Your finished product will only be as “natural” as the bar of soap you choose. When specifically trying to make natural soap, make sure you have read the ingredients list on the bar you are using.
A conventional kitchen grater will get the job done just fine. If you use a grater that you use in your kitchen for food, make sure that you rinse it thoroughly before using it again.
Using substantially less water, about 350g, you can create a cream-like soap that can be used for shaving. [4] X Research source You can vary the water amount depending on the precise thickness you want, using the above amounts as a guideline.
It will take about 15 minutes for the soap and water to combine. When it is done, it should have a frothy, soupy look. Before moving on, let the mixture cool for about 15 minutes. Repeat this entire step if the mixture is becoming separated.
Essential oils are very strong; a few drops is all you need. Simply put a few drops into the mixture, and stir thoroughly. [5] X Research source
If you shake the soap and it retains its gel-like consistency, it is ready to use. Make sure you add essential oils only after the soap has cooled and sat for 24 hours.
When creating large amounts of soap that you might not use all at once, make sure that you store the excess in a clean, sealed container.
Safety goggles/glasses. These are absolutely necessary to protect your eyes from any chemicals that may splash up. A long-sleeved shirt. Protective gloves.
Zero out the scale, remembering to put the empty vessel you will be using on top. [7] X Research source
Make sure that you use a dry bowl or container for the potassium hydroxide. You do not want it to contact water until you are making the soap.
Add 150 grams of coconut oil. Add 350 grams of olive oil to the coconut oil. Stir the oils together briefly, then leave over low heat while doing the next step. [8] X Research source
100 grams potassium hydroxide 170 grams water Set aside.
Mix in a well ventilated area. If you are inside, open the windows. [10] X Research source The mixture will heat up, so let it cool before moving on. Combining water and potassium hydroxide will cause a chemical reaction. This is normal, but be careful. Always be sure to keep your goggles on throughout the process.
Mix in a well ventilated area. If you are inside, open the windows. [10] X Research source The mixture will heat up, so let it cool before moving on. Combining water and potassium hydroxide will cause a chemical reaction. This is normal, but be careful. Always be sure to keep your goggles on throughout the process.
Pour slowly to avoid splashes. Keep the area well ventilated. Ensure the entire mixture is poured into the oil.
You want to ensure the oils, water, and potassium hydroxide are fully and completely mixed together.
Trace is a pudding-like consistency. If you can pull the blender out from the soap, and the circular outline of the blender remains slightly raised in the soap for a few moments, it has achieved trace. [11] X Research source If you do not have an immersion blender, you can stir by hand. However, this will drastically increase the amount of time the soap takes to achieve trace.
The soap will be done when it resembles a clear jelly. Nearly finished soap will be very difficult, if not impossible, to stir. [12] X Research source
If, when mixed, the solution is clear, you’re done! [13] X Research source If the mixture is a milky white, then return it to the heat source and continue heating for another thirty minutes and repeat until the solution is clear.
Stir until completely mixed and then take off the heat and let the soap cool.
The soap will be ready to use as soon as it cools, but letting it sit will add clarity that you may desire. [15] X Research source
When creating large amounts of soap that you might not use all at once, make sure that you store the excess in a clean, sealed container.
