How to make key soap bar soap
Making soap, such as key soap, involves a process called saponification, where fats or oils react with a strong alkali to form soap and glycerin. Here’s a basic outline to make soap at home:
Ingredients:
1. Fats/Oils: Common choices include palm oil, coconut oil, or olive oil.
2. Lye (Sodium Hydroxide): Available in hardware stores or online.
3. Water: Distilled water is recommended.
Equipment:
1. Safety gear (gloves, goggles, long sleeves).
2. A digital scale for measuring.
3. Heat-resistant containers (glass or stainless steel).
4. A stick blender or sturdy whisk.
5. Soap mold (silicone molds are easy to use).
Basic Recipe:
1. Weigh the ingredients:
For example, for a small batch, you might use 500g of coconut oil, 300g of olive oil, and 200g of palm oil.
The amount of lye and water needed will depend on the specific oils used. Use an online lye calculator to determine the correct amounts. Typically, the ratio is about 1 part lye to 3 parts water.
2. Prepare the lye solution:
Carefully add the lye to the water (never the other way around) in a well-ventilated area or outdoors. The mixture will heat up and release fumes, so avoid inhaling them.
Stir until the lye is completely dissolved and let it cool to around 100°F (38°C).
3. Melt the oils:
Heat the oils in a large pot until they are fully melted and combined. Let the oils cool to the same temperature as the lye solution, around 100°F (38°C).
4. Combine the lye solution and oils:
Slowly pour the lye solution into the oils while stirring constantly. Use a stick blender to mix the solution until it reaches “trace” – this is when the mixture thickens to a pudding-like consistency and leaves a trail when drizzled on the surface.
5. Add any optional ingredients:
If you want to add fragrance, color, or other additives, now is the time. Mix thoroughly.
6. Pour into molds:
Pour the soap mixture into the prepared molds, smoothing the top if necessary.
7. Curing:
Cover the molds with a towel or plastic wrap and let the soap sit in a cool, dry place for 24-48 hours.
Once the soap is firm, remove it from the molds and cut it
into bars if necessary.
Allow the bars to cure for 4-6 weeks in a well-ventilated area. This allows the soap to harden and complete the saponification process.
Safety Tips:
Always wear protective gear when handling lye.
Ensure you are working in a well-ventilated area.
Keep vinegar nearby to neutralize any lye spills on the skin.
By following these steps, you can create your own homemade soap. Experimenting with different oils and additives can help you customize the soap to your preferences.
