Yes, you need biodegradable soap for camping. In fact, it should be on your list of essential camping accessories.
True biodegradable soap is the only soap available that will degrade when it comes into contact with the ground. The soil’s bacteria, the air’s carbon dioxide, and UV rays from the sun break it down entirely in a year or less.
On the other hand, regular soap contains all kinds of chemical compounds—phosphates, triclosan, antibacterial protectants, and surfactants, to name a few—that don’t break down in the environment and cause harm to the ecosystem.
Quick Tip: Read up on How to Shower While Camping and learn When is Camping Season?
Depending on the type of biodegradable soap you get, it can be used for all kinds of outdoor needs, from cleaning yourself to washing your clothes, and camping gear, and when you wash dishes camping. It can even help clean minor wounds suffered along the way as you hike or adventure.
However, there is an important caveat to this advice. No soap, including biodegradable soap, is good to use around water: rivers, lakes, or the sea. This is especially vital when staying at crowded campsites since a build-up of soap can harm the aquatic environment.
How To Safely Use Biodegradable Soap While Camping
It’s crucial to minimize environmental impact when using biodegradable soap in outdoor settings. To prevent contamination, always use away from natural water sources, ideally 200 feet away.
Apply sparingly and choose unscented options to avoid attracting wildlife. Dispose of used water in a hole 6-8 inches deep to allow soil microbes to break down the soap. These practices ensure your camping hygiene needs are met responsibly, protecting the natural environment you enjoy.
Environmental Impact Of Biodegradable Soap
Here are some relevant expert opinions and quotes on the environmental impact of biodegradable soaps:
Hans Sanderson, senior researcher at Aarhus University’s Department of Environmental Science, stated: “The substances [surfactants in soaps] are made so that they degrade rapidly and thus don’t pose a risk to the environment. I can’t think of any other substances released into the environment in such large amounts via everyday use by all of us.”[1]
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends using biodegradable soaps and detergents to reduce water pollution. Their website states: “Biodegradable soaps and detergents are better for the environment because they are made of substances that can be broken down relatively quickly by natural processes.”[2]
David Ellerby, chief scientist at Reviewed.com, emphasizes the importance of biodegradability: “Environmental persistence of harmful chemicals is a major concern. It’s essential that ingredients are biodegradable, so at minimum they shouldn’t survive passage through a wastewater treatment plant or septic system, and if they do they should rapidly break down.”[4]
In summary, environmental experts agree that biodegradable soaps pose minimal risk to the environment compared to non-biodegradable alternatives, as the surfactants and other ingredients can be rapidly broken down by natural processes and wastewater treatment.[1][4]
FAQs
Why is biodegradable soap recommended for camping?
Biodegradable soap is essential for camping because it’s designed to break down naturally when it comes into contact with soil, carbon dioxide, and UV rays, typically within a year or less. Unlike regular soaps, which can contain harmful chemicals like phosphates and triclosan that pollute the environment, biodegradable soap minimizes impact on ecosystems.
Can biodegradable soap be used for purposes other than washing hands?
Yes, biodegradable soap is versatile and can be used for various outdoor cleaning needs, including washing clothes, camping gear, dishes, and even minor wounds. Its eco-friendly formulation makes it suitable for a range of applications while minimizing environmental impact.
Are there any precautions when using biodegradable soap near water bodies?
It’s crucial to avoid using any soap, including biodegradable varieties, directly in or near rivers, lakes, and seas. Soap can accumulate and harm aquatic ecosystems, especially in crowded camping areas. Always use soap at a safe distance from water bodies to protect aquatic life.
Be sure to check out our how to wash a sleeping bag post for more ideas on using biodegradable soap in your home.
And speaking of washing dishes, be sure to download or print a free copy of Camping Food List for some great food ideas as well as camping meal ideas, meal planning tips, and more.
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