plus all soaps are as close to you as a mailbox. Arko has been mentioned that's about as budget friendly as it gets. plus its a great performer. I just don't care for the smell. the VDH isn't a great soap but your lather making ability is more than likely the issue with it drying out. so if money is the issue stick with it, time doesn't hurt it you just need to hydrate it a little, some guys buy the vintage stuff that's many years or decades old and it still works. Rob at Stirling does have some reasonably priced soaps , buy none will be as cheap as Arko Tc