FAQ
Ella's Soapbox – Customer FAQ
1. Is your soap safe for sensitive skin or skin conditions like eczema?
Our soaps are made with only organic oils and natural clays — no synthetic fragrances, parabens, or harsh chemicals that commonly trigger reactions. That said, we always recommend patch-testing any new skincare product, especially if you have a diagnosed skin condition. If you have questions about specific ingredients, we're happy to help — just reach out at erin@ellassoapbox.com.
2. How long will it take to get my order?
Most orders ship within 3–5 business days! We keep inventory on hand so you don't have to wait. The only exception is large wholesale orders, which may take up to 6 weeks if we need to make and cure a fresh batch of soap. You'll receive a confirmation email with tracking once your order is on its way.
3. Why is handmade soap more expensive than store-bought soap?
Mass-produced soaps are made with synthetic detergents and fillers. Ours are crafted using certified organic oils, natural clays, and real botanicals — handmade in small batches right here in Saint Joseph, Michigan. You're also supporting anencephaly research and pregnancy/infant loss organizations with every purchase. That's a lot more than your average bar of soap can say.
4. What does "vegan" mean for skincare? Is it also cruelty-free?
Yes to both! Vegan means we use zero animal-derived ingredients — no beeswax, no honey, no lanolin. Cruelty-free means we never test on animals. Every Ella's Soapbox product is 100% both.
5. What is your return policy?
Your satisfaction matters deeply to us. If something isn't right with your order, please reach out to us at erin@ellassoapbox.com and we'll make it right. We stand behind every product we make.
6. How do I know your ingredients are actually organic?
We source certified organic oils and waxes for all of our products. While Ella's Soapbox isn't USDA-certified organic (the process of saponification is fat and oil molecules combining with lye molecules to create an entirely new soap molecule. The process is inherently not organic), we are fully transparent about every ingredient we use. Have a question about a specific product or ingredient? Just ask — we love talking about what goes into our products.
7. How long will a handmade soap bar last?
A properly cured handmade soap bar typically lasts 4–6 weeks with daily use — often longer than commercial bars because they're denser and don't contain water-inflating fillers. To extend the life of your bar, keep it on a well-draining soap dish between uses.
8. What is the story behind Ella's Soapbox?
Ella's Soapbox was founded in memory of Ella Marie, and 10% of every dollar of profit goes directly to anencephaly research and pregnancy/infant loss support organizations — including Now I Lay Me Down to Sleep, March of Dimes, and others. This isn't a marketing strategy. It's the reason this business exists. Every product you buy is part of something bigger.
9. Can I buy Ella's Soapbox products as a gift?
Absolutely — our products make beautiful, meaningful gifts! If you'd like a handwritten gift note included with your order, just leave a note at checkout or send us an email at erin@ellassoapbox.com and we'll take care of it.
10. Can I subscribe so I never run out of my favorites?
Yes! We offer monthly and quarterly subscription boxes so your favorite products arrive on a schedule that works for you. It's also a wonderful way to discover new products as they're released. Check out our subscription options on the website!
Have a question that isn't answered here? Reach out at erin@ellassoapbox.com — we'd love to hear from you.