The Surprising Uses of Castile Soap (And How to Dilute It)

Whether you’re new to castile soap or are just looking for some ideas on how to use it, we’ve got you covered!  Castile soap is a tried-and-true household essential that you’ll reach for again and again once you know how to properly use it.

The uses of castile soap are almost endless, which is why this cleaner has been a popular choice for generations (and why we’re so excited to now offer Lehman’s own castile soap!)

Frequently Asked Questions

What exactly is Castile Soap?

This might seem like a basic question, but it was one I asked myself just a couple of months ago when I was first introduced to this amazing soap.  In fact, I was so new to castile soap, I pronounced it wrong. (Helpful Hint: It’s pronounced ka-steel.)

The first thing to know about castile soap is that it is plant based. This means there are no animal fats or oils used in this soap.  

It’s also hypoallergenic. Natural castile soap contains no synthetic detergents or preservatives to irritate your skin – NO parabens, sulfates or phthalates.

In fact, Lehman’s Concentrated Castile Soap is made with pure honey and natural oils, like olive, coconut, sunflower and jojoba. 

(Click here to find the full list of ingredients.)

Why use Castile Soap?

It’s gentle.

I’ve already mentioned it’s made with natural ingredients and no synthetic detergents so it’s gentle on you, but it’s also gentle to the environment. Lehman’s Castile Soap contains ingredients that are renewable and biodegradable.

Another big perk is it’s long-lasting.  A little bit of concentrated castile soap goes a long way, which helps you save money and reduce waste. For most uses, you’ll only need a few drops.

And last (but certainly not least!), there are so many ways to use castile soap! From washing dishes and laundry to washing your face and hair, this soap is truly a workhorse.

Does Castile Soap need to be diluted?

If you’re using concentrated castile soap, yes – you’ll need to dilute it before using. This allows versatile use, and a little bit goes a long way!

Check out Lehman’s exclusive concentrated soap.

(Psst – Don’t want to deal with diluting your soap?  We also offer already-diluted castile soaps that are ready to use as is. Just remember that these soaps aren’t multiuse like the concentrated version. They’re already diluted for specific uses, like Lehman’s foaming hand soap or body wash.)

Can you use Castile Soap for laundry?

Yes, you sure can!  This is why castile soap is a popular choice for camping and backpacking.  All you need is one soap for your entire trip. Use it to wash your clothes, your dishes, your hands, your face, even your hair (if it’s not color-treated). This saves space in your backpack, too.

How to Dilute Castile Soap

Here are some ideas on how to use Lehman’s Concentrated Castile Soap with dilution recommendations below.

1. All-Purpose Cleaner

If you’re trying to limit (or maybe even eliminate entirely) bringing harsh, chemical-filled cleaners into your home, this is a great solution.  You can even put it in a spray bottle for easy use.

Dilution: Mix 1 part castile soap with 10 parts water

(As with any cleaner used for the first time, test in a small spot on surface first before fully using.)

2. Dish Soap

At home or at the campsite, you can use this soap for hand washing your dishes.

Dilution: Add a few drops of castile soap to a sponge or dishcloth. Wash dishes by hand as usual. You can also add a few drops of vinegar to the dishwater to help cut the grease and grime.

3. Fruit and Vegetable Wash

Scrub your produce with this gentle wash. Make sure you rinse well after washing.

Dilution: Fill your sink with water and add 1/4 teaspoon of castile soap. Swish the produce around in the water to remove dirt, then rinse the water.

4. Hand and Face Soap

All you need is one soap to wash up.

Dilution for Hand Soap: In a soap dispenser bottle, combine 1/2 cup castile soap and 1/2 cup water. Optional – Add 1 tablespoon of Vitamin E oil for great moisturization.

Dilution for Face Soap: You can just put a small drop of castile soap on a washcloth and use with water.

5. Mild Baby Wash

So gentle, you can use this soap on baby.

Dilution: Mix 1 part castile soap with 4 parts purified water. Make sure to keep the soap mixture away from baby’s eyes.

6. Bathroom Cleaner

Get a sparkling clean with this natural cleaner.

Dilution for Toilets: Mix 1 part castile soap with 4 parts water. Add 1/4 teaspoon tea tree oil.

Dilution for Mopping Tile and Wood Floors: Mix about 2 tablespoons in a gallon bucket of water. Do not soak floors, especially wood. Wring out excess water before mopping.

7. Laundry Soap

Fresh, clean clothes? Yes, please! Try this simple liquid laundry soap mix.

Instructions: For a regular washer, use up to 1/2 cup of castile soap. Smaller loads will require less. Make sure to add about 1/2 cup of vinegar to the rinse cycle (less for smaller loads). This will help cut any residue.

8. Shampoo

Use up to 1/2 tablespoon of castile soap. If you have short hair, all you need is a couple drops. Rinse hair with diluted apple cider vinegar. (Do not use castile soap if you have color-treated hair.)

How do you use castile soap? Share in the comments below!