Ever notice how your soap turns into a mushy mess after a few days sitting in water? A soap dish with drainage fixes that — and making one yourself is easier than you might think. With just a few tools and scraps of wood, you can build a simple, good-looking soap dish that keeps your soap dry and your bathroom a little more stylish.
Here’s how to make one from start to finish — no fancy workshop required.
What You’ll Need
- A small piece of wood (cedar, pine, or oak work great)
- Sandpaper (medium and fine grit)
- Saw (a handsaw or small table saw)
- Drill with a small bit
- Ruler or measuring tape
- Pencil
- Wood finish or mineral oil (optional, for sealing)
Step 1: Cut the Base
Cut your wood to about 4 x 3 inches — that’s a good size for most bars of soap. You can go bigger or smaller depending on what you use.
Step 2: Add Drainage Grooves
Use your pencil and ruler to mark three to five straight lines across the width of the wood. These will be your drainage channels.
Carefully saw or carve along those lines to make shallow grooves. They don’t have to be deep — just enough for water to flow through.
Tip: If you have a drill, you can make small holes instead of grooves. Either works fine.
Step 3: Smooth It Out
Use sandpaper to smooth all sides and edges. Start with medium grit, then switch to fine grit until it feels silky to the touch. The smoother it is, the better it’ll look and the longer it’ll last.
Step 4: Seal the Wood (Optional)
If you want your soap dish to handle moisture better, rub it with mineral oil or a food-safe wood finish. This not only protects the wood but also brings out its natural color and grain.
Let it dry for a few hours before use.
Step 5: Put It to Use
Set your new soap dish by the sink or shower and enjoy the satisfaction of using something you made with your own hands. The grooves or holes will keep your soap dry and clean longer.
That’s it — a simple, quick DIY project that’s both useful and good-looking. No need for power tools or expensive materials. Just a bit of time and a few supplies, and you’ve got a custom wooden soap dish that adds a touch of warmth to your bathroom.
Whether you’re trying to cut down on plastic or just love handmade touches, this small project is a perfect place to start.