• Bulk Apothecary

Bulk Apothecary

Overview

Bulk Apothecary has a rating of 1.9 stars from 258 reviews, indicating that most customers are generally dissatisfied with their purchases. Reviewers complaining about Bulk Apothecary most frequently mention customer service, hand sanitizer, and essential oils problems. Bulk Apothecary ranks 79th among Aromatherapy sites.

  • Service
    49
  • Value
    49
  • Shipping
    50
  • Returns
    36
  • Quality
    46

This company does not typically respond to reviews

Positive reviews (last 12 months): 42.9%
Positive
3
Neutral
0
Negative
4
59
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What reviewers want you to know

Positive highlights

  • I ordered essential oils, got them in a few days, love the oils, I will order again from Bulk Apothecary.

Critical highlights

  • You're screwing the people who are actually willing to tolerate you crappy customer service!
How would you rate Bulk Apothecary?
Top Positive Review

“Quick, efficient and good price.”

Jane S.
4/27/23

I have started making soap to sell in memory of my brother- the money raised goes to pat adoption fees for shelter animals-- That said- it was important to keep costs down so more money can go to the cause. Not only are the prices at Bulk Apothecary competitive- their shipping costs are much more competitive than a lot of their competitors. They get your order out quickly and it arrives as advertised. Thank you Bulk Apothecary for your part in making my mission to honor my brother a little easier! -Jane

Top Critical Review

“I wish I could give them zero stars.”

Christie O.
9/20/23

I purchased a 7lb tub of natural cocoa butter from them & received a dud. The product was hard and looked dried out except for a few dark spots. I tried to use it anyway, wondering if melting it down would solve the issue, and I was able to make lotion out of it but my recipe was off due to the consistency and the end product is hard to use, it doesn't seem to melt down in my hands as well as prior batches. Anyway I waited too long to try return it but I wrote to them asking how to dispose it and whether it may have gone bad and their customer service was not helpful at all. They ignored my question of whether it was bad and told me that the lot expired this month (a year after receiving it, when it was bad when I got it) and to contact my local waste disposal to figure out how to remove it. I get that they're no longer responsible for disposal once it's out of their hands, but if you can't even educate your customer then you have no business selling products with combustible warnings. And further why are they selling such large quantities of product that are nearly bad? A year is a quick turnaround for that amount of cocoa butter when the shelf life is 2-5 years... how long did it sit on their shelves? If it was that close to expiration and clearly already bad if you opened it, then the dates should be visible to customers before purchase & it should be offered at a discount. An expensive lesson that there are plenty of other sources available.

Reviews (258)

Rating

Timeframe

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Reviews that mention popular keywords

customer service (88) bulk apothecary (62)
Thumbnail of user janes102
3 reviews
4 helpful votes
April 27th, 2023

I have started making soap to sell in memory of my brother- the money raised goes to pat adoption fees for shelter animals-- That said- it was important to keep costs down so more money can go to the cause.
Not only are the prices at Bulk Apothecary competitive- their shipping costs are much more competitive than a lot of their competitors.
They get your order out quickly and it arrives as advertised.
Thank you Bulk Apothecary for your part in making my mission to honor my brother a little easier!
-Jane

Service
Value
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Thumbnail of user hartlainenterprises
1 review
1 helpful vote
May 26th, 2023

My business used their products with EXCELLENT customer reviews! Personally, I began using their products to replace Philosophy's Amazing Grace line...which has gone down hill since Coty bought the company. I get a BETTER product for LESS from Bulk Apothecary!

Tip for consumers:
Good, reliable family run business

Products used:
Their line of Olive oil lotions & creams, regular lotions, and scents

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Value
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Thumbnail of user sallyt191
3 reviews
1 helpful vote
January 26th, 2022
Verified purchase

I was expecting the worst after I had read the reviews (after I had already placed an order) so was pleasantly surprised when my order arrived in slightly over a week. It arrived in fine shape and as some had mentioned the smells of some of their products, I opened each item and did not notice that any smelled unusual. I will probably order from them again. Note: I ordered eight different items but in very small quantities for making homemade lotion bars for personal use.

Products used:
soap making supplies

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Quality
Thumbnail of user fuatinop
1 review
33 helpful votes
June 28th, 2020

I placed my order a week ago for a 50 pack of clear jars and lids, it came before the time estimated which is surprising because I live in Los Angeles and Bulk Apothecary is based in Ohio. The jars and lids are good quality, even the packaging was eye appealing. I can honestly say these were the cheapest I found and definitely worth it, I recommended my friends as well to Bulk Apothecary.

Thumbnail of user tamh9
1 review
31 helpful votes
April 1st, 2020

I ordered 3/10 and both gallons arrived today 3/31. In a time of crisis like this, I applaud all the work this company has done to fulfill orders. Especially at times like this - how everyone expects 2 day shipping etc is beyond me. I waited and it has been received. All of my stores have been out for cover a month and are still out - so thank you for still having access when no one else can provide!

Tip for consumers:
Please please please review their Facebook posts as to shipping. They are working day and night to get thousands of orders out

Products used:
2 gallons of hand sanitizer

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Value
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Thumbnail of user anib16
1 review
0 helpful votes
July 7th, 2021
Verified purchase

I place my order and everything was perfect, I got it in a week, the product packed perfectly, the bath bombs smell amazingly good. I ordered some samples to know the product and I am very happy with the super fast shipping, also they sent confirmation to my email with all the details of the purchase. Everything flowed perfectly. I recommend it and will buy from them again.

Tip for consumers:
N/A

Products used:
Bath Bombs

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Value
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Thumbnail of user jerrym531
1 review
17 helpful votes
November 18th, 2020

First time site user. I ordered 2 bottles of my daily fragrance because the price was so much less than anywhere. I felt it was too good to be true. I read the reviews and saw all the negative reviews were hand sanitizer and I understand how difficult that item was to deal with so I gave them a pass. I'm glad I did! 2 days later and I'm restocked prob for the year but thrilled with the price, follow up from customer service, and quick delivery. I'll be shopping here more often for sure!

Thumbnail of user laurenb1062
1 review
3 helpful votes
December 13th, 2022
Verified purchase

So Im just now discovering these reviews on sitejabber.com. I have never heard of sitejabber.com before, nor did I see these reviews prior to placing my order. I am venturing into soap and candle making and somehow stumbled upon Bulk Apothecary, don't recall how. Im glad I didnt see these reviews prior to purchasing because I would have completely avoided this company due to the amount of negative reviews Ive seen.

What I can say this...I purchased $400 worth of supplies; oils, butters, and fragrance. I havent one negative thing to say about this company other than I wish the shipping would have been a tad bit faster. I think it took a little over a week to get my stuff and when i tried to open the 16oz fragrance containers the part you pull to unlock it was a little hard to get off...other than that, nothing to cmplain about. Im so used to shopping on amazon and getting my stuff with a couple of days some guess Im spoiled a bit. I even had to email them regarding a question about fragrance load percentage and the individual who helped me seemed polite and knowledgeable.

Not sure what the fuss is, but its 12.12.22 and after $400 worth of items, I will definitely order again.

Products used:
Avocado/Castor/Palm/Coconut/Almond/Olive Oil, mango butter and 3 different fragrances

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Value
Shipping
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Thumbnail of user jamesf1777
1 review
13 helpful votes
August 14th, 2020

My 1st order was 4 gals in march... just reordering 16 gals... im long haul truck driver... essential worker... gel & spray been keeping me & family safe... takes a little time to receive... but worth the wait... dont have to travel all over town looking... UPS bring to front door... LIFE SAVER... i forgot to add coupon for 15% off... called next morning... they gave me discount & refund on PAYPAL instantly... NO COMPLAINTS

Thumbnail of user jeang205
1 review
51 helpful votes
June 18th, 2020

I'm pretty disturbed by the number of bad reviews from what appear to be "pandemic only" customers. It's unfair and simply disgraceful. I am a long time customer (5+ years) and Bulk Apothecary is one of the most reputable and reliable online suppliers I have dealt with for soap making and body care supplies. Every order I have received (many containing dozens of items) has been 100% accurate. Every order is well packed in heavy duty cartons and has arrived undamaged and with no leakage. That alone is remarkable since a full carton can easily weigh 25-35 lbs. I also placed orders from February to April 2020, during the peak of pandemic shutdowns. Yes, the orders were delayed. What do you expect during a worldwide pandemic when Walmart and Target look like post-apocalyptic ruins? BUT they clearly stated on their website there were delays, AND also went above and beyond to communicate with customers by email. I received several detailed emails explaining problems with their supply chains and how they were working extra shifts to fill orders. If I could nominate them for a "Pandemic Superhero" award, I would. They are one, single, SMALL family business that continued to manufacture and ship hand sanitizer by the gallon when it could be found nowhere else! What was Purell's excuse? Create an account before placing your order. They communicate well with their customers IF you give them a good email address! You can log in and track the progress of your order and track it once it ships. They also have an online chat option. This is a good company. They've been around 25+ years. I've been a customer for 5+ years. Check the dates of the bad reviews. Don't judge them by reviews from pandemic trolls. Before the pandemic they had "A" rating at Ohio Better Business Bureau. Now it is "B" due to pandemic delivery complaints. Truly sad that people carelessly blame a good company for issues beyond their control.

Tip for consumers:
Make an account before placing an order. Give them a good email address and they will communicate with you. Log in to track orders, view order history, or use their online chat. Be fair. Don’t complain about shipping delays during a worldwide pandemic when they already told you there would be delays.

Products used:
In 5+ years I have never returned anything, no wrong, damaged or leaking items ever received. Most of my orders are for unscented bases, raw ingredients, fragrance oils, essential oils, and packaging. They sell quality supplies for making soap and body care products.

Service
Value
Shipping
Quality
Thumbnail of user sarahd332
1 review
22 helpful votes
May 21st, 2019

I ordered a variety of items ( handmade soap. Oils, etc.) and everything arrived as excpeted and really fast! I gave myself a month lead time so I can get crafting before Farmers Market season and I was SHOCKED to get everything in a few days! Amazing! I ordered a few soaps that they make in house and the quality is amazing! I'm very happy and I think I just fell in love a little with Bulk Apothecary. Its ok, you can see other people. Xoxo

Tip for consumers:
Know what you want before you look! This place is the rabbit hole of soap/candle companies and you CAN get everything you need here! Start small and order frequently- the quality is worth it!

Products used:
Soap and essential oils

Service
Value
Shipping
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Thumbnail of user debt46
2 reviews
14 helpful votes
November 20th, 2019

They are my go to store and have been almost since they began business... love their products that I have purchased, they always come well packaged and shipped, and the Essential Oils I have ordered and use daily are awesome! So much better than those one oz size bottles from other sources... and priced soooo much better... If I'm looking to buy something I always research and compare prices and always end up ordering from Bulk Apothecary... truly one of my favorite go to's

Thumbnail of user clares103
1 review
1 helpful vote
November 9th, 2021

I am a new customer and I ordered supplies for soap making. My shipment arrived very quickly and the products are wonderful. I will definitely be a repeat customer!

Thumbnail of user everettg21
1 review
2 helpful votes
March 28th, 2020

I was leary of previous reviews but needed hand sanitizer since its not available in stores where I live. I ordered the 1 gallon hand sanitizer and they said 10 days for shipping, it was 11, so not that bad. Recieved order and its good. All around pleased at price, shipping and quality. Would buy again.

Thumbnail of user beverlys77
1 review
17 helpful votes
March 15th, 2018

Bulk is local to me (so grateful for that! Save on shipping charges) and I've never had a problem with items out of stock etc. However, I always keep my supply stash going so that I never run out. Rule of thumb for this hobby is don't order right before a show or a deadline! Everyone I've encountered in person has been very friendly, from the front desk to the pickup ladies in the back. I wish everyone else had smooth experiences like I have. Order ahead.

Thumbnail of user phild477
1 review
0 helpful votes
April 25th, 2020

THIS IS THE BEST EO COMPANY I HAVE USED SINCE I STARTED USING OILS 25+ YEARS AGO.
THERE PRODUCTS WORK JUST AS WELL AS YOUNG LIVING AND THE PRICES ARE QUITE A BIT LOWER.
I HAVE NEVER HAD ANY PROBLEMS WITH THEIR CUSTOMER SERVICE.
I CAN NOT BELIEVE THAT ANYONE WHO HAS DEALT WITH BA WOULD NOT GIVE THEM AT LEAST A FOUR OUT OF FIVE.
I WOULD AND HAVE RECOMMENDED MANY PEOPLE TO BUY FROM BA.
I HOPE THEY STAY IN BUSINESS AND DON'T CHANGE ANYTHING.
BA- YOU ARE DOING A WONDERFUL JOB.
PHIL D. WAT

Thumbnail of user alician65
1 review
5 helpful votes
September 17th, 2020

I've been buying from Bulk Apothecary since early June. I've never had a problem with them. A majority of these bad reviews seem to be coming from people who ordered hand sanitizer during a NATIONAL SHORTAGE. I mean of course you're gonna have a bad time.

Anyway, I've been purchasing Melt and Pour, bath bombs, oils, and colorants for my shop for months now and I always get my order within a week tops. Bulk Apothecary is great!

Thumbnail of user rachaelh92
1 review
2 helpful votes
December 6th, 2020

I order from them all the time. There essential oils finally helped my symptoms of lyme after 2 months on doxycycline that did nothing. I swear by them!

Thumbnail of user deniseb350
1 review
22 helpful votes
August 27th, 2019

I have ordered several times through Bulk Apothecary and am pleased to say I am very satisfied. Of course, they have been out of my items at various times but true to form, when it becomes available, I receive a prompt email. As far as sprayer and bottle sizes, You, the buyer must pay attention. Yes, I screwed up once. Read to the bottom of the bottle specs and you specifically get the sprayer/cap size You should order. Also, Yes, I ordered one base and was sent another. I went back on line and read the ingredients for both. The massage oil contains the exact same ingredients as the scrub bases. Will continue to order. LOVE THESE GUYS. Thank you, Denise at Seui's Urban Soul

Tip for consumers:
Read before you actually buy. Compared to other sites, the quality and pricing is incomparable. You have to be a diligent and patient shopper before you buy. Do your research. Great company. So far, So good.

Products used:
Blended fragrances, closures, packaging, soaps, bases, and jars.

Service
Value
Shipping
Quality
Thumbnail of user leeleed2
1 review
1 helpful vote
September 22nd, 2019

Bulk Apothecary has the best flavors. The prices aren't high and you get a great amount for your money. They never disappoint and the shipping is always so fast.

Thumbnail of user ac861
1 review
0 helpful votes
July 15th, 2020

They shipped my order promptly and received it the week after. Dried lavender was fragrant and the beeswax didn't have a heavy smoke scent.

Thumbnail of user jessicas536
3 reviews
4 helpful votes
August 6th, 2018

I've ordered from this company twice and never had a problem. The packaging products and closures are always clean and quality products. I haven't had any issues with the stock, but just recently started using this company. I wonder if their online stock now matches their current stock. I found the prices to be good, the quality great, and the shipping fast!

Thumbnail of user jp1075
1 review
0 helpful votes
September 3rd, 2020

Seems like most of the bad reviews were because you couldn't get hand sanitizer at the beginning of the pandemic? Yea, no sh!#. I've ordered multiple times over the years from bulk apothecary and never really had any problems.

Thumbnail of user tracig6
54 reviews
434 helpful votes
February 24th, 2018

I used to spend obscene amounts of money on one of the well-known MLM brands (Rhymes with Loung Yiving) Like, I was faithful to that brand, and that brand only. In a pinch, when my go-to brand was out of a very popular blend (Rhymes with Crease & Yawning) I found this site and ordered a giant bottle of their version for about the price I typically pay for 5mL. I wasn't expecting much but when it arrived I was shocked at how close it was to the real thing. So, I slowly started replacing my expensive stash with oils from Bulk Apothecary and I couldn't be happier.

Thumbnail of user denisep221
1 review
18 helpful votes
February 18th, 2019

I Am weary after having some bad experiences with a couple of companies here in Canada. Some of you may know them Saffire Blue, and Purple Citrus... horrible. I now read through company reviews before ordering. After reading through the reviews of Bulk Apothecary I was a little skeptical about ordering from them, but decided to give them a try. My order arrived 3 days after placing it. ( faster than the other three companies that I had ordered from the same day).
If you are ordering to Canada I would suggest shipping through USPS. It is a little more money at the time of order, but less in the end than if you ship with UPS or DHL. With those you will pay duties, taxes, and the brokerage fee which is really quite high.
I will definitely use this company regularly.
A+

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Alexis H.
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