There is something special about a bar of soap that has been thoughtfully made rather than simply produced.

Cold process soap is one of the traditional methods of soap making, and it remains at the heart of Heyland & Whittle.

What does cold process mean?

Cold process soap is made by combining oils and butters with an alkali solution.

This creates a chemical reaction called saponification, which transforms the oils into soap.

Unlike melt-and-pour soap, the maker isn't starting with an already-made soap base.

The recipe is formulated from the beginning.

Why does formulation matter?

Every oil and butter brings different characteristics to a soap recipe.

The balance of ingredients can influence the finished bar's hardness, lather, feel and conditioning qualities.

Botanicals, herbs, spices, seeds and essential oils can then be selected to create the individual character of the recipe.

Why does handmade soap take time?

Traditional soap making cannot simply be rushed.

After the soap is made and moulded, it needs time to cure.

During curing, water continues to evaporate and the bar becomes firmer.

This patience is part of the craft.

Why we still make soap traditionally

Heyland & Whittle began in a small barn in the Surrey Hills in 2003.

From the beginning, the brand has focused on traditional methods and natural ingredients.

That philosophy remains central to our soap collection today.

Our cold-process bars are created around different botanical stories, from lavender and herbs to oats, seeds and charcoal.

The beauty of traditional soap

Cold process soap connects an everyday product with the craft behind it.

It is slower.

It is more considered.

And it gives every recipe its own identity.

For us, that's what makes a bar of soap more than simply something you wash with.

It becomes part of the ritual.

Discover our handmade soap collection