THE SOAP THAT
DEFINED PURITY
Ivory was introduced in 1879 by Procter & Gamble and quickly became one of the most famous soap products in American history. It was promoted as a pure, gentle soap that was “99 and 44/100 percent pure,” a slogan that became widely recognized in early advertising. Ivory stood out at a time when many soaps were harsh or inconsistently made, offering a cleaner and more reliable product for everyday hygiene.
AN ACCIDENT THAT MADE
ADVERTISING HISTORY
One of Ivory’s most famous features was its ability to float in water, which happened accidentally during production but was turned into a major marketing advantage. This simple trait helped make the soap memorable and practical for household use. Over time, Ivory became a staple in American homes and played a major role in shaping early consumer advertising and mass-market hygiene products.