If you have HARD water - Distilled water WORKS!

I had been having a terrible time with some new soaps. The lather would turn out light, airy, and completely disappear by the time the razor was raised up to take the first swipe. Minimal water in the brush, extra loading didn't help.

I checked my official water content. The city lists a range of ppm numbers (164 to 291) which goes from the high end of "Hard" extending through the "Very Hard" range.

I picked up distilled water - dampened brush with it... HUGE difference! HUGE!
It loaded up almost snot-like, and made a thick peaky lather.

Now I have another item to store or have out on the counter... the clutter is building fast!

Glad you got it worked out for yourself though man. A good lather will make a huge difference for you.