DIY Solid Shampoo Bars: 3 Simple Examples

Explore these easy DIY solid shampoo bar recipes for a zero-waste personal care routine.
By Taylor

Introduction to DIY Solid Shampoo Bars

Transitioning to a zero-waste lifestyle can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be! One fantastic way to reduce plastic waste in your personal care routine is by making your own solid shampoo bars. These bars are not only eco-friendly but also customizable to suit your hair type and preferences. Here are three diverse and practical examples of DIY solid shampoo bars to get you started on your sustainable journey.

Example 1: Nourishing Coconut & Olive Oil Shampoo Bar

This solid shampoo bar is perfect for dry or damaged hair. Coconut oil hydrates the hair while olive oil adds shine and nourishment.

Start by gathering the following ingredients:

  • 1 cup of coconut oil
  • 1/2 cup of olive oil
  • 1/2 cup of sodium cocoyl isethionate (a gentle surfactant)
  • 1/4 cup of distilled water
  • Optional: 10-20 drops of your favorite essential oil (like lavender or rosemary)
  1. In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the coconut oil until fully liquid.
  2. Mix in the olive oil and sodium cocoyl isethionate until well combined.
  3. Gradually add distilled water while stirring to avoid lumps.
  4. If using, add essential oils for fragrance.
  5. Pour the mixture into a mold (silicone molds work great!).
  6. Let it cool and harden for 24 hours.
  7. Once solid, pop it out of the mold and it’s ready to use!

Notes: You can substitute olive oil with other oils like avocado or jojoba oil based on your hair needs. To make it more exfoliating, consider adding a tablespoon of ground oats or sugar.

Example 2: Refreshing Citrus & Clay Shampoo Bar

Ideal for oily hair, this shampoo bar uses clay to absorb excess oil and citrus for a refreshing scent.

Ingredients needed:

  • 1 cup of shea butter
  • 1/2 cup of sodium cocoyl isethionate
  • 1/4 cup of kaolin clay (or any natural clay)
  • 1/4 cup of distilled water
  • Zest of one lemon and 10 drops of lemon essential oil
  1. Melt the shea butter in a bowl over a double boiler.
  2. Once melted, remove from heat and mix in sodium cocoyl isethionate and kaolin clay until smooth.
  3. Slowly stir in distilled water, ensuring there are no lumps.
  4. Add lemon zest and essential oil for that zesty fragrance.
  5. Pour into molds and allow to harden for 24 hours.
  6. After it’s set, your refreshing shampoo bar is ready to use!

Notes: You can experiment with other citrus fruits like orange or grapefruit for a different scent. Make sure to patch test to ensure no irritation occurs from the essential oils.

Example 3: Herbal Infused Solid Shampoo Bar

This shampoo bar is great for all hair types, infused with herbs that promote scalp health and hair growth.

To make this bar, gather:

  • 1 cup of beeswax
  • 1/2 cup of coconut oil
  • 1/2 cup of herbal tea (like nettle or chamomile)
  • 1/2 cup of sodium cocoyl isethionate
  • Optional: 10 drops of peppermint essential oil
  1. Brew a strong herbal tea using your chosen herbs and let it cool.
  2. In a separate bowl, melt the beeswax and coconut oil together.
  3. Once melted, stir in sodium cocoyl isethionate until fully combined.
  4. Gradually mix in the cooled herbal tea and essential oils.
  5. Pour into molds and let it cool completely for 24 hours.
  6. Once set, your herbal shampoo bar is ready for use!

Notes: You can customize the herbs based on your hair needs. Rosemary is great for stimulating hair growth, while chamomile is soothing for the scalp.

With these examples of DIY solid shampoo bars, you can take a step towards a more sustainable personal care routine, making your hair care not only effective but also environmentally friendly!