Biodegradable Soap Brands and Reviews

Like I mentioned in detail on the Alternatives to biodegradable soap page I prefer to use alcohol based waterless hand sanitizers to clean up instead of soap. I don't need to worry about shampoo for my hair either since most of my trips are only about 2-10 days long. I find the alcohol easier to use since I don't have any soapy water that needs to be disposed of 200 feet away from water sources.

Also I have a safety concern using biodegradable soaps because some of them are very fragrant and may be an attractant for bears. Be sure to put your soap in your bear bag. If you are counting ounces to keep your pack light make sure to repackage your soap in a smaller container. Remember most biodegradable soaps are super concentrated and it only takes a few drops per use to get clean.

That being said here are a few biodegradable soap brands I have experience with:

Sea to Summit Wilderness Wash Review

Pro's: not super fragrant, smaller 1.3 oz bottle (40mL), secure bottle top, only need small amount for washing up

Con's: made in China

Specs: is phosphate free, biodegradeable, concentrated liquid, all purpose, use in fresh or saltwater, lo-sudsing, HDPE 2

Instructions on bottle: Use at least 100 meters (328 feet) from natural water sources. Use 1 cap full (3-5mL) for an average shower.

Ingredients: disodium ethylenediamine tetraacetate, sodium laureth sulfate, isothiazolinone chloride, coconut diethanol amide, sodium chloride, acetate chlorhexidine, glyceryl cocoate, lauryl hydroxy sulfobetaine, sodium lauroyl sarcosinate

Where to Find: REI, Amazon

Campsuds with Citronella, Lavender, and Peppermint Oils Review

Pro's: Made in the USA, pleasing smell, a little goes a long way

Con's: 4oz (120mL) container is too big for backpacking, top spout style can leak, too aromatic... can smell outside bottle

Specs: phosphate free, biodegradable, all purpose, concentrated liquid, use in fresh or salt water, HDPE 4

Instructions on bottle: Use at least 200 feet away from lakes and streams. Dig a hole 6-8" deep to dispose of soapy rinse water. This allows soil bacteria to completely biodegrade Campsuds.

Ingredients: blend of purified water, vegetable based biodegradable anionic and non ionic cleaning agents and natural fragrance oils

Misc Info: The Original Campsuds brand is available in 2 oz size up to gallon bulk sizes

Where to Find: REI, Amazon, or any major outdoor store

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