap making materials, which led to the invention of detergent. Since then, there have been many soap variations to hit the market — including liquid soap, shower gel, and bubble bath.

These days, soap is a common household item. There are so many different brands and types of soap available, it would take a lifetime to try them all! Soap is not just a necessity for sanitary living. It’s often a luxury for people who want to pamper their skin with nurturing ingredients and delectable fragrances.

Soap has truly become an art form — with soaps in different colors, shapes, and sizes. There are soaps that contain items suspended inside of them, soaps in every scent imaginable to mankind, and soaps with beautiful designs carved into them. There’s no doubt that soap has come a long way since those days in ancient Egypt!