Nashville's "Natural" Soap: Summer Heat Breeding Mites?

By Franklin Everett Shaw

March 27, 2026

The air in Nashville hangs thick and heavy in July, a blanket of humidity that clings to everything. It’s the kind of weather that makes you want to do nothing but sit on a porch swing with a glass of sweet tea. But for those of us who craft our own natural soaps, it’s a battleground. This humidity isn’t just uncomfortable; it’s a breeding ground for problems, especially when it comes to those pesky mites that can turn a beautiful bar of soap into an itchy nightmare.

Let’s talk about mites and your natural soap, specifically in the context of Nashville’s unique climate.

Mites, microscopic arachnids, thrive in warm, humid environments. Nashville in the summer? Prime mite real estate. They feed on organic matter, and unfortunately, your natural soap, with its nourishing oils and butters, is a buffet. These aren’t the same mites that cause scabies, but they can still cause skin irritation, especially for those with sensitive skin.

So, how do you know if your soap has been invaded? Look for these telltale signs:

Tiny, moving specks: This is the most obvious sign. Use a magnifying glass if needed.
A dusty or powdery residue: Mite droppings can leave a fine layer of dust on the soap’s surface.
Increased skin irritation: If you’re suddenly experiencing itching or redness after using your soap, mites could be the culprit.
A change in the soap’s texture: The soap might become crumbly or develop small holes.

Now, let’s get to the prevention. This is where proper storage becomes crucial, especially in Nashville’s humid climate.

Keep your soap dry: This is the golden rule. After each use, store your soap in a well-draining soap dish away from direct water spray. Consider using a soap saver, a small, porous platform that elevates the soap and allows air to circulate.
Control the humidity: If possible, store your soaps in a cool, dry place. A dehumidifier in your bathroom can make a big difference, especially during the summer months.
Wrap unused soaps: If you have a stockpile of soaps, wrap them individually in airtight containers or plastic wrap. This will prevent mites from accessing them.
Rotate your stock: Use older soaps first. The longer a soap sits, the more susceptible it is to mite infestation.

But what if the mites have already moved in? Don’t panic. Here’s how to treat an infested soap:

The freezer trick: Place the soap in a sealed bag and freeze it for at least 24 hours. This will kill the mites. While this eliminates the immediate problem, it doesn’t prevent re-infestation.
Surface cleaning: After freezing, wipe down the soap with a clean, damp cloth to remove any dead mites or residue.
Sunlight exposure: Mites don’t like sunlight. Place the soap in direct sunlight for a few hours. This can help to further eliminate any remaining mites and dry out the soap.

Now, let’s talk about crafting your own mite-repelling soap. This is where you can get creative with locally-sourced ingredients.

Here’s a basic recipe for a natural soap with mite-repelling properties, tailored for Nashville’s climate:

Ingredients:

Olive oil (30%): Provides moisturizing properties.
Coconut oil (30%): Adds hardness and lather.
Shea butter (20%): Nourishes and softens the skin.
Castor oil (10%): Enhances lather and adds emollience.
Neem oil (10%): A natural insect repellent with antifungal and antibacterial properties. This is your key mite-fighting ingredient.
Lye (Sodium Hydroxide): Use a lye calculator to determine the correct amount based on your oil weights. Safety first!
Distilled water: To dissolve the lye.
Essential oils (optional): Lavender, tea tree, or eucalyptus oil can add fragrance and further deter mites. Use sparingly and ensure they are skin-safe.
Dried herbs (optional): Lavender buds or rosemary can add texture and visual appeal.

Instructions:

Safety first: Wear gloves, goggles, and a long-sleeved shirt when working with lye.
Prepare the lye solution: Slowly add the lye to the distilled water, stirring constantly. The mixture will heat up. Let it cool to around 100-110°F.
Melt the oils: Combine the olive oil, coconut oil, shea butter, castor oil, and neem oil in a stainless steel pot. Heat gently until melted. Let it cool to around 100-110°F.
Combine the lye solution and oils: Slowly pour the lye solution into the oils, stirring constantly with an immersion blender.
Trace: Continue blending until the mixture reaches “trace,” a pudding-like consistency where a trail of the mixture briefly remains on the surface when drizzled.
Add essential oils and herbs (optional): Stir in your chosen essential oils and herbs.
Pour into mold: Pour the soap mixture into a mold lined with parchment paper.
Insulate: Cover the mold with a towel or blanket to insulate it.
Saponification: Let the soap sit for 24-48 hours to saponify.
Cut and cure: After 24-48 hours, unmold the soap and cut it into bars. Cure the bars in a well-ventilated area for 4-6 weeks. This allows excess water to evaporate and the soap to harden.

Nashville Climate Considerations:

High humidity: During the curing process, ensure adequate ventilation to prevent mold growth. A fan can help.
Warm temperatures: Avoid placing the soap in direct sunlight during curing, as this can cause it to melt or become discolored.

Locally-Sourced Ingredients:

Neem oil: While not native to Nashville, you can often find neem oil at local health food stores or online retailers that support local businesses.
Essential oils: Check out local farmers’ markets or craft fairs for essential oil vendors.
Herbs: Grow your own lavender or rosemary in your garden!

Common Mistakes and Pitfalls:

Using too much water: Excess water can make the soap more susceptible to mold and mite infestation. Use a lye calculator to ensure you’re using the correct amount of water.
Not curing the soap properly: Curing is essential for removing excess water and hardening the soap. Don’t skip this step!
Using rancid oils: Rancid oils can attract mites. Use fresh, high-quality oils.
Ignoring storage: Even with mite-repelling ingredients, proper storage is crucial.

Finally, let’s talk about when to consult a dermatologist. If you experience severe skin irritation, blistering, or signs of infection, it’s time to see a professional. They can help determine the cause of your skin problems and recommend appropriate treatment.

Nashville’s humid summers present a unique challenge for natural soap makers and users. By understanding the risks, implementing proper storage techniques, and crafting mite-repelling soaps with locally-sourced ingredients, you can keep your skin healthy and happy all year round. Don’t let those pesky mites ruin your soap!