How to make your own soap at home in a completely sustainable way

Nowadays, concerns about the environment and sustainability are increasingly present in people's lives.

One way to contribute to a more sustainable world is to produce our own cleaning products, such as soap, at home.

Besides being a more economical option, making your own soap also allows you to avoid the use of harmful chemicals and unnecessary plastic packaging.

In this article, we'll give you a complete guide on how to make your own soap at home, in a completely sustainable way.

We'll explore the natural and biodegradable ingredients you can use, the equipment you'll need, and share a basic recipe to get you started.

You can make sustainable soap yourself

There is no need to be a chemical expert or have advanced soap making skills.

With a few simple ingredients and a little patience, you can create a soap that's free of toxins and good for your skin and the environment.

So, if you're ready to venture into making your own sustainable soap, keep reading and discover how easy and rewarding it is to make this change in your daily life.

Be prepared to be amazed by the results and become an advocate for conscious and ecological consumption.

Tutorial for making your own soap at home in a completely sustainable way

Making your own soap at home sustainably is a great way to reduce the use of chemicals and disposable plastics.

Plus, you can customize the recipe to your fragrance preferences and natural ingredients.

Follow this complete tutorial to learn how to make your own soap at home in a completely sustainable way.

Materials needed:

– Vegetable oils (such as olive oil, coconut oil, almond oil, castor oil, etc.)

– Sodium hydroxide (also known as caustic soda)

– Distilled water

– Essential oils (optional)

– Natural dyes (optional)

– Silicone molds or glass containers

Step 1: Preparation

Before you start making soap, make sure you're in a well-ventilated area. Wear rubber gloves and safety glasses to avoid contact with the lye.

It is important to follow all safety precautions during the process.

Step 2: Weigh the ingredients

Weigh the vegetable oils according to your chosen recipe. Be sure to use an accurate scale to get the correct measurements.

Write down the amount of oil so you can calculate the corresponding amount of caustic soda needed.

Step 3: Dissolve the caustic soda

In a separate container, add distilled water and gradually pour in the caustic soda, stirring with a wooden spoon in circular motions.

Be careful when handling caustic soda, as it can be dangerous. Stay in a well-ventilated area during preparation.

Step 4: Heat the oils

In a large saucepan, heat the vegetable oils over low heat. Be careful not to overheat the oils to prevent them from losing their beneficial properties.

Step 5: Mix the caustic soda with the oils

When the lye is completely dissolved in the water, add it to the heated oils, stirring constantly to combine the ingredients.

Make sure the temperature is below 50°C to avoid any violent reaction.

Step 6: Add essential oils and natural colors

If you want to add fragrance or color to your soap, now is the time to do it. Add a few drops of essential oils and natural colorants to the mixture, stirring well to distribute evenly.

Step 7: Pour into molds

Pour the soap mixture into the molds or glass containers. Make sure they are clean and dry before using. Tap the mold lightly on the surface to eliminate any air bubbles.

Step 8: Wait for the soap to harden

Let the soap sit at room temperature for at least 24 hours, or until completely hardened. This can take up to a few weeks, depending on the recipe and the weather.

Step 9: Unmold and cut the soap

When the soap is completely hardened, remove it from the molds and cut into smaller pieces if desired.

Let the soap bars cure on a ventilated shelf for a few more weeks before using them.

Benefits of Homemade Soap for Health and the Environment

Making your own soap at home is not only a way to save money, but it also brings several benefits to your health and the planet:

• Free from harsh chemicals: Unlike commercial soaps, homemade soap does not contain preservatives, artificial colors, or synthetic fragrances that can irritate the skin or cause allergies.

• Natural hydration: By using nourishing plant-based oils like olive oil and coconut oil, your homemade soap can help keep your skin hydrated and protected.

• Reducing plastic waste: Producing your own soap allows you to reduce the consumption of disposable packaging, reducing the amount of plastic waste generated.

• Lower environmental impact: Natural and biodegradable ingredients ensure that homemade soap causes less pollution to rivers and soil, protecting fauna and flora.

• Conscious personalization: You control the ingredients used, avoiding toxic substances and choosing essential oils with therapeutic properties, making the product healthier for your family.

Tips for Storing and Using Your Sustainable Soap

To ensure your homemade soap lasts longer and maintains its quality, some simple storage and usage practices are important:

• Store in a dry, ventilated place: Avoid leaving soap in humid places, such as near the sink, as moisture can soften it quickly.

• Use suitable dish soap: Choose soap dishes that allow water to drain to prevent the soap from becoming soggy.

• Cut into smaller pieces: Divide the soap into smaller bars for easier use and to avoid waste.

• Let the soap cure well: After cutting, keep the soap curing for at least 4 to 6 weeks in a ventilated place to ensure the best texture and durability.

• Avoid mixing with other products: Use pure soap to preserve its natural properties and avoid mixing it with chemicals that can compromise its effectiveness.

By following these tips, you can make the most of your sustainable soap, contributing to a healthier, more eco-friendly lifestyle.

Conclusion

By following this tutorial, you can make your own soap at home in a completely sustainable way.

Remember to always take safety precautions when handling caustic soda and follow the instructions in your chosen recipe.

Enjoy the creative process of making your own soap and enjoy an eco-friendly, personalized product!