The Handmade Soap Company

From humble beginnings comes great soap. Using only two pots and the most natural ingredients conceivable – not to mention a generous helping of hard work – Donagh and Gemma crafted the brand's first ever soaps in their own kitchen, since when they've gone from strength to strength.

They grew steadily, supplying only farmer's markets and neighbours at first. It wasn't long, however, before the duo were having to invest in some considerably bigger pots.

The key to their success? It's found in their careful, considered blends of essential oils, which are brought together with some of nature's finest remedies to form 99.7% natural soaps – soaps that contain absolutely no chemical nastiness. That extra 0.3%, in case you were wondering, refers simply to the binding agent and preservative that helps the brand's lotions to deliver their full range of benefits.

What's more, none of these formulas are ever tested on animals. Oh, and did we mention the smell? All things considered, this is the collection that just keeps on giving.