Self-Draining Soap Holder (2-Part System)

🧼 Self-Draining Soap Holder (2-Part System – Insert + Tray)

A highly optimized soap holder designed for real-world use and clean 3D printing.

This model uses a 2-part system consisting of a removable insert and a tray, ensuring efficient drainage, stable soap placement and easy cleaning.

✨ Key Features

• True Self-Draining Design
  The insert is angled (~7°) and combined with elongated drainage channels to actively guide water away from the soap.
• 2-Part System (Insert + Tray)
  The soap rests on a removable insert while water collects (or drains) below.
  This keeps your soap dry and prevents it from sitting in water.
• Anti-Slip Stopper Geometry
  Precisely tuned stoppers prevent the soap from sliding forward, even when wet.
  Designed to work with both smooth and textured filaments.
• Finger Access Cutout
  The front opening allows quick and easy removal of the insert.
• Two Tray Variants
  • Standard Tray: collects water (perfect for cabinets or shelves)
  • Drain Tray: integrated outlet for continuous water drainage (ideal for sinks)
• Functional Edge Design
  Carefully adjusted edges and radii ensure proper water separation and prevent unwanted water retention.

📏 Dimensions & Compatibility

• Inner usable area: 105 x 80 mm
• Compatible with:
  • Standard rectangular soap bars
  • Round soaps (tested with ~71 mm diameter)

Designed for maximum compatibility without wasted space.

🧠 Design Approach

This model focuses on function over gimmicks:

• Water is actively guided away
• Soap remains stable without sticking
• Insert removal is simple and intuitive
• Surfaces are optimized for FDM printing
• Geometry is tuned to avoid water buildup

Every detail – from slope angle to stopper height – was iteratively refined.

🖨️ Printing Notes

• Standard version: prints without supports
• Drain tray (spout version):
  For best results, supports are recommended around the outlet.
  With well-tuned settings, it can also be printed support-free.
• Recommended settings:
  • Layer height: 0.08 mm (especially for smooth slopes)
  • 0.4 mm nozzle
  • 2–3 perimeters
• Important:
  Using the provided print profile is strongly recommended, as it is optimized for:
  • clean overhang performance (drain)
  • smooth surface finish on angled areas
  • correct fit between insert and tray

🔧 Fit & Tolerances

• Designed clearance ensures:
  • secure fit without rattling
  • easy removal of the insert
• Optimized for typical PLA tolerances.

🎨 Material Notes

• Works with PLA, PETG and similar materials
• Textured filaments (e.g. marble PLA) increase grip
• Smooth filaments also perform reliably due to geometry-based friction

💡 Optional Visual Features

• Outer tray can be printed with fuzzy skin for a subtle textured look
• Clean logo placement on the back for a refined finish

🚀 Final Thoughts

This is a function-first design built around real usage:

No unnecessary complexity – just a clean, efficient and well-engineered soap holder that does exactly what it should.

If you print it, feel free to share your results!