When I first tried solid shampoo, I really loved it and I wished I had discovered it sooner (think of all the plastic bottles I could have saved from the landfill!?). But I also soon realized that solid shampoo needs a storage solution to protect it from water, otherwise it becomes goopy and messy, and it’s honestly a bit gross (not to mention nearly impossible to travel with).

If you're just starting on your solid shampoo journey, we recommend skipping the saponified oil-based bars. While some people may have success with these types of bars, we found that they can leave a waxy residue on the hair, which can be a turn-off.