Bar Soap

I make my own soap, but have also listed a couple EWG verified soap purchase options. My soap bars run out faster than other bars of soap. I think this is because I use use coconut oil, but I love how they lather and make my skin soft, so I won’t change my recipe or use anything else!

Couple soap purchase options (EWG verified):
• Pure Castile Bar Soap: https://amzn.to/3Il99ih - This one is peppermint, but really, any of their soap scents are considered non-toxic.
• Makes 3 Organics - Organic Coriander Ginger Oatmeal Soap: https://amzn.to/3V1NFyp - Again, this brand consistently comes up as EWG verified non-toxic.


Soap making tips
• Must have solid and liquid oil base (I use olive oil and Coconut oil).
• I use metal bowls and utensils that are not used for other projects or cooking.
• I make the following scent combos: patchouli/cedarwood, lavender/basil, rosemary/mint, and eucalyptus/basil.

1. Add 1/4C lye to 3/4C cool water or coffee (never the other way around) - Use stove fan, gloves, eye protection.
• Lye: https://amzn.to/4bMBcov
• Mix with whisk: https://amzn.to/4bKx1bW
• Chemical reaction will make mixture hot – set aside.

2. Melt and mix oils in a metal pot (2 cups total).
• 1C coconut oil - https://amzn.to/48dWGYh
• 1C olive oil - https://amzn.to/3OE7cRA
• Use a meat thermometer: https://amzn.to/3OGGub7

3. When #1 and #2 are within 10 degrees of each other, pour lye solution into the oils (if mixed at cooler temp, then soap is crumbly).
• Stir by hand for 5 min using the whisk.
• Then mix using an immersion blender to emulsify the mixture, until it resembles pudding (5-10 min) - https://amzn.to/3UHJec9

4. Add scents and texture:
• Add 1Tbs coffee grounds, oat bran, salt, etc (if you want an exfoliating type soap).
• Optional: Stir in aloe vera gel, oatmeal, milk powder, clays, etc.
• Add 1 Tbs dry herbs if desired (only use dry herbs) (I use rosemary, lavender, and basil from my garden, but you can buy the herbs from the store or farmers market as well). If using from fresh plants, clip and hang upside down in a dark closet until dried, then crush with your hands or roller. Drying can take up to 2 weeks.
• Add 20-25 drops of essential oils as desired (I use NOW essential oils: https://amzn.to/3w6lZ0U)
• Add in natural coloring as desired (I use these below, but almost anything can be used):
-Green: Chlorophyll powder: https://amzn.to/3wdVNSe
-Brown: Coffee, cocoa powder, or cinnamon
-Paprika – Orange color

5. Soap mold:
• Pour into soap mold and tap to remove air bubbles - https://amzn.to/3SyIZ0k
• Cover with plastic wrap and wrap in towel for 8-12 hours (time may depend based on humidity of your house).
• Pop out of mold and place onto plate covered by gallon Ziploc.
• Let bars sit in cool dry place for 4 weeks (saponification).

6. Clean up:
• I just place the dishes directly into the dishwasher and then store them in a separate location.

Check out https://www.ewg.org/ to find other products that might work for you!