10 Best Non-toxic Hand Soaps That Are Safe And Gentle on the Skin

Written by Shebna V, Health & Fitness Coach
Updated on Jan 31, 2024
10 Best Non-toxic Hand Soaps That Are Safe And Gentle on the Skin
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In a world where we keep getting more health-conscious with every passing day, finding the best non-toxic hand soaps has become something that’s essential. As we went over the endless amount of products available, finding the safest hand soap became our topmost priority. While researching a list of hygiene essentials, we came across an array of non-toxic soap brands that offer both effective and mild options for your gentle skin.

Our team of experts conducted rigorous tests with various hand soaps – they came up with a list of 10 that outperformed the rest. From breaking down the ingredients to evaluating the overall performance, we’ve done all the work for you. If you want to know more about each of our recommended products, keep reading, by the end of this article, you’ll have found the ideal choice for your home.

10 Best Non-toxic Hand Soaps That Are Safe And Effective

This clean and non-toxic hand soap is made with real essential oils and plant-based ingredients that are great for the environment. It offers a rich and luxurious foam that makes washing your hands an indulgent experience. The foam is moisturizing and won’t dry out the hands while the “Forest Escape’ fragrance adds an invigorating touch. Additionally, the pump dispenser bottle can be refilled and reused, eliminating the need for single-use bottles that contribute to plastic waste. It also doesn’t contain propyl-parabens, butyl-parabens, phthalates, formaldehyde, formaldehyde donors, nonylphenol ethoxylates (NPEs), oxybenzone, SLES, retinyl palmitate, hydroquinone, triclosan, triclocarban, BHA & BHT.

Pros
  • Cruelty-free
  • Vegan
  • Safe for pets
  • Foams easily
  • Cleans effectively
  • Made in the USA
Cons
  • Very watery consistency
  • Best for Sensitive Skin

    J.R. WATKINS Foaming Hand Soap

    J.R. WATKINS Foaming Hand Soap
  • With every wash, this soap will leave your hands feeling soft and nourished – it has been carefully formulated using plant-based cleansers that won’t dry the skin out. It has a well-balanced rosewater scent that’s very refreshing, and it’s safe to use on sensitive skin. You don’t have to worry about the soap containing parabens, sulfates, and phthalates as the formula contains no nasties and is non-irritating. It’s also 100% cruelty-free and certified by Leaping Bunny, so you can rest assured that it’s never tested on animals.

    Pros
    • Made in the USA
    • Has a relaxing scent
    • Contains calendula, oats, and vitamins D & E
    • Environmentally-friendly
    • Formulated without alcohol
    • Comes in a pack of 3
    Cons
    • Not suitable for those with fragrance sensitivities
  • Most Attractive Packaging

    MICHEL DESIGN WORKS Foaming Shea Butter Hand Soap

    MICHEL DESIGN WORKS Foaming Shea Butter Hand Soap
  • This luxurious hand soap comes in the most elegant and attractive pump dispenser bottle, making it a great addition to any washing station in the house. It contains shea butter and aloe vera that gently cleanse and moisturize the skin, leaving it super soft and refreshed. The fragrance is made up of citrussy notes like lemon and mandarin that are enhanced with notes of green basil leaf. An Amazon review reads “The bottle is quite beautiful. The soap foams nicely out of the dispenser, and is smooth on your hands, as well as smelling lovely.”

    Pros
    • Suitable for all skin types
    • Comes with the brand’s signature medallion
    • Very aesthetically-pleasing
    • Paraben-free
    • Gets rid of oils and odors
    • Ideal for gifting
    Cons
    • Expensive
  • Best Cruelty-free Formula

    method Naturally Derived Foaming Hand Wash

    method Naturally Derived Foaming Hand Wash
  • This foaming hand wash is safe to be used on all skin types as it is formulated with plant-based cleansers. It’s also biodegradable and is made without using any parabens or phthalates. The bottle, apart from the pump, is made from 100% recycled plastic, making it an eco-friendly option. After every use, your hands will feel soft and clean – the soap leaves behind a subtle “Sea Minerals” scent that’s a blend of notes like bergamot, lemon, and rosemary along with crisp marine notes.

    Pros
    • Cruelty-free
    • Lathers well
    • Contains safe ingredients
    • Good for the planet
    • Doesn’t leave any residue
    • Non-drying
    Cons
    • The pump may malfunction quickly
  • Best Hypoallergenic Formula

    ATTITUDE Foaming Hand Soap

    ATTITUDE Foaming Hand Soap
  • This foaming hand soap from ATTITUDE has a natural formula – it’s made with 98.7 naturally sourced ingredients, including revitalizing green tea, watercress, and Indian watercress leaf extract. It makes the hands soft while the gentle and delicate foam effectively cleanses dirt. Additionally, the packaging is eco-friendly, and the formula is 100% vegan and cruelty-free. The scent contains notes of coriander and olive, giving it a distinct herbal smell. Plus, it’s also tested by dermatologists and has a hypoallergenic formula.

    Pros
    • Has a luxurious foamy texture
    • No ingredients of concern according to the EWG
    • Restores suppleness
    • Uses up to 80% less plastic
    • ECOLOGO certified
    • BPA-free
    Cons
    • Some may not like the scent
  • Best for babies and kids

    kosmatology Foaming Hand Soap

    kosmatology Foaming Hand Soap
  • The kosmatology Foaming Hand Soap is made with organic oils and is scented with organic essential oils – this makes the formula potent and effective. It contains no triclosan or anti-bacterial agents, making it safe to be used by the entire family. It’s also vegan and cruelty-free, boasting certifications from PETA and Leaping Bunny. A customer on Amazon says “This is a good, clean hand soap. Lathers great. Doesn’t dry out hands and lasts quite a while in my home. Scents are fun and not overwhelming.”

    Pros
    • Contains no harsh chemicals
    • Leaves no residue
    • Easy to rinse off
    • No synthetic fragrances
    • A little goes a long way
    • Safe for babies
    Cons
    • The pump may get clogged
  • Best Fragrance

    Orange House Hand Soap

    Orange House Hand Soap
  • This plant-based, premium hand soap contains 100% food-grade orange oil, elevating your hand wash routine. It has a fresh and natural fragrance of peeled oranges, all thanks to the cold-pressed citrus peels. The formula is moisturizing and it cleans the hands well, leaving them refreshed. Dermatologically tested and USDA-certified, it has a safe and gentle formula that can be used by individuals of all ages. The best part is that the bottle has a classy and minimal design – it fits perfectly into any kitchen or bathroom.

    Pros
    • Safe for sensitive skin
    • Natural scent
    • Hydrating formula
    • Effectively removes grease
    • Generous size
    • Very gentle
    Cons
    • Not suitable for those who prefer strong scents
  • Best Vegan Formula

    dropps Foaming Hand Soap

    dropps Foaming Hand Soap
  • The dropps Foaming Hand Soap contains cleaning agents that attach themselves to oil and dirt particles on the skin – this makes it very easy to get squeaky clean hands. It also features a sustainable formula that’s made with plant-based ingredients that are safe for both the skin and the planet. Ingredients such as marshmallow extract, vitamin E, aloe vera, and shea oil make it super moisturizing – it will leave your hands soft and smooth. The best part is that it comes with refill pods that dissolve in water and the amber glass bottles are recyclable and refillable.

    Pros
    • Safe for sensitive skin
    • Lasts for a long time
    • Pleasant scent
    • Vegan
    • Cruelty-free
    • Free from parabens and dyes
    Cons
    • Doesn’t foam very well
  • Most Lightweight Formula

    eczema honey Foaming Hand Soap

    eczema honey Foaming Hand Soap
  • Ideal for working hands, the eczema honey Foaming Hand Soap is gentle and intensely nourishing – it cleanses with coconut oil, palm oil, hemp oil, and olive oil. It also contains organic honey that softens the hands during eczema flare-ups, also perfect for colder climates. The natural ingredients are non-irritating and the lightweight formula contains colloidal oats that soothe dry and cracked skin. Additionally, it contains no harmful ingredients, is free from fragrances, and is Leaping Bunny certified too.

    Pros
    • Skin-friendly
    • Unscented
    • Cruelty-free
    • Can be used daily
    • Paraben-free
    • Sulfate-free
    Cons
    • Feels watered down
  • Best Kit

    maisonovo Foaming Hand Wash Kit

    maisonovo Foaming Hand Wash Kit
  • This non-toxic hand wash kit comes with an amber glass foaming soap dispenser, a black pump, and 4 foaming hand soap refill tablets in scents such as jasmine, rose, lily, and an unscented version. Each refill tablet lasts 6 to 8 weeks on average and is made from plant-based and non-toxic ingredients that are safe for all skin types. With every wash, your hands will feel moisturized and smell great. They are also cruelty-free, vegan, and free from parabens, dyes, and phthalates.

    Pros
    • Foams very well
    • Reduces plastic waste
    • Fast-dissolving tablets
    • Easy to use
    • Travel-friendly
    • Smells great
    Cons
    • Doesn’t get rid of grease properly

    Now that we’ve seen some of the best non-toxic hand soaps that are available, let’s find out why you should opt for one.

    Why Should You Opt for a Non-toxic Hand Soap?

    The following are 5 reasons why you should switch to non-toxic hand soaps:

    They Are Healthier

    Non-toxic hand soaps are generally made without harmful chemicals like parabens, phthalates, and triclosan that may have adverse effects on your health. This can help in reducing any risk of irritating your skin while also reducing the potential for long-term health issues.

    Safe for the Environment 

    Soaps that are non-toxic in nature are generally made up of biodegradable ingredients that are more gentle on the environment. By opting for such soaps, you are contributing to a better planet – the release of harmful substances into water sources and ecosystems is drastically minimized.

    No Harmful Residues

    Regular soaps often leave behind a residue on your hands – they contain harsh chemicals that may get absorbed into your body. However, the non-toxic alternatives utilize natural and safe ingredients that are known to not leave behind any unwanted residue.

    Reduced Risk of Allergy

    Harsh chemicals and synthetic fragrances that are present in some soaps may trigger allergies or sensitivities in individuals. Using a non-toxic hand soap that has a natural fragrance and hypoallergenic ingredients can help reduce the risk of any reactions.

    Cruelty-free Practices

    The majority of non-toxic hand soaps are manufactured by brands that are committed to cruelty-free testing methods. By opting for these products, you align with ethical consumer choices, hence promoting a more compassionate approach to personal care products.

    What Should You Look for in a Soap?

    There are a few things to keep in mind while selecting a soap. We’ve mentioned a few below:

    Formula: You need to consider the formula when choosing a hand soap – do you prefer bars, liquids, tablets, or something else? Some are easier to use while you’re on the go.

    The Ingredients:  Opt for soaps that contain gentle ingredients like glycerin, shea butter, and natural oils.

    Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Say no to products that contain harmful additives like sulfates and synthetic fragrances as they are known to be irritating.

    pH Balance: Choose soaps that are pH-balanced – this way you can keep your skin happy and healthy.

    The Benefits of Using a Non-toxic Hand Soap

    Here are a few benefits of using a non-toxic hand soap:

    1. They are mild and gentle on the skin, reducing the risk of irritation.

    2. They are safe for the environment and usually biodegradable.

    3. Kids can use them as they are safe to use on tender and sensitive skin.

    4. There are no toxic chemicals or fragrances used in the formula.

    5. Most of the time, they don’t leave behind any unwanted residue.

    6. They don’t pollute water systems with harsh and harmful substances.

    7. Generally, they are cruelty-free and not tested on animals, making it a conscious and kinder choice.

    Conclusion

    In a world where it’s so important to stay clean, especially since the post-COVID period, choosing the best non-toxic hand soap is a small yet impactful decision that one can make. As we came up with a list of the 10 best non-toxic options, we noticed that choosing a healthy hand soap is a choice that one makes for their well-being. From the gentle ingredients to eco-conscious factors, the benefits of using a non-toxic alternative go beyond personal hygiene. If you’re looking for an aesthetic yet effective addition, we suggest that you opt for MICHEL DESIGN WORKS Foaming Shea Butter Hand Soap. On the other hand, if you prefer more practical, natural hand soaps, the maisonovo Foaming Hand Wash Kit is just what you need.

    FAQ's

    Are all hand soaps antibacterial?
    No, not all soaps are antibacterial. Regular soaps are made to get rid of dirt and oils that are present on the surface of your hands – they don’t contain any antibacterial properties. However, they still can get rid of bacteria and virus-causing germs.
    What are the best non-toxic soaps?
    There’s a wide variety of non-toxic soaps available and we’ve mentioned 10 of the best ones above.
    What is a safe non-toxic hand soap?
    A safe non-toxic hand soap is one that contains no harsh or harmful chemicals.
    What is the least toxic soap?
    Castile soap is generally considered to be the least toxic and is typically made from all-natural ingredients.
    Is Dove hand soap non-toxic?
    Dove hand soap is supposed to be safe and non-toxic, however, it is important to check if you may be sensitive to any ingredients before using it.
    Can non-toxic hand soaps be suitable for sensitive skin?
    Yes, there are non-toxic hand soaps that are specifically crafted for sensitive skin types.
    Are non-toxic hand soaps safe for children to use?
    Yes, non-toxic hand soaps are safe for children to use.
    Are non-toxic hand soaps effective against germs and bacteria?
    Yes, a lot of non-toxic hand soaps can offer effective protection against germs and bacteria.

    Why Trust Pinkvilla

    Shebna V, the author, likes to spend her time researching the best health and fitness finds ranking high across various platforms to bring her readers a curation of the most useful products. She believes that non-toxic hand soaps are the superior choice, especially since they’re safe to be used by everyone in the family, including kids. While testing the products, she found that she preferred the most – the maisonovo Foaming Hand Wash Kit had a pleasant fragrance and it foamed up really well. Apart from that, it comes with dissolvable refill tablets that last a long time, making it convenient. 

    Our product experts study the specifications of every product we suggest and try them out to bring what’s proven to be worthy of your money, time, and energy. We also have subject matter experts from various fields like Fashion, Skincare, Haircare, Home Decor, and Health & Fitness onboard to make sure our suggestions are credible and trustworthy. You can trust Select to be your faithful shopping guide for all the right reasons!

    Author BIO
    reviewer
    Shebna V
    Health & Fitness Coach

    Shebna is a content creator with an experience of over 6 years and likes to delve into all things health and fit More