Have you ever walked past a display of Zum Soap and been captivated by its vibrant colors and amazing scents? If you're like many people, you've probably wondered about the company behind these unique products. Who makes them, what are they all about, and what exactly is in that soap?
Let's pull back the curtain on the brand and explore the story, philosophy, and ingredients that make Zum so special.
Who Owns Zum Soap? The Story Behind Indigo Wild
The face behind Zum Soap is Emily Voth, a woman who started a small, grassroots company in Kansas City, Missouri, in 1996. After feeling disillusioned with her corporate job, a yoga instructor encouraged her to turn her passion for creating natural products into a business. This simple beginning, selling her handcrafted soaps at local farmers' markets, was the start of Indigo Wild.
The company name is a nod to Voth’s love for the wild indigo plant, known for its beautiful dark purple color. The name "Zum" itself was born from a playful moment: after a few glasses of wine, the phrase "That sure is zum bar of soap!" stuck, and a brand was born.
Today, Indigo Wild is a thriving company, but it hasn't lost its grassroots spirit. The Zum Factory in Kansas City is known for its quirky, happy atmosphere, where dogs roam freely and employees are encouraged to be creative. This philosophy of fun, natural living is the heart of the brand.
A Deeper Look at Zum Soap's Ingredients and Philosophy
What sets Zum apart from many commercial soaps is its commitment to simple, plant-based ingredients. The company's philosophy is all about using ingredients you can pronounce and trust. They prioritize natural over synthetic, a core value that resonates with health-conscious consumers.
Here’s a breakdown of what you'll typically find in a Zum Bar:
Saponified 100% Food-Grade Oils: The foundation of the soap is a blend of olive, coconut, palm, and castor oils. These are turned into soap using a traditional process called saponification. This blend ensures a rich, moisturizing lather that cleanses without stripping your skin of its natural oils.
Goat's Milk: This is a key ingredient in the famous Zum Bar. Goat's milk is rich in fatty acids and vitamins that are incredibly nourishing for the skin. It acts as a natural moisturizer and helps to maintain the skin’s pH balance, leaving it feeling soft and hydrated.
Pure Essential Oils: Instead of using synthetic fragrances, Zum Soap gets its distinct, wonderful scents from pure essential oil blends. This is where the magic happens, offering aromatherapy benefits with every wash. From the earthy notes of Frankincense & Myrrh to the uplifting scent of Lavender-Mint, each bar provides a unique sensory experience.
Natural Colorants: The vibrant colors of Zum soaps come from natural sources like ultramarines and iron oxides, ensuring they are safe for your skin.
What You Won't Find in Zum Soap
Just as important as what's in the soap is what isn't. Indigo Wild is known for its "Zum Difference," a promise to be free of:
Parabens
Phthalates
Petroleum by-products
Detergents
Synthetic fragrances or dyes
This commitment to clean ingredients has earned the brand a loyal following of people who want to avoid harsh chemicals and support a company that prioritizes quality and ethics.
Final Thoughts: Is Zum Soap the Right Choice for You?
Zum Soap is more than just a cleansing bar—it’s an experience built on a philosophy of simplicity, nature, and joy. From its humble beginnings at a farmers' market to its thriving factory today, the brand has remained true to its founder’s vision.
If you value natural ingredients, delightful scents, and a company with a feel-good story, then Zum Soap is definitely worth a try. It’s a small way to bring a little extra happiness and natural goodness into your daily routine.