Choosing sustainable clothing is one of the most effective ways to reduce the environmental impact of our wardrobes while supporting a more responsible fashion industry. From organic cotton and recycled fibres to ethically produced garments and long-lasting materials, every purchasing decision can contribute to a greener future. As awareness of fast fashion’s environmental and social costs continues to grow, more consumers are looking for practical ways to build wardrobes that reflect their values without sacrificing style or comfort. In this guide, we explore how to identify genuinely sustainable clothing, understand trusted certifications, choose natural materials such as hemp and flax, and avoid the pitfalls of ultra-fast fashion. We also highlight simple habits such as repairing garments, extending the life of existing clothing, and participating in clothing swaps that help reduce textile waste and unnecessary consumption. At Friendly Turtle EcoBlog, we believe sustainable living starts with everyday choices, and fashion is no exception. Whether you are beginning your journey towards a more eco-conscious wardrobe or looking to refine your shopping habits, these practical tips can help you make informed decisions that benefit both people and the planet while creating a more thoughtful and sustainable approach to personal style.
Share your articles with us and get published! Reach out at hello@friendlyturtle.com.
9 Benefits Of Olive Oil Soap And How To Make Your Own
Olive oil is a versatile ingredient with wonderful benefits for your health and skin. While some people use it as a salad dressing, many others use extra virgin olive oil for soap making. That’s right, you can use it to make your own natural soap and get all the benefits of olive oil soap!
Keep reading to discover all the wonderful olive oil soap benefits...as well as our very own recipe so you can learn how to make your own as well.
New to soap making? Try our easy homemade olive oil recipe!
The Incredible Benefits of Olive Oil Soap
Since ancient times, people have been using olive oil soaps to cleanse and nourish the skin. Traditionally, Castile soap was made of 100% olive oil.
Want to know why this ingredient is so popular?

Let’s Check Some Olive Oil Soap Benefits:
- Soften the skin texture
- Moisturise your skin
- Relieves eczema and psoriasis
- Fight free radicals that lead to ageing
- Stimulate the growth of new cells
- Remove makeup without irritating the skin
- Protect the skin from dryness
- Preserve your skin sebum
- Fight bacteria
Does Olive Oil Soap Clog Your Pores?
Olive oil is one of the best natural options to moisturise dry skin. But for those with oily skin, olive oil can clog pores and lead to acne. And that’s because this oil is slightly comedogenic and doesn’t absorb easily into the skin.
The Magic Ingredient for Soap Making: Extra Virgin Olive Oil
Even though you can use any olive oil for soap making, extra virgin olive oil is the best option. Extra virgin olive oil contains fewer chemicals and a higher concentration of vitamins and antioxidants!
Simply put, your skin will get more benefits with this glow-boosting ingredient. That’s why you should use extra virgin olive oil for soap making.

Don’t Miss Our Easy Homemade Olive Oil Soap Recipe
Want to get all the benefits of olive oil soap? Don’t worry, you don’t need to be an expert to dive into the soap making world. Below, you’ll find an easy homemade olive oil soap recipe for beginners, so let’s get started!
Ingredients for Soap Making:
- Extra virgin olive oil (450g)
- Distilled water (104 g)
- Sodium lactate (1 tsp)
- Lye (58g)
Tools:
- Immersion blender
- Kitchen thermometer
- Heat-resistant container
- Mixing bowl
- Safety goggles and mask
- Rubber gloves
- Soap moulds
- Small strainer
- Digital scale
- Measuring spoons
Step-by-step:
Homemade Olive Oil Soap Recipe:
- Wear your goggles, mask, and gloves.
- Measure all the ingredients.
- In a well-ventilated area, pour the water into a heat-resistant container and then slowly add the lye. Mix until the lye dissolves. Next, strain the solution to catch any undissolved crystals. And don’t forget to keep your face away from the steam that comes up!
- When the lye solution has cooled to 130 ºF / 54 ºC, add the sodium lactate and mix well.
- Heat the extra virgin olive oil until it reaches about 100 ºF / 38 ºC.
- When both the oil and the lye water are within 5 degrees of each other, you can mix them. Slowly add the lye water to the oil.
- Use an immersion blender to mix the solution and bring it to “trace”. With this homemade olive oil soap recipe, it should take you about 5-10 minutes to reach a custard-like consistency.
- Pour your mixture into the moulds.
- Wait 3-4 days to allow your 100% olive oil soaps to harden.
- Unmould your natural soaps and allow them to cure for 2-3 months before using!
Have some fun with this easy homemade olive oil soap recipe and don’t forget to use extra virgin olive oil for soap making. Pamper your skin and get all the benefits of olive oil soap!
Not such a fan of the DIY approach? No worries, we also stock a wonderful range of vegan soap bars also made with the wonders of olive oil. Worth checking out if you're now sold on the idea ;)
2 comments
I have used homemade olive oil soap and want to make myself! Love it!

Chery – March 28, 2025
Best olive oil for skin