Mildew soap smell after 3 weeks

I have made goat milk soap using the same oil base recipe. Some batches after three weeks have the scent of the EO that I used on the bar, but once I use the bar my hands are left with a mildew smell. Like a dirty dishcloth. Sometimes, I've used EO sometimes no scent.

I have experienced this with a couple of different soaps. I wanted to know if this could be the curing time. Do I need to let the bars cure longer? It is a distinct smell and it is the same smell with the different batches that it has happened too.

I alway freeze my goat milk too and am very careful not to curdle or scorch the milk, so I don't believe it is that. Also other batches have turned out fine and when I use the bars they don't leave that mildewy smell on my hands. The only difference would be the superfatting oils, like avocado oil. Any insight would be greatly appreciated.

Answer:

Not sure why you would be getting a stale wash cloth smell.

I would recommend taking detailed notes of every batch you make to see if there is a common element to the batches that smell off.

As for the cure time...it is best to let soap cure for at least 4 weeks before use.

Always store your soaps in a cool, dry location as well. Standing the bars on end on drying racks (or cardboard beer/pop flats) allows the air to flow around the bars.

Good luck,
Cathy