Do-It-Yourself/Soap
Make soap from lard.
Equipment
[edit | edit source]- Lard or some sort of fat or vegetable oil (as sunflower, olive oil).
- Sodium Hydroxide (NaOH)
- Glass beaker and stirring rod.
- Bunsen burner or other means of heating solution.
- Mold for making soap bars (any flexible plastic container).
Safety
[edit | edit source]Gloves, labcoat and appropriate eyeware should be worn when handling the 6M NaOH. It should be used in a well-ventilated area, preferably in a fume hood. DO NOT BREATHE THE FUMES. Wash with vinegar should you get some on your skin (have some vinegar handy before starting the experiment) -DO NOT wash with water!. Mixing lye with water results in a chemical reaction that creates extreme heat - hence, washing lye off your hands (for example) with water will only initiate that reaction on your hand, resulting in chemical burn.
How to do
[edit | edit source]- Place 16 oz. (450 g) of lard (or any other fat, such as vegoil or butter) in a beaker.
- In another container add 2.1 oz. (60 g) of NaOH to 6 oz. (170g) of water (do not add water to NaOH it will splatter) stir to dissolve and let cool to 40ºC (110 F).
- Melt fat under low heat to 110°F and add NaOH solution with stirring until the base has completely reacted with the lard (about 20 to 30 minutes)
- Pour the mixture of base and lard into molds.
- Let this cool and sit for a day or two. Let the soap cakes cure for three weeks before using.
External links
[edit | edit source]- Soap Making Glossary
- The Complete Guide to Soapmaking.
- Soap Recipe Corner Soapmaking methods, including Discounted Water Cold Process (DWCP).
- Soap Naturally Online instructions and self-hosted mailing list for beginner and expert soapmakers.
- Soap Making Fun Tips, articles, videos, and newsletter dealing with soap making.
- Soap Making Resource Soap making articles geared toward beginners.
- Bob Spencer / Practical Action (2005). Link: countryfarm-lifestyles.com/support-files/soapmaking-how-to-make-soap.pdf SOAPMAKING. Ebook online.