Make Your Own Soap

Sodium Hydroxide plays a vital role in the soap making process, where its chemical reaction with fats and oils results in the magic of saponification, yielding exquisite handmade soaps.

 Here are the materials you'll need:

• Two good-sized stainless steel or enamelled saucepans
• One heat-proof glass measuring jug or a plastic jug suitable for boiling water
• Scales
• Wooden or stainless steel spoons for stirring
• Two cooking/brewing thermometers
• A mould to pour the liquid soap while it sets, such as a wooden or cardboard tray lined with grease-proof paper or silicone baking sheet
• Eye and hand protection (safety glasses and rubber gloves)
• A blanket or large towel
• Water
• Sodium Hydroxide Pearl 99%
• Olive Oil
• Coconut Oil
• Palm Oil
• Grapefruit seed extract OR Vitamin E

Step 1: Select your mould carefully, ensuring that it is lined appropriately if using a wooden mould. The lining paper should be folded into corners to prevent leaks.

Step 2: Measure 12 oz (340g) of cold, clean water into a jug. Weigh 125g of Sodium Hydroxide Pearl into another container. Carefully add the Sodium Hydroxide to the water while stirring continuously with a spoon or spatula. Be cautious not to inhale the initial vapours. Stir until the Sodium Hydroxide dissolves completely without any lumps.

Step 3: The solution, now referred to as Lye, will heat up to nearly 200 degrees Celsius and needs to cool. Place a thermometer in the solution and set it aside.

Step 4: In one saucepan, measure precisely 10oz (284g) of coconut oil and 6oz (170g) of palm oil. Gently melt the oils on the stove, avoiding overheating. Once melted, turn off the heat and let it cool completely.

Step 5: In the other saucepan, measure 1lb (454g) of olive oil (pomace grade is preferred) for the soap-making pan.

Step 6: Pour the combined coconut and palm oils into the olive oil pan, mixing them thoroughly.

Step 7: Place a thermometer in each pan, monitoring the temperatures of both the lye and the oils.

Step 8: Keep an eye on both the oil and lye temperatures until they are at similar levels, typically between 80 to 130 degrees Celsius. Once they reach the desired temperatures, carefully pour the lye into the oils, stirring briskly to initiate the chemical reaction.

Step 9: As you stir, the solution will turn opaque and thicken, reaching a stage known as 'the trace.' At this point, you can add essential oils or any desired colours.

Step 10: Once everything is combined, pour the mixture into your lined mould, covering it with a cardboard sheet and insulating with towels or a blanket. Allow the soap to solidify at room temperature, typically within 24 hours.

Step 11: After setting and cooling, remove the soap from the mould, and if needed, cut it into bars or blocks. Leave the soap to cure at room temperature for at least 3-4 weeks, allowing air to circulate around each bar or block.

Important Note: Prior to using any of the products mentioned, it is highly recommended to thoroughly read and understand all safety precautions associated with each product.

Please be advised that this guide is intended for informational purposes only and APC Pure cannot accept any responsibility for the outcome of any usage based on this guide.