Best Overall
Puracy Organic Liquid Hand Soap
AMAZON
- It's made with plant-based ingredients and is free of harsh chemicals, including SLS, parabens, and phthalates.
It's made with plant-based ingredients and is free of harsh chemicals, including SLS, parabens, and phthalates.
- It’s a bit pricer than some other soaps on the market.
It’s a bit pricer than some other soaps on the market.
Puracy Organic Hand Soap is our choice for the best overall hand soap because it checks all the boxes in terms of quality, ingredients, and effectiveness. It's made with plant-based ingredients and is free of harsh chemicals, including SLS, parabens, and phthalates.
It's also hypoallergenic and contains moisturizing ingredients like aloe vera to keep hands hydrated and nourished. Additionally, it comes in a variety of refreshing scents, such as lavender and vanilla, citrus and sea salt, and cucumber and mint.
You can buy a refill pouch, two 12-ounce bottles, one 48-ounce bottle, or one 64-ounce bottle. However, it is a bit pricer than some other soaps on the market.
Product Details: Type: Liquid | Scent: Lavender and Vanilla | Volume: 12 ounces
Best Budget
Mrs. Meyer’s Liquid Hand Soap
AMAZON
- It’s made with aloe vera, olive oil, and essential oils to hydrate and moisturize the skin.
It’s made with aloe vera, olive oil, and essential oils to hydrate and moisturize the skin.
- It’s not recommended for people with sensitive skin or eczema.
It’s not recommended for people with sensitive skin or eczema.
If you're looking for an affordable hand soap that doesn't compromise on quality, licensed skincare expert and founder of Element Medical Aesthetics Merry Thornton recommends Mrs. Meyer's Clean Day Liquid Hand Soap. It's cruelty-, paraben-, and phthalate-free, and it contains aloe vera and olive oil to hydrate and moisturize.
This budget-friendly three-pack of Mrs. Meyer's Clean Day Liquid Hand Soap in the Peony scent is a great option for those who want to keep their hands clean without breaking the bank. However, it's important to note that this hand soap may not be suitable for individuals with sensitive skin or eczema, as it contains fragrance.
Product Details: Type: Liquid | Scent: Lemon | Volume: 12.5 ounces
Best Splurge
Aesop Aromatique Hand Wash
AMAZON
- It contains finely milled pumice, which gently exfoliates the skin to remove dirt, oil, and dead skin cells, leaving the skin soft and smooth.
It contains finely milled pumice, which gently exfoliates the skin to remove dirt, oil, and dead skin cells, leaving the skin soft and smooth.
- Its unique scent may be too strong or overpowering for some people.
Its unique scent may be too strong or overpowering for some people.
Hand soap can be more than just a utilitarian product. Whether you're interested in finding the best hand soap for your guest bathroom or want to create an at-home spa experience, the Aesop Reverence Aromatique Hand Wash is definitely worth considering.
"It has a lovely woody, earthy aroma and contains finely milled pumice to cleanse, exfoliate, and smooth the skin," Thornton says. "My hands never feel dried out after using it."
That said, while the Aesop Reverence Aromatique Hand Wash may offer a luxe yet effective cleaning experience, its unique scent may not be for everyone. If you prefer orange, rosemary, or lavender scents, we recommend Aesop Resurrection Aromatique Hand Wash.
Product Details: Type: Liquid | Scent: Reverence Aromatique | Volume: 16.9 ounces
Best Scent
Bath and BodyWorks Eucalyptus Spearmint Gentle and Clean Foaming Hand Soap
BATH and BODYWORKS
- This gentle, foaming hand soap creates a rich lather and nourishes the skin with aloe vera and vitamin E.
This gentle, foaming hand soap creates a rich lather and nourishes the skin with aloe vera and vitamin E.
- It's a limited-edition scent, so it may not be available all year round.
It's a limited-edition scent, so it may not be available all year round.
Whether you believe in the power of aromatherapy or not, there's no denying the uplifting and refreshing scent of Bath and Body Works Eucalyptus Spearmint Gentle and Clean Foaming Hand Soap.
With its blend of eucalyptus and spearmint, this hand soap cleanses your hands and leaves a delightful fragrance that lingers long after you wash. It's also dye-, paraben-, and sulfate-free and creates a rich lather that makes one pump go a long way.
Aloe vera, essential oils, vitamin E, and shea formula help your skin maintain natural moisture, leaving your hands soft and nourished. If you're a fan of this scent, stock up because it's a limited-edition scent and may not be available all year round.
Product Details: Type: Foaming | Scent: Eucalyptus Spearmint | Volume: 8.75 ounces
Best Unscented
Seventh Generation Unscented Hand Soap
WALGREENS
- It’s unscented, has a sturdy pump, and a consistency that’s easy to wash off.
It’s unscented, has a sturdy pump, and a consistency that’s easy to wash off.
- If you’re looking for a scented soap, this may not be the best option.
If you’re looking for a scented soap, this may not be the best option.
Seventh Generation Free and Clean Hand Soap is made with plant-based ingredients and is free of harsh chemicals and artificial fragrances.
It’s also USDA Certified Biobased 97%, which means that it’s made with renewable plant-based ingredients, making it a good choice for people who are looking for an eco-friendly hand soap.
One potential downside of Seventh Generation Free and Clean Hand Soap is that it’s unscented. People who prefer a scented soap may need to look for other organic options.
Product Details: Type: Liquid | Scent: Unscented | Volume: 12 ounces
Best for Sensitive Skin
Vanicream Liquid Cleanser
AMAZON
- It's dermatologist-tested and non-comedogenic, making it suitable for even the most sensitive skin.
It's dermatologist-tested and non-comedogenic, making it suitable for even the most sensitive skin.
- The pump on this hand soap may be a bit stiff and difficult to use.
The pump on this hand soap may be a bit stiff and difficult to use.
If you prefer an unscented hand soap, the Vanicream Liquid Cleanser (formerly Free and Clear) is a good option to consider. Skincare experts (and Thornton) recommend it for those with sensitive skin or allergies, and it's free of dyes, lanolin, parabens, formaldehyde, and other potential irritants.
The Vanicream Liquid Cleanser is also non-comedogenic, meaning it won't clog pores or cause breakouts. It’s available in an eight-ounce and 32-ounce refill size for long-lasting use.
However, some users have reported that the pump on the bottle can be stiff and difficult to use. If you have limited dexterity or hand strength, consider a different hand soap.
Product Details: Type: Liquid | Scent: Unscented | Volume: 8 ounces
Best Moisturizing
CLn HandWash
AMAZON
- It's designed by dermatologists and safe for frequent use, providing effective cleansing without stripping the skin's natural moisture.
It's designed by dermatologists and safe for frequent use, providing effective cleansing without stripping the skin's natural moisture.
- It's pricer than other hand soaps on the market.
It's pricer than other hand soaps on the market.
CLn HandWash is a dermatologist-designed hand soap that cleanses effectively without stripping the skin's natural moisture. It's the best option for people with dry hands, including those in the medical field.
While the mild formula does contain sodium hypochlorite to preserve freshness, it also contains glycerin to hydrate and moisturize the skin.
CLn HandWash is the moisturizing version of hand sanitizer. It's clinically tested, hypoallergenic, non-irritating, and cruelty-free. It contains no steroids, antibiotics, parabens, or triclosan. The only downside is that CLn HandWash may be slightly more expensive than other hand soaps on the market.
Product Details: Type: Liquid | Scent: Unscented | Volume: 8 ounces
Best Antibacterial
Dove Nourishing Foaming Hand Wash
WALMART
- It provides the benefits of both antibacterial protection and nourishing hydration, making it a great option for those looking for extra germ-fighting power.
It provides the benefits of both antibacterial protection and nourishing hydration, making it a great option for those looking for extra germ-fighting power.
- It’s not ideal for daily use.
It’s not ideal for daily use.
Finding an antibacterial soap that is safe and effective can be tricky. The FDA has banned certain antibacterial ingredients in hand soaps, such as triclosan and triclocarban, due to concerns about antibiotic resistance and potential health risks.
However, some antibacterial hand soaps are available that use alternative ingredients to effectively kill germs without harmful ingredients. One option we recommend is Dove Antibacterial Nourishing Foaming Hand Wash.
This hand soap washes away 99% of germs while nourishing and moisturizing the skin. It's also dermatologist- and PETA-approved and creates an instant foam for a surprisingly luxe handwashing experience. Plus, the packaging is 100% recyclable.
It's important to note that antibacterial hand soaps are not recommended for everyday handwashing. Regular soap and water is just as effective at removing dirt and germs from your hands.
Product Details: Type: Foaming | Scent: Fresh Scent | Volume: 10.1 ounces
Best Exfoliating
Compagnie de Provence Exfoliating Liquid Soap
AMAZON
- It's made with finely ground olive seeds from the Mediterranean Basin and offers a gentle yet effective exfoliation for smoother, softer hands.
It's made with finely ground olive seeds from the Mediterranean Basin and offers a gentle yet effective exfoliation for smoother, softer hands.
- It may need to be pumped multiple times to get enough product.
It may need to be pumped multiple times to get enough product.
If you work in an environment that makes your hands dirty and rough, an exfoliating option may be right for you. Compagnie de Provence Savon Exfoliating Liquid Marseille Soap is a high-end hand soap that gently exfoliates the skin on your hands while providing an almost spa-like, aromatic experience.
It's made with finely ground olive seeds from the Mediterranean Basin, which offer a gentle yet effective exfoliation for smoother, softer hands. It also contains nourishing ingredients like glycerin and coconut oil to hydrate and moisturize the skin.
The soap comes in a chic glass bottle that can be refilled, making it a sustainable and eco-friendly option. However, some users have noted that the pump is easily clogged and may need to be pumped multiple times.
Product Details: Type: Liquid | Scent: Sparkling Citrus | Volume: 10 ounces
Best Foaming
Method Foaming Hand Soap
AMAZON
- It’s affordable, comes in a variety of light scents, and is packaged in a 100% recycled plastic bottle.
It’s affordable, comes in a variety of light scents, and is packaged in a 100% recycled plastic bottle.
- It’s on the smaller side, so you may need to repurchase it more frequently.
It’s on the smaller side, so you may need to repurchase it more frequently.
If you prefer a foaming hand soap over a bar or liquid, we recommend Method Foaming Hand Soap. It's affordable, comes in a variety of light scents, and is packaged in a 100% recycled plastic bottle.
The biodegradable formula is free of parabens and phthalates, making it a safer and more environmentally friendly choice. You can also buy refillable packs to save your plastic bottle.
Plus, it contains glycerin for added moisturization, leaving your hands soft and clean after every wash. However, some users have found that the 10-ounce bottle may not last as long as expected, so you may need to repurchase it more frequently.
Product Details: Type: Foaming | Scent: Waterfall | Volume: 10 ounces
Best Bar
Avène XeraCalm A.D Ultra-Rich Cleansing Bar
AVèNE
- Suitable for children and adults, this soap cleanses the face and body.
Suitable for children and adults, this soap cleanses the face and body.
- It may be more expensive than other bar soaps, but it's a good option for those with sensitive skin.
It may be more expensive than other bar soaps, but it's a good option for those with sensitive skin.
Kelly Rose, skincare specialist and founder of Kelly Rose Skincare and Aesthetics, recommends XeraCalm A.D Ultra-Rich Cleansing Bar as a gentle option for those who prefer bar soaps.
"This cleansing bar can be used daily, is extremely gentle and pH-balanced, making it perfect for all, including children and babies with sensitive skin," says Rose.
But extra care comes with a higher price tag. If you're not willing to spend that much money on a bar of soap, there are more affordable options available.
Product Details: Type: Bar | Scent: Unscented | Volume: 3.5 ounces
Best Organic
Dr. Bronner’s Pure-Castile Liquid Soap
AMAZON
- It's a multipurpose soap that's versatile and made with organic, fair trade ingredients.
It's a multipurpose soap that's versatile and made with organic, fair trade ingredients.
- Castile soap requires proper dilution and rinsing to avoid residue.
Castile soap requires proper dilution and rinsing to avoid residue.
If you're looking for a versatile liquid made with organic, fair-trade ingredients, Dr. Bronner's Pure-Castile Liquid Soap is a great choice. This castile soap has 18 uses, ranging from handwashing to dish washing to laundry and even household cleaning.
The lavender scent of this soap is gentle and soothing, making it a great option for those who enjoy floral fragrances, but it comes in other fragrances, too. Mix it with water in a dispenser and store the rest for refilling purposes.
Just remember to dilute the soap properly and rinse thoroughly to avoid any residue on the skin. With eight full fluid ounces, this bottle might last you the entire year when used for handwashing alone.
Product Details: Type: Liquid | Scent: Lavender | Volume: 8 ounces
Best Drugstore
Softsoap Liquid Hand Soap, Fresh Breeze
AMAZON
- It's an affordable option that's dermatologist-tested and widely available at most drugstores.
It's an affordable option that's dermatologist-tested and widely available at most drugstores.
- The scent of this soap may be too strong for those sensitive to fragrances.
The scent of this soap may be too strong for those sensitive to fragrances.
Softsoap Aquarium Series Liquid Hand Soap is an affordable and readily available option at most drugstores. It’s dermatologist-tested, comes in a pack of six, and forms a rich lather that cleanses hands without drying them out.
It's also paraben- and phthalate-free, features a biodegradable formula, and comes in a recyclable bottle. However, it's worth noting that some users have reported that the scent may be too strong for those sensitive to fragrances.
Product Details: Type: Liquid | Scent: Aquarium | Volume: 7.5 ounces
Best Natural
Cleancult Liquid Hand Soap Refill
AMAZON
- It comes in paper-based, 100% recyclable packaging and is made with clean, non-toxic ingredients.
It comes in paper-based, 100% recyclable packaging and is made with clean, non-toxic ingredients.
- It may be too thick for some dispensers, but Cleancult has its own dispenser available for purchase.
It may be too thick for some dispensers, but Cleancult has its own dispenser available for purchase.
Cleancult Liquid Hand Soap is a standout choice among hundreds of all-natural hand soaps. It's made with clean, non-toxic ingredients, packaged in paper to reduce plastic waste, and formulated with aloe vera and essential oils.
Thanks to its commitment to safe and effective ingredients, Cleancult is a great choice for those looking for a natural hand soap.
The company also offers a subscription service for convenient delivery and easy savings on recurring orders.Some users have noted that the soap is too thick and may not easily dispense from certain hand soap dispensers. To fix this, you can purchase the glass and silicone dispenser from Cleancult.
Product Details: Type: Liquid | Scent: Sea Minerals | Volume: 32 ounces
Best Plant-Based
ECOS PRO Hand Soap Free and Clear
AMAZON
- It’s formulated without harsh chemicals, artificial fragrances, or other irritants, making it a good choice for people with even the most sensitive skin.
It’s formulated without harsh chemicals, artificial fragrances, or other irritants, making it a good choice for people with even the most sensitive skin.
- It doesn’t lather and has a thin consistency.
It doesn’t lather and has a thin consistency.
Board-certified dermatologist Anna Chacon recommends finding a hypoallergenic or dermatologist-tested hand soap free of harsh chemicals and fragrances for people with extra sensitive skin.
Ecos Pro liquid hand soap is a good choice, as it's made with sustainable plant-powered ingredients and is formulated without harsh chemicals or artificial fragrances. It's also pH-balanced and made in the United States.
The soap contains vitamin E and antioxidants, which help to nourish and protect the skin. It's free of dyes, optical brighteners, formaldehyde donors, ammonia, chlorine bleach, phthalates, parabens, and phosphates, all of which can irritate sensitive skin.
Some users have reported that the soap does not lather as well as traditional hand soaps, and it has a rather thin consistency.
Product Details: Type: Liquid | Scent: Unscented | Volume: 17 ounces
Best for Dry Skin
O Naturals Goat Milk Soap
AMAZON
- It's made with nourishing goat milk and comes with a natural soap bag for gentle exfoliation.
It's made with nourishing goat milk and comes with a natural soap bag for gentle exfoliation.
- It may make the tub or shower floor slippery if not rinsed thoroughly after use.
It may make the tub or shower floor slippery if not rinsed thoroughly after use.
Licensed advanced esthetician and Oui Beauty founder Kimberly Currie recommends finding a hand soap with gentle, moisturizing ingredients like glycerin, aloe vera, or shea butter for those with dry, sensitive skin.
O Naturals Goat Milk Soap is a good option, as it contains goat milk, coconut oil, olive oil, and shea butter to hydrate and nourish the skin. It comes in a pack of three and includes a natural soap bag for gentle exfoliation.
Just be careful when using the soap in the shower or tub, as it may make surfaces slippery if not rinsed thoroughly after use.
Product Details: Type: Bar | Scent: Goat Milk Soap | Volume: 4 ounces
Best for Eczema
Eczema Honey Gentle Foaming Hand Soap
ECZEMA HONEY
- It's made with organic honey, colloidal oatmeal, aloe vera juice, and essential oils to soothe and hydrate dry, irritated skin without leftover residue.
It's made with organic honey, colloidal oatmeal, aloe vera juice, and essential oils to soothe and hydrate dry, irritated skin without leftover residue.
- This product is harder to find in stores, but you can easily order it online.
This product is harder to find in stores, but you can easily order it online.
If you're looking for a moisturizing hand soap for eczema-prone skin, we recommend Eczema Honey Gentle Foaming Hand Soap.
It's formulated with aloe vera and essential oils to soothe and hydrate dry, irritated skin. The light, gentle foam washes off without residue, leaving your hands feeling smooth and soft.
Eczema Honey Gentle Foaming Hand Soap is also dye-, fragrance-, triclosan-, phthalate-free, and Leaping Bunny Certified cruelty-free. Plus, it contains organic honey and colloidal oatmeal, which are known for their soothing properties on inflamed skin. While it's not widely available in stores, you can easily order it online.
Product Details: Type: Foaming | Scent: Unscented | Volume: 8.4 ounces
Best for Kids
Buff City Soap Mermaid Soap
AMAZON
- It's handmade with natural, plant-based ingredients and fun colors.
It's handmade with natural, plant-based ingredients and fun colors.
- It contains fragrance and may not be suitable for children with sensitive skin or fragrance allergies.
It contains fragrance and may not be suitable for children with sensitive skin or fragrance allergies.
Buff City Soap is a mecca for handmade, natural soap products, and its Mermaid Soap is a great choice for kids. It's bright and colorful, made with natural, plant-based ingredients, and smells like ocean breezes and beautiful meadows. It also lathers well and cleanses little hands effectively.
That said, this soap contains fragrance, so it may not be suitable for children with sensitive skin or fragrance allergies. This bar soap is also a great option for kids because it has no pump, so they can easily wash their hands on their own without struggling to dispense the soap.
Additionally, Buff City Soap hosts in-person events where kids can make their own products, adding a fun and interactive element. Note: Buff City Soap is a smaller brand, so availability may vary depending on your location, but you can always purchase it online.
Product Details: Type: Bar | Scent: Mermaid | Volume: 5.5 ounces
Best Luxury
Diptyque Softening Hand Wash
AMAZON
- It comes in a beautifully engraved glass soap dispenser, and you can buy refill pouches, making it a sustainable and luxurious choice.
It comes in a beautifully engraved glass soap dispenser, and you can buy refill pouches, making it a sustainable and luxurious choice.
- It contains small olive-stone beads, so it may not be suitable for those with sensitive skin or allergies to exfoliants.
It contains small olive-stone beads, so it may not be suitable for those with sensitive skin or allergies to exfoliants.
Diptyque Savon Liquid Softening Hand Wash is a luxurious and sustainable hand soap that offers a spa-like experience at home. It comes in a beautifully engraved glass soap dispenser, and refill pouches are available for purchase, reducing waste from single-use plastic bottles.
Made in France and featuring hints of lavender, rosemary, and honey, this hand wash gently cleanses and exfoliates the hands, leaving a delicate scent. However, it's important to note that the small olive-stone beads may not be suitable for sensitive skin, as they may cause irritation.
Product Details: Type: Liquid | Scent: Lavender, Rosemary, and Honey | Volume: 11.8 ounces
Best Design
C.O. Bigelow Iconic Collection West Village Rose Hand Wash
AMAZON
- It offers luxury without the high price tag.
It offers luxury without the high price tag.
- Its scent may be too strong or overpowering for some people.
Its scent may be too strong or overpowering for some people.
You can always buy your own soap dispenser to spruce up your bathroom, but sometimes it's nice to have a hand soap that comes in a beautifully designed bottle. One option to consider is C.O. Bigelow Iconic Collection West Village Rose Hand Wash.
This hand wash has a delicate rose scent and comes in a vintage-inspired bottle that adds a touch of elegance to any bathroom décor at a reasonable price.
It's also formulated with shea butter, glycerin, and sweet almond protein for a thick, creamy consistency that leaves hands moisturized and soft. While the floral-woodsy fragrance may be pleasant to some, people sensitive to fragrance may find it overpowering.
Product Details: Type: Liquid | Scent: Rose | Volume: 10.5 ounces