Ivory Gentle Bar Soap has long been known for its iconic claim: it floats. This unique feature used to set it apart from other soaps, and I remember as a child being delighted to watch the bar bobbing gently in the water during bath time. It added a touch of magic to an otherwise mundane activity. However, in recent years, I’ve noticed that newer bars often sink, likely due to changes in the formula. This change, while minor, feels like a loss of a nostalgic and fun feature that made Ivory truly memorable. Despite this, the soap continues to deliver in other key areas.

Packaging
Ivory’s packaging is as straightforward as the product itself. Made from recyclable, paper-based material, it’s an eco-friendlier alternative to plastic-heavy options. The simple design features the recognizable Ivory logo, making it easy to spot on store shelves. Each bar is securely wrapped, with clear labeling for ingredients and usage instructions.
While I appreciate the sustainable approach, the opaque packaging means you can’t see the soap before purchasing. The classic white bar and smooth texture are constants, but a more modern or eye-catching design could make it stand out to today’s consumers.
Ingredients
Ivory Gentle Bar Soap balances simplicity with practicality. Its formula includes a mix of natural and synthetic components, like glycerin for moisturizing and cleansing agents such as sodium tallowate, sodium palmate, and sodium cocoate. These ingredients are effective but may irritate sensitive skin in some cases.
The soap’s claim of being “99.44% pure” sounds impressive, but the specifics of this purity aren’t entirely clear. It’s not hypoallergenic and doesn’t cater to specific skin concerns, which might deter some buyers. Additionally, the use of synthetic fragrances and limited transparency about ingredient sourcing could be improved to appeal to those seeking natural or eco-conscious products.
Scent
The Original Scent is a signature feature of Ivory. It’s mild, clean, and universally appealing. For me, it evokes the comforting aroma of sun-dried sheets on a warm summer day. Others describe it as reminiscent of baby powder or freshly laundered clothes. The scent’s simplicity and nostalgia are part of its charm, offering a sense of purity without overwhelming the senses.
However, the scent isn’t particularly long-lasting, which could be a drawback for those who prefer soaps with lingering fragrances. On the bright side, its subtlety makes it suitable for people with sensitivities to strong perfumes and those looking for a unisex scent that works in any season.
Effectiveness
Ivory delivers on its promise of simplicity and performance. It creates a rich lather quickly and effectively removes dirt and impurities. I’ve found it easy to rinse off, leaving no residue behind. However, despite being marketed as gentle, it can feel drying, especially for those with dry or sensitive skin. Pairing it with a moisturizer afterward is a good idea.

One of the soap’s strengths is its versatility. Beyond personal care, it’s great for tasks like washing delicate clothing or cleaning makeup brushes. Although it lacks exfoliating properties and isn’t labeled as non-comedogenic, its multi-purpose nature makes it a practical household staple.
Size and Lifespan
Each standard Ivory bar weighs 3.17 ounces (90 grams), a size that’s easy to handle and store. The bar’s durability is commendable; its relatively hard texture helps it last longer compared to softer soaps. In my experience, a single bar can last several weeks if stored properly in a cool, dry place.
That said, repeated drops can cause the bar to crack or break over time. While travel-sized versions aren’t commonly available, Ivory’s economical pricing and longevity make it a solid choice for regular use. The biodegradable formula is another plus, though Ivory doesn’t heavily promote this feature.
Brand Reputation
Ivory has a rich history dating back to 1879, earning it a reputation as a classic American brand. It’s widely recognized for its simplicity, affordability, and nostalgic appeal. Many people, including myself, associate it with childhood memories or family traditions.
However, the brand could improve its transparency, particularly regarding ingredient sourcing, environmental impact, and sustainability practices. While Procter & Gamble—Ivory’s parent company—has various social responsibility initiatives, it’s unclear how these apply to the Ivory product line specifically.
Price and Value
Ivory Gentle Bar Soap is incredibly affordable, typically costing less than $2 per bar. It’s often sold in multi-packs, which further reduce the cost per unit. Personally, I’ve found it convenient to pick up at my local grocery store or purchase in bulk online from retailers like Amazon, where promotions and discounts make it even more budget-friendly.
For its price, the soap offers great value. While it may lack the luxurious feel of more expensive options, its effectiveness and versatility make it a reliable choice for everyday use. That said, individuals with specific skin needs might find greater value in products tailored to their concerns.
Availability
Ivory Gentle Bar Soap is widely available both in stores and online. You can find it at major retailers like Target, Walmart, and Amazon, as well as in local grocery and drugstores. Manufactured in the USA, it’s a dependable product that’s easy to source.
Bulk purchasing options and frequent sales add to its accessibility. Whether shopping in person or online, I’ve never struggled to find Ivory. However, some specialty stores focusing on niche or luxury bath products might not carry it.
- Affordable and widely available
- Produces a rich, quick-lathering foam
- Mild and nostalgic Original Scent
- Multi-purpose use for personal and household cleaning
- Eco-friendly recyclable packaging
- Can be drying for some skin types
- Lack of transparency about ingredient sourcing
- Sinks instead of floating (in some cases)
- Limited suitability for specific skin concerns
- Not hypoallergenic
Overall Rating
Ivory Gentle Bar Soap (Original Scent) remains a classic choice for its affordability, simplicity, and nostalgic charm. While it’s not the perfect soap for everyone, it performs well for general cleansing needs. I’d rate it 3.5 out of 5 stars. It’s a dependable, no-frills option, but there’s room for improvement in moisturizing properties, ingredient transparency, and sustainability.