Castile soap is a versatile and eco-friendly soap that can be used in numerous ways around the house. This article explores the various uses of castile soap in Singapore, from cleaning to personal care and more. Discover the benefits and practical applications of using castile soap in your daily routine.
Ways to Use Castile Soap
Castile soap has become a popular eco-friendly cleaning staple in many Singaporean households. Originally from the Castile region of Spain, this olive-oil based soap has been used for centuries across Europe. Now produced with various plant oils, Castile soap has a wide range of uses beyond just washing hands.
Caring for Your Body Naturally
The liquid form of Castile soap makes an excellent natural body wash or shower gel. It creates a rich, bubbly lather to gently cleanse skin without stripping away natural oils. A few drops diluted in water can also be used as a facial wash. Castile soap leaves skin feeling refreshed and moisturised, not dry or tight. Those with sensitive skin or conditions like eczema may find it less irritating than regular body washes.
You can also use Castile soap to create customised body care recipes. Try mixing it with coconut oil, honey, and essential oils like lavender or jasmine for a soothing, aromatic body lotion. For an invigorating peppermint foot scrub, combine Castile soap with sugar and peppermint essential oil. Massage into tired feet for smooth, soft skin. Castile soap also works well as a natural shaving cream, leaving skin smooth without irritation.
Household Cleaning Uses
Around the home, Castile soap makes an effective multi-purpose cleaner. Dilute a small amount of the liquid soap in water and use it to wash dishes, surfaces, mop floors, wipe down appliances and more. With no harsh chemical fumes, Castile soap cleaners are safe for children and pets.
For scrubbing tiles, sinks, bathtubs, Castile soap can be mixed with baking soda into a non-toxic paste. Allow it to set for a few minutes before scrubbing to lift stubborn stains and grease. An all-natural ant spray can be made by combining Castile soap, tea tree oil and water in a spray bottle. The tea tree oil naturally repels ants and other insects.
Castile soap dissolved in water also works well as a natural produce wash. Give your fruits and vegetables a soak to remove pesticides and wax before eating or cooking. It can also be used as a gentle laundry detergent for babies’ clothes as it rinses away cleanly with no residue.
Buying Castile Soap in Singapore
Castile soap used to be difficult to find in Singapore, but is now widely available at major supermarkets, organic stores and online shops. Cold Storage, Jason’s, Supernature, and Nature’s Glory stock a range of imported and local brands. Check ingredients to ensure it is made with 100% vegetable oils like olive, coconut or palm.
For a plastic-free option, buy Castile soap in bar form. These solid soap blocks come wrapped in paper or cardboard. Local brands like Handmade Heroes and Common Good produce Castile bars using regional oils like coconut and palm. For the best value, purchase Castile soap in bulk sizes. Refillable 1 litre bottles allow multiple refills at lower cost.
Making Your Own Castile Soap
The zero-waste and DIY-enthusiast community in Singapore has shown interest in making homemade Castile soap from scratch. While this requires handling lye, proper safety precautions make the process safe. Online recipes outline the basic steps and ingredients needed. Some zero-waste shops also conduct Castile soap making workshops occasionally.
Producing your own Castile soap allows full control over the ingredients used. You can customise it with your preferred oils and scents. Making it yourself also reduces single-use plastic waste from store-bought liquid soap. For those who want to try, take safety seriously and research thoroughly before starting.
With its environmentally friendly properties and versatility, Castile soap has become a bathroom and household staple for many eco-conscious Singaporeans.