Features

• Both foam and liquid soap are effective cleansers, but liquid soap is more concentrated than foam soap.
  
  

Uses

• Foam soap is most commonly used for handwashing. Liquid soap may be used for personal hygiene as well as dishwashing and other household cleaning applications.
  
  

Types

• Both soaps may contain antibacterial or antimicrobial additives, as well as perfumes and moisturizers.
  
  

History

• The earliest soaps were solid in form, such as bar soaps. Liquid soaps for handwashing were not invented until the 1970s. Foam soaps did not gain in popularity until the 21st century.
  
  

Benefits

• Foam soap is considered by some to be more environmentally friendly than liquid soap because its thinner consistency is less likely to clog drains.
  
  

Considerations

• Foam soap dispensers are sold by a number of manufacturers. To make your own foam soap, simply use a solution of 1 part liquid soap to 5 parts water. Mix thoroughly, then fill your dispenser. If you would like to cut down on environmental waste, buy liquid soap in large jug form, and refill your dispenser as indicated above. This is much cheaper and "greener" than buying new containers of foam or liquid soap regularly.