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Soap-on-a-Rope is the Greatest Thing Since Sliced Bread

By Katie Dickens Oct 5, 2015 2:00 PM

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While salacious rumors have been started about the much maligned soap-on-a-rope, it’s origin story is actually pretty virtuous. The first tethered bar was invented purely for functional purposes: Okay, it was to prevent the user from dropping said soap but also to keep it fairly dry so it didn’t dissolve into a soggy blob. So anyway this smart British company came up with a way to keep the soap fairly dry and solid. Since then it’s become a bit of a kitschy novelty, but consider the seriously useful application of the attached cord before you judge. Most importantly, it’s a money saver as the soap will most certainly last longer. Then there’s also the cleanliness factor (as its not sitting in standing water and won’t leave a trail of scum on the ledge). And of course, by wearing it on your wrist, there is no danger of dropping it. Here are five of the best bars, both (really, really) old and new.

The Art of Shaving Vetiver Soap on a Rope

$25, artofshaving.com — $25, artofshaving.com Image used with permission by copyright holder

Get this limited-edition soap while you still can. Besides the fact that this giant bar will still BE around for a while, it’s other pluses include an incredible Vetiver scent and moisturizing formula.

Jack Black Turbo Body Bar Scrubbing Soap

$15, getjackblack.com — $15, getjackblack.com Image used with permission by copyright holder

It’s soap! It’s a scrub! It’s on a rope! The already super popular Turbo Body Bar has somehow been made even better now that it can hang. Besides getting you squeaky clean, there is natural lava rock to scrub away all OF your tough bits.

Musgo Real Soap on a Rope

$12.50, beautyhabit.com — $12.50, beautyhabit.com Image used with permission by copyright holder

This has been around since 1887 so its staying power alone is a good indicator that it’s pretty great. The soap includes the ingredient du jour, coconut oil, which makes it both moisturizing and antibacterial.

Byrd Soap on a Rope

$16, birchbox.com — $16, birchbox.com Image used with permission by copyright holder

For the minimalist, this multi-tasking option can be used to clean your hair, face and body. And its subtle coconut-y smell will make your bathroom smell of the tropics. Always nice on a chilly fall day.

D.R. Harris Almond Soap on a Rope

$25, mrporter.com — $25, mrporter.com Image used with permission by copyright holder

Smelling of a fine English gentleman who wears bespoke Savile Row suits (that’s rose and clove if you must know), this soap won’t pass judgment if you prefer Chucks and off-the-rack jeans. Because it’s an inanimate object. It will keep your skin smooth and moisturized just the same.

Katie Dickens is a Manhattan-based beauty and grooming writer. She has held staff positions at Glamour, In Style, People… Read Full Bio

Topics

Shaving

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A deeply personal experience