For generations of bathers, Imperial Leather has remained a go-to brand, instantly recognisable due to the distinctive red and gold sticker. But few may realise that this little stamp of quality actually serves a practical purpose.
Inspired by the scent of Russian leather – a once-coverted export – Imperial Leather soap was marketed for its durability during the dark days of World War II. With strict rationing underway, households had to make their coupons stretch, and so didn’t want a soap that would simply melt to nothing after a few uses.
According to a wartime advert: “Imperial Leather Toilet Soap is one of the few luxuries still available to the discriminating. Supplies are obviously limited, but if only because Imperial Leather lasts longer and increases the purchasing power of your coupons, you should buy it wherever and whenever you can.”
Nowadays, as they navigate the cost of living crisis, savvy shoppers still turn to Imperial Leather for a soap that will last wash after wash, while offering its famous “rich, creamy lather”. And the sturdy metallic label, which many have noted positively does not budge, plays an important role when it comes to keeping the bar intact.
An intriguing conversation about the iron-clad label was sparked on the social media platform X – formerly known as Twitter – with one person declaring: “If the relationship isn’t as strong as that sticker on Imperial Leather soap, I don’t want it.”
Speaking for many, another curious individual wondered: “How does the sticker stay on Imperial Leather bars of soap right to the end?” A third person then chimed in, explaining: “I believe you’re supposed to have it in your soap dish/on the sink with the label side down. Stops soap getting a ‘soggy bottom’.”
This explanation has since been confirmed by Imperial Leather itself, in a statement made to the Mail Online, in which the brand clarified that the ‘sticker on the top is for a long-lasting bar and preventing mushiness’, acting as a tiny built-in soap dish.
A spokesperson informed the publication: “When the soap is used, the sticker will make and keep the top surface, where the sticker is on, concave. After use, the soap is supposed to be upside down. The concave surface will help water run out from the bar and minimise the touching surface on a soap tray.”
Should you want to try this hack for yourself, you can pick up a pack of four Imperial Leather soaps for £2 at Poundland.
Do you have a story to share? Email me at julia.banim@reachplc.com
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