How to Get Soul Sand in Minecraft

Guide Java Bedrock

Quick answer: Soul sand generates mostly in soul sand valleys, and below Y=34 along the shores of lava seas in the Nether wastes. Mine it with any tool (a shovel is quickest). It slows you down unless you wear Soul Speed boots, and it grows Nether wart.

What you need

Shovel (optional)
Soul Speed boots (optional)

Step by step

Go to the Nether. Soul sand valleys have the most, where soul sand and soul soil make up the surface.
Also look below Y=34 in the Nether wastes along lava sea shores, usually in four-block-deep layers.
Check Nether fortress Nether wart rooms, hoglin stables and bastion housing units.
Mine it with a shovel for speed. Any tool or your hand works.
Use it to grow Nether wart, create soul fire and make upward bubble columns.
Wear Soul Speed boots to avoid being slowed by it.

Java vs Bedrock

Soul sand ore blobs generate at altitudes 0-31 in Java Edition and 0-32 in Bedrock Edition in soul sand valleys.

Versions: Soul sand ore blobs replace only netherrack.

Frequently asked questions

Where do I find soul sand?

Soul sand valleys, and lava sea shores in the Nether wastes below Y=34.

What does soul sand do?

Slows walkers, grows Nether wart, makes soul fire and upward bubble columns.

How do I avoid the slowdown?

Wear Soul Speed boots.