The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) plays an important role in ensuring the quality and safety of consumer products in India. In various consumer goods, bath bar – A daily required for millions – is regulated under Indian standard 13498: 2017. Getting BIS certification for bathing bars is not only a legal requirement, but also a mark of trust, quality and compliance.
In this blog, we will find out what you want to know about BIS certification for bathing bar.
What is IS 13498:2017?
IS 13498: 2017 is the Indian standard for bathing and maintaining the quality, performance and safety of the bath bar sold in India for Indian standards for bathing bars prepared by BIS.
It specifies the requirements related to the standard:
- Physical properties: size, appearance, hardness, and lathering quality.
- Chemical requirements: pH value, moisture content, total fatty substance (TFM), and free caustic alkali.
- Safety Ideas: Ensuring bathing bar does not cause skin irritation or harmful side effects.
Why is BIS Certification for Bathing Bars Mandatory?
Below we mentioned why BIS certification for bathing bars mandatory:
- Consumer Safety – This ensures that the bathing bar completes safe chemical compositions for everyday use.
- Quality Assurance – Provides a benchmark for manufacturers to maintain constant product quality.
- Legal Compliance – Bathing Bars are under compulsory BIS Certification Scheme, which means that products cannot be sold in the Indian market without BIS approval.
- Market Trust – B.S.-protected products are more acceptable for retailers, distributors and consumers.
- Global recognition – increases brand reputation, especially for export markets that attach importance to Indian regulatory compliance.
Scope of IS 13498:2017
Standard Cover:
- Simple bath bar – regular soap bar for cleaning.
- Special times – bar with additives such as moisturizer, herbal extracts, or aroma, provided they comply with safety boundaries.
- Exclusion – Medicated soap with medical claims (these can fall under the rules of drugs and cosmetics).
Key Tests and Parameters for BIS Certification
Bathing bars under IS 13498:2017 are evaluated on several critical parameters:
| Test Parameter | Requirement | Purpose |
| Total Fatty Matter (TFM) | Min. % as per grade (e.g., Grade 1 – 76%) | Ensures cleaning and lather quality |
| pH of 1% Solution | 9.0 – 10.5 | Ensures skin compatibility |
| Moisture Content | Within specified limits | Prevents cracking or shrinking |
| Free Caustic Alkali | Within prescribed safety range | Prevents skin irritation |
| Lathering & Foaming Quality | Must meet BIS standards | Consumer satisfaction in use |
Process of Obtaining BIS Certification for Bathing Bars
Below we mentioned steps to obtain BIS certificate for bathing bars:
- Application filing – Submit BIS registration application with product details.
- Testing – numbers in BIS-recognized laboratory are tested under 13498: 2017 parameters.
- Inspection by BIS officers – Factory campus, manufacturing process and quality control system are verified.
- License Grants (BIS ISI Mark) – If all criteria are met, the manufacturer is allowed to use BIS Standard Mark (ISI Mark) on product packaging.
- Monitoring and renewal – inspection and product tests of periodic factory ensure continuous compliance.
Read More: Process for getting BIS for Certification
Benefits of BIS Certification for Bathing Bars?
Below we mentioned benefits of BIS Certificate for Bathing Bars
- Legal Authority to sell bath bar in India.
- Competitive advantage with ISI mark, symbol of quality.
- Strong brand reputation in domestic and export markets.
- Regulatory recalls punishment and protection from the product.
- Increased customer trust and loyalty.
Penalties for Non-Compliance
Selling the bath bar without BIS Certification for Bathing Bars
can lead to:
- Seizure of goods by officials.
- Heavy fines and punishment.
- Legal action including imprisonment in serious cases.
- Permanent loss to brand reputation.
Conclusion
BIS certification for bath bars is higher than a regulatory formality – it is a mark of belief, safety and quality. Any manufacturer or importer planning to sell bath bars in India should follow 13498: 2017. With correct documentation and guidance, obtaining certification becomes a smooth process and adds tremendous value to your business.
Is BIS certification mandatory for bathing bars in India?
Yes, BIS certification is mandatory to ensure bathing bars meet safety, quality, and hygiene standards.
Which standard applies to bathing bars for BIS certification?
Bathing bars must comply with IS 13498 under BIS to obtain certification.
Why is BIS certification important for bathing bars?
It assures consumers of product quality, safety, and compliance with Indian regulations.
