Ida's Soap Box

Have you ever enjoyed the scent of a fragrant flower or herb? The fragrance comes from potent, aromatic compounds called essential oils. Essential oils not only give plants their unique scents, they also help lure plant pollinators and protect plants from insects and other predators.

Syndet is a blended word made by combining the words “synthetic” and “detergent.” There is a lot of hype about using syndet bars to go "soap-free." The theory is that since they are less alkaline than natural soap they will not harm the acid mantle.

Although you may see many different "organic" logos, symbols and badges on products, signs, and website, there are only two that have any real meaning. They are the circular "USDA Organic" logo and the logo from a USDA accredited certifying agency.

When you need soap, body wash or household cleaners, do you reach for products labeled “antibacterial?” Consumers often believe that antibacterial products are more effective at preventing the spread of germs, but there is no scientific evidence that they are more effective than plain soap and water. In fact, some data suggests that antibacterial ingredients may do more harm than good over the long-term.