You'd think a soap seller would have a squeaky clean reputation, but a Southern Illinois company has been disappointing customers lately, according to today's release from the BBB.

Soaps Gone Buy, based in Eldorado, Ill., had been a reliable supplier of hard-to-find soaps and other cleaning products until recently, customers told the BBB. The company has had a rash of complaints filed against in recent month from customers around the country.

Some customers, including those in the St. Louis area, said they have had to wait months for their orders, while others never got the products they ordered. Several customers who didn't get their orders weren't able to obtain refunds and only got their money back by challenging the charges on credit cards.

The situation has been a painful lesson in online shopping for several customers. It's another good reason to check BBB Business Reviews before shopping with an unfamiliar website or store. The reviews indicate whether a company has been pleasing its customers and how it has resolved complaints.

Other BBB tips for online shopping:

• Be careful when ordering from an unfamiliar business. Read all website information carefully and understand all shipping charges and other fees. Know how long it should take to receive your order.
• It is a good idea to try to speak to a live person before ordering in the event you need to speak to someone later.
• Pay by credit card whenever possible so you can challenge the charge if the item is not delivered.
• Check a firm’s BBB Business Review by going to www.bbb.org or by calling 314-645-3300.

Get more consumer news by following the BBB on Facebook or Twitter or visiting the BBB News Center.