Soap Is Covalent

We have first,

$Na+H_2O\rightarrow NaH+OH$

then

$Na+OH\rightarrow NaOH$

where the unpaired orbit of $O$ in $OH$ pairs up up the unpaired orbit in $Na$.  This is because $OH$ must come from somewhere first.  The formation of $NaH$ is necessary to provide for $OH$.  Water, $H_2O$ is not a ready mix of $H^{+}$ and $OH^{-}$.  Thus, preventing the formation of $NaH$ stops $Na$ from reacting with $H_2O$.

Where's the gas?  Either,

$2NaH\rightarrow 2Na+H_2$

where two $NaH$ gives up their $H$ to give $H_2$ or

$NaH+H_2O\rightarrow Na+H_2+OH$

where water contribute one of the $H$ to form $H_2$.  $OH$ is not a charged radical.  Both reaction suggest that $Na$ is catalytic in extracting $H_2$ from the solvent if not for the formation of the hydride, $NaH$.  Furthermore,

$Na+OH\rightarrow NaOH$

where the unpaired orbit in $Na$ pairs up with the unpaired orbit in $O$, makes $NaOH$ covalent!  $NaOH$ is organic.  Which is good news for those who have not used soap yet.

$NaOH$ is like water, $H_2O$ but has one of the $H$ replaced by an alkaline metal, $Na$.

Note:  It is not just the overall reactions but the sequence by with the reactions proceed that matters here.

What?  $NaH$ is too reactive to remain in water?  Yes evetually, only $NaOH$ with $H_2$ remain in the system.