Mrs. Meyer’s Clean Day hand soaps have gained a loyal following for their plant-derived ingredients and garden-inspired scents. If you’re someone who appreciates a little aromatherapy with your everyday handwashing, these soaps offer an enticing mix of fragrances that transform a mundane task into something enjoyable.
Each scent is crafted with natural essential oils, making them earth-friendly and biodegradable. Some are sweet and floral, others are more grounded and herbal, and then there are seasonal favorites that bring a festive twist! With such a wide variety available, finding a favorite can be a fun challenge.
As someone who has lathered up with almost every scent, I’ve put together my personal ranking of the top six Mrs. Meyer’s hand soap scents. This list highlights what makes each scent stand out, along with some honest thoughts on their strengths and potential drawbacks. Whether you prefer fresh, herbal, floral, or woodsy aromas, there’s likely a scent for you!
Let’s dive in.
1. Basil
My absolute favorite Mrs. Meyer’s scent is Basil. It’s herbal, slightly peppery, and refreshingly clean—unlike any other hand soap fragrance I’ve encountered.
Why I Love It:
- Unique and Sophisticated – This scent doesn’t fit the typical soap profile; it’s earthy, fresh, and modern.
- Perfect for the Kitchen – If you enjoy cooking with fresh herbs, this scent will feel right at home.
- Not Too Sweet or Floral – Great for those who dislike overly sweet or floral fragrances.
- Has a Slightly Masculine Lean – While not overpowering, the grounded herbal notes make it more gender-neutral.
Potential Downsides:
- A “Love It or Hate It” Scent – Some people find the basil note too sharp or unusual for a hand soap.
- Doesn’t Linger for Long – The fragrance fades relatively quickly after washing compared to some other scents.
If you’re looking for a clean, garden-fresh scent that’s a little different from the norm, Basil is a great pick.
2. Lemon Verbena
Coming in at number two is Lemon Verbena, a bright, citrusy, and energizing scent that instantly lifts my mood.
Why I Love It:
- Smells Super Clean – Citrus scents are often associated with cleanliness, and this one is no exception.
- Great for the Kitchen – It helps neutralize strong food smells, making it a staple by my sink.
- Long-Lasting – The lemony freshness sticks around on your hands for a while.
- Might Even Repel Bugs – Some users claim its citrus notes help keep summer pests away (though it’s not a bug spray!).
Potential Downsides:
- Very Strong – If you prefer subtle scents, this might be too overpowering.
- Sharp Citrus Edge – Some find the lemon note a bit too zesty or intense.
This scent is invigorating, fresh, and perfect for morning handwashing when you need a little wake-up call.
3. Lavender
Lavender takes my third spot because of its classic, calming, and herbal aroma.
Why I Love It:
- Relaxing and Soothing – It has an instant spa-like quality that makes handwashing feel luxurious.
- Universally Appealing – Lavender is a well-loved scent that’s not too feminine or masculine.
- Great for Nighttime Use – I love using it before bed because it helps create a calming routine.
- Good for Households with Babies – Since it’s gentle and natural-smelling, it’s often a great choice for nurseries or homes with little ones.
Potential Downsides:
- Moderate Longevity – The scent fades quicker than some of the stronger options.
- Traditional Smell – If you’re looking for something unique, this might not excite you.
Overall, Lavender is a safe, relaxing choice that works well in guest bathrooms and before winding down for the night.
4. Iowa Pine
Iowa Pine lands in my fourth spot because of its crisp, woodsy, and holiday-inspired scent.
Why I Love It:
- Smells Like a Fresh-Cut Christmas Tree – If you love that pine-fresh scent, you’ll adore this soap.
- Great for Winter – It makes washing your hands feel extra cozy during the colder months.
- Masculine-Leaning but Universal – While it has a slightly earthy, outdoorsy feel, it’s not overwhelmingly masculine.
- Excellent for Neutralizing Odors – Some users prefer it for utility rooms or garages since it helps combat strong smells.
Potential Downsides:
- Very Seasonal – It feels out of place in summer; I only use it during the colder months.
- Strong Scent – Some people might find the pine note too intense.
If you want a woodsy, invigorating soap that makes you feel like you’re in a forest cabin, Iowa Pine is a great choice.
5. Honeysuckle
Honeysuckle earns the fifth spot on my list for its sweet, floral, and nectar-like aroma.
Why I Love It:
- Incredibly Sweet and Floral – If you love bold floral scents, this one is for you.
- Cheerful and Nostalgic – Reminds me of warm summer days and blooming gardens.
- Long-Lasting – The scent sticks around longer than some of the lighter florals.
Potential Downsides:
- Very Sweet – If you prefer fresh or subtle scents, this might feel too sugary.
- Might Attract Bugs Outdoors – Some users say the nectar-like scent can attract bees when used outside.
If you enjoy rich, floral fragrances with a hint of sweetness, Honeysuckle is a beautiful and uplifting option.
6. Peony
Last but not least, Peony makes my list because of its delicate, fresh, and elegant floral aroma.
Why I Love It:
- Light and Airy – A more subtle floral scent compared to Honeysuckle.
- Refined and Sophisticated – Smells like fresh-cut peonies, making it feel elegant.
- Great for Workplaces or Guest Bathrooms – Its soft, inoffensive nature makes it a safe choice for shared spaces.
Potential Downsides:
- Too Subtle for Some – If you prefer stronger scents, Peony might be too faint.
- Short-Lived Fragrance – The scent fades quicker than more intense florals.
Peony is a great pick if you’re looking for a gentle, fresh floral scent that isn’t too overpowering.
Concluding Thoughts
After trying nearly all of Mrs. Meyer’s hand soaps, I keep coming back to Basil, Lemon Verbena, and Lavender as my top three picks. Each scent brings something unique to the table, from herbal freshness to energizing citrus and calming florals.
Ultimately, the best scent depends on your personal preferences. If you love kitchen-friendly, clean fragrances, go for Basil or Lemon Verbena. If you want something relaxing and classic, Lavender is a solid choice. And if you love floral, romantic scents, Honeysuckle or Peony might be perfect for you.
Whatever you choose, Mrs. Meyer’s hand soaps make handwashing a little more delightful!
