How to Store Body Products for Longer Without Any Preservatives!

If you are making soaps, bath salts, butters and balms, bombs, butter bars etc you do not need to use a preservative. A general rule of thumb is if you product is anhydrous (without water) then you do not need to use a preservative.

It is important to remember your products are not going to stay as fresh as commercial products so making them in small batches is the better way to go. As with all products each has a different shelf life so putting a best before date on your formulations would be wise. Six months is plenty of time in which to use your products. Hopefully they will be so wonderful you and your customers will use them well within this time and return for more. It is also a huge selling point to say your products are completely natural and preservative free.

There is not really anything that can be termed a natural preservative. The closest is vitamin E but that only preserves the oils in formulations.

The best way to keep your products fresh and germ free is to:

• Store them in a dark cool place.
• Store them in air tight packaging.
• Make sure you work area is sterile and clean.
• Keep your hands regularly washed and clean.
• Use spatulas and spoons to handle your products specifically the end product. This will prevent contamination from fingers and hands.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do handmade products need a preservative?

Anhydrous products, meaning those made without water such as balms, butters, bath bombs and soaps, generally do not need a preservative. Preservatives become important once water is present, as that is what allows germs to grow.

How long will preservative free products last?

Handmade products will not stay as fresh as commercial ones, so around six months is a sensible shelf life to work with. Making small batches and adding a best before date to your formulations helps you use them while they are at their best.

Is there such a thing as a natural preservative?

Not really in the true sense. The closest option is vitamin E, but it only helps preserve the oils in a formulation rather than protecting the whole product from germs, so it is not a substitute for a proper preservative in water based products.

How should I store handmade products to keep them fresh?

Store them in airtight packaging in a cool, dark place away from heat and light. This helps slow down changes to the oils and keeps the product in good condition for longer.

How can I avoid contaminating my products?

Keep your work area clean and sterile, wash your hands regularly, and use clean spatulas or spoons rather than your fingers when handling the finished product. This helps prevent contamination and keeps your batches safe to use.