Cedarwood Soap

In the 1970s, Rob Costello and Geoff Kerouac grew up in Hebden Bridge, West Yorkshire, surrounded by a vibrant alternative culture. This environment inspired them with radical ideas, political awareness, and a deep connection to nature – values they still hold dear today.

Their time working at Suma Wholefoods Co-operative solidified their belief that running a successful business should prioritise ethics over profit. Motivated and environmentally aware, they embarked on their own ethically-based venture, eager to make a positive impact on the world.

For Rob and Geoff, soap-making is not just about creating a product; it’s a continual process of learning, improving, and minimising their impact on nature and health. Friendly Soap is their commitment to producing cruelty-free and vegan soaps, approved by Cruelty Free International and The Vegan Society.

Using the ancient cold-process method, Friendly Soap creates biodegradable bars with zero waste, poured, cut, stamped, and packed by hand in the UK. They consciously choose natural, biodegradable ingredients, avoiding harmful chemicals and preservatives found in commercial detergents.

Proudly palm oil-free, Friendly Soap believes in protecting rainforests, animals, and the Earth. They source Shea Butter from a women’s worker cooperative in Ghana and ensure that no slave monkeys are used in harvesting their Coconut Oil.

With a dedication to constant improvement, Friendly Soap strives to achieve a zero-impact, sustainable soap and business model that benefits the planet, animals, and people alike.

BRAND CERTIFICATIONS