Cooked Soap
A traditional homemade soap recipe using simple ingredients, suitable for those interested in DIY cleansing products with a classic, clean scent and natural feel.
Ingredients
- 2 qt. melted fat
- 1 can lye
- 1 c. liquid ammonia
- 1 qt. water ⓘ
Instructions
- Dissolve the lye in the water and let stand until it is lukewarm.
- Add the dissolved lye slowly to the melted fat, stirring constantly until the mixture becomes jellylike.
- Cook the mixture slowly.
- Add Borax water and mix thoroughly.
- Remove from heat, then add ammonia and stir until the mixture reaches the consistency of thick honey.
- Pour into molds and let cure for 4 to 6 weeks.
- The same recipe can be used by omitting Borax or ammonia, or either.
Tips & Substitutions
When making cooked soap, ensure you wear gloves and goggles for safety, as lye can be caustic. If you prefer a more natural soap, consider substituting the ammonia with essential oils for fragrance. If the mixture becomes too thick, gently reheat it while stirring. Always work in a well-ventilated area to avoid any strong odors.
Serving Suggestions
This cooked soap can be used for various household cleaning tasks. Pair it with a natural scrubber or cloth for a more effective clean. It can also serve as a base for homemade laundry detergent when mixed with washing soda. Consider using it alongside other homemade cleaning solutions for a fully natural cleaning regimen.
Storage & Reheating
Once the soap has cured for 4 to 6 weeks, store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Wrap the bars in parchment paper or place them in a breathable container to keep them dry. Reheat them gently in a double boiler if needed for crafting or repurposing into liquid soap.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different types of fats for making soap?
Yes, you can experiment with various types of fats such as coconut oil, olive oil, or even animal fats like tallow. Each fat will impart different qualities to the soap, such as hardness and moisturizing properties, so choose based on your desired outcome.
What if my soap doesn't reach the jellylike consistency?
If your mixture doesn't reach the desired jellylike consistency, ensure that you are stirring constantly and at the correct temperature. If it remains too thin, you may need to cook it a bit longer over low heat while continuing to stir until it thickens.
Is it possible to add color to my soap?
Absolutely! You can add natural colorants such as turmeric for yellow, spirulina for green, or beet powder for pink. Just be sure to add them at the right stage of the process to ensure even distribution throughout the soap mixture.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).