There are two processes used in soap making, i.e. hot process as well as cold process. Commercial soaps are generally manufactured using a hot process technique in which the oils and alkali are heated together to cause saponification (a method where the oils and alkali bind). During the process, the soap products and the glycerin separate. In large commercial soapmaking processes, the glycerin is taken out and sold, and the remaining mixture of soap is then formed into bars or other shapes and sizes. As the soap mixture is heated for such as long time, the oils in the hot process can go sour. So to counter souring, a complete array of chemicals are added in the hot process soaps to increase their shelf life and keep them fresher for a long time. Handmade soap manufacturers generally use the cold process technique of soap production in which the oils are boiled just to the melting temperature and then mixed with an alkali to cause saponification. The mixture is then poured into moulds, cut and cooled off and then cured for about 4 to 5 weeks.

Fragrance oils are a blend of synthetic chemicals that are made to give a specific scent to a product. Essential oils are natural oils, which are extracted from plants, roots, flowers, leaves, bark, seeds, and citrus fruits. No synthetic chemicals are involved and present in essential oils. High quality organic soaps never use fragrance oils and are usually made using quality essential oils for a quality natural finished product.

Liquid detergents are generally better in removing and cleaning greasy stains, while powdered detergents have found to be better at removing dirt, mud and other ground soils.

A variety of choices and products are available in the market to clean effectively. Practically, any soap or detergent can be used for hand dishwashing except an automatic dishwashing detergent. However, the usage of soap for dishwash cleaning has almost become extinct and various all-purpose cleaners or laundry detergents do not deliver optimum results. These products may leave spots and streaks, may not wholly dissolve, and some may even discolor certain metals with soaking. Hence a well-formulated dishwashing detergent product should be preferred for cleaning dishes.

Disinfectants contain anti microbial ingredients, which kill and destroy germs if the surfaces are free from heavy soil. Disinfectant or antibacterial cleaners contain ingredients, which can remove soil, as well as antimicrobial agents that kill germs. Household bleach products disinfect when used as per the directions given on the package.

Antibacterial wash and cleaning products have been used safely by the consumers for over 30 years. The safety and effectiveness of these products is governed and regulated by government authorities.