Hand soap is one of those everyday essentials that we often don’t think much about until we find one that stands out. I’ve tried my fair share of liquid hand soaps, and Mrs. Meyer’s Hand Soap caught my attention with its plant-based ingredients, botanical scents, and eco-friendly approach. But does it live up to the hype? In this review, I’ll share my honest experience with the soap, covering everything from packaging and scent to its effectiveness and value for money. While I appreciate many aspects of this product, I’ll also highlight some drawbacks so you can decide if it’s the right choice for you.

Table of Contents
Packaging
One of the first things that stood out to me about Mrs. Meyer’s Hand Soap is its simple yet attractive packaging. The bottles are made from recyclable plastic, which aligns with the brand’s eco-conscious mission. The design is clean and recognizable, featuring botanical illustrations that reflect the soap’s garden-inspired scents.
Functionally, the pump dispenser makes it easy to use and provides a good amount of soap without waste. The semi-transparent bottle is a nice touch, allowing you to see how much product is left. The soap comes in various sizes, including standard 12.5 fl oz bottles and larger refill sizes, which help reduce plastic waste. Refilling from larger bottles is reasonably easy, making it a practical choice for sustainability-conscious consumers.
Ingredients
Mrs. Meyer’s emphasizes plant-derived ingredients, which is a big selling point for many consumers looking for a more natural option. The formula includes essential oils, aloe vera, olive oil, and glycerin, making it gentle and moisturizing. It’s also paraben-free and Leaping Bunny certified, meaning it’s not tested on animals.
However, while the soap highlights natural elements, it’s not entirely free from synthetic ingredients. Some preservatives and fragrance additives are included to maintain product stability and enhance the scent. While most people won’t have an issue with this, those with highly sensitive skin may want to check the ingredient list carefully. The pH-balanced formula is designed to be gentle, but it is not explicitly labeled as hypoallergenic.
Scent
Mrs. Meyer’s Hand Soap is known for its scents, which are inspired by gardens and natural botanicals. Some of the most popular scents include Lavender, Lemon Verbena, Geranium, and Basil. My personal favorite is Basil, which has a fresh, slightly sweet, and herbal aroma that I find both invigorating and unique.

The scent strength is moderate – noticeable but not overpowering. Unlike some artificial-smelling hand soaps, these scents feel more natural and sophisticated. They also linger on the skin for a short time after washing, providing a pleasant but not overwhelming after-effect. If you’re sensitive to fragrances, I recommend testing the scent in-store before committing to a full bottle. Many stores offer scent testers, which can help in making a choice.
Lather and Application
One of my favorite aspects of this soap is its rich, foamy lather. With just a single pump, it produces a good amount of bubbles that spread easily across the skin. The soap has a smooth, medium viscosity – not too thick and not too runny – making it easy to dispense and apply.
It rinses cleanly without leaving behind a sticky or filmy residue, which is important for frequent use. The pump design ensures controlled dispensing, meaning you don’t end up wasting excess soap. Overall, the application experience is smooth and enjoyable.
Effectiveness
A hand soap’s primary job is to clean hands effectively, and in this regard, Mrs. Meyer’s performs well. It removes dirt and everyday grime with ease, leaving hands feeling fresh and soft. The moisturizing ingredients help prevent excessive dryness, which is especially beneficial if you wash your hands frequently.
That said, if you need something for heavy-duty cleaning (like after gardening or cooking with strong-smelling ingredients), this soap might not be as powerful as antibacterial or industrial-strength options. Also, while it contains moisturizing ingredients, those with very sensitive skin may still experience some irritation due to the added fragrance.
Size and Lifespan
Mrs. Meyer’s Hand Soap comes in multiple size options, with the standard bottle being 12.5 fl oz (370 ml). If you go through soap quickly, you might appreciate the 33 fl oz refill bottles, which offer a more economical and eco-friendly choice.
In terms of longevity, a single bottle lasts a reasonable amount of time, depending on household usage. The pump dispenser helps control portions, preventing unnecessary waste. Travel-sized versions are also available, making it easy to take your favorite scent on the go. The soap should be stored at room temperature to maintain quality.
Brand Reputation
Mrs. Meyer’s is a well-known brand owned by S.C. Johnson & Son, Inc., a company recognized for its household cleaning products. The brand promotes a garden-inspired, aromatherapeutic approach and is committed to using thoughtfully chosen ingredients.
The brand enjoys positive customer reviews, particularly for its pleasant scents and effective cleaning performance. It is Leaping Bunny certified, ensuring no animal testing, and places emphasis on recyclable packaging and sustainable practices. Mrs. Meyer’s also engages with its community online, maintaining an active presence on social media.
Price and Value
Mrs. Meyer’s Hand Soap is considered a mid-range hand soap, typically priced between $3-$5 per standard bottle. While it is more expensive than basic grocery store brands, the quality of ingredients, unique scents, and branding justify the cost for many users.
The larger refill sizes provide better value, reducing both cost and plastic waste over time. Frequent discounts and sales can also make purchasing more budget-friendly. Some online retailers offer subscription options, providing cost savings and convenience for regular buyers.
Availability
One of the best aspects of Mrs. Meyer’s Hand Soap is its widespread availability. You can find it in major supermarkets, drugstores, and home goods stores across the U.S. It’s also sold through online retailers like Amazon, Target, and Walmart, with subscription options for added convenience.
Limited edition or seasonal scents can sometimes sell out quickly, so if you have a favorite, it’s worth stocking up when available. Free shipping is often available for larger orders on the brand’s website.
REASONS TO BUY
- Plant-derived formula with moisturizing ingredients
- Pleasant, garden-inspired scents
- Rich, foamy lather
- Gentle and effective for everyday use
- Recyclable packaging and refill options
- Widely available in stores and online
- Leaping Bunny certified (no animal testing)
REASONS TO AVOID
- Higher price point compared to basic hand soaps
- Not 100% natural (contains some synthetic ingredients and preservatives)
- Fragrances may irritate very sensitive skin
- Not as strong for deep cleaning or heavy-duty grime
Overall Rating
After using Mrs. Meyer’s Hand Soap for a while, I can confidently say it’s one of my favorite hand soaps for everyday use. The high-quality ingredients, moisturizing properties, and beautiful scents make it a great addition to any sink. While it’s not perfect—especially for those with fragrance sensitivities or budget concerns—I believe it strikes a great balance between natural inspiration and practical performance.
Final Score: 8.5/10.
If you love botanical scents and a gentle formula, this is definitely worth trying!