This basic cold-process soap formulation is a starting point for makers. Always add lye to water (never the reverse) and wear full PPE – see our sodium hydroxide safety guide.

Steps

Weigh all materials precisely on a digital scale.
Slowly add the sodium hydroxide to cold water (never water to lye) and stir; the solution heats up. Let it cool to ~40 °C.
Warm the oils to ~40 °C.
Combine the lye solution and oils; blend to “trace”.
Add glycerine and fragrance, pour into a mould.
Cover, insulate 24 hours, unmould, then cure 4-6 weeks.

Makes ~1 kg soap Time 45 min + 24-48h cure Level Intermediate