What Is Handmade Goat Milk Soap Made Of?

Handmade goat milk soap begins with a short list of practical ingredients. Every maker develops a slightly different formula, but the foundation is usually oils, goat milk, sodium hydroxide, and optional color or scent.

Goat milk

Goat milk replaces some or all of the water used in traditional soapmaking. It contributes natural sugars and fats that help create a creamy lather and gives each bar its familiar farmhouse character.

Oils and fats

Olive oil is often used for a gentle, conditioning bar, while coconut oil helps create cleansing power and bubbles. Some recipes also include tallow, cocoa butter, shea butter, or other oils to change the hardness and feel of the finished soap.

Sodium hydroxide

Sodium hydroxide, commonly called lye, is required to turn oils and milk into true soap. During saponification, it reacts with the fats and is transformed. Properly formulated and fully cured soap should not contain free lye.

Scent and color

Fragrance oils, essential oils, clays, charcoal, herbs, or natural colorants may be added depending on the variety. Unscented bars are also a useful option for shoppers who prefer a simpler formula.

Always read the ingredient list before purchasing, especially when you have allergies or sensitivities. Handmade soap is simple, but the details matter.

See the Ingredients in Our Own Bars

The Goat Milk Soap Discovery Collection lets you try four small-batch varieties made with fresh milk from our Georgia herd, along with a reusable sisal soap saver bag.

Shop the Goat Milk Soap Discovery Collection