How to Make Soap Without Using Lye

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By eHow Contributing Writer

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(17 Ratings)

Making soap with lye can be hazardous to your health. A safer alternative to creating soap from scratch is known as the melt and pour process. It's not only safer if you're looking for a craft to do with children, but it's also easier than other methods that use lye.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

Glycerin soap
Glass measuring cup
Molds
Colors (optional)
Scents (optional)
Cheese grater (optional)

Step 1

Cut or break the soap into smaller pieces. Put the small pieces into your glass measuring cup. You can also use an old cheese grater to grate the soap as well to speed up the melting process.
Step 2

Place the glass measuring cup in the microwave for one minute.
Step 3

Stir the soap and check for lumps. If you notice any lumps, microwave for 10 more seconds. Stir and continue the process until it's completely melted.
Step 4

Add color, one drop at a time. Stir, add more color if desired. Have the children help out with this.
Step 5

Add scent. Read directions on bottle, because the amount needed varies by the company. You can also add ground oatmeal or herbs at this time to make your soap a little more unique. This would be another opportunity for the little ones to help out.
Step 6

Pour soap into molds and let cool for 2 to 4 hours.
Step 7

Wiggle them out of the molds. If they seem to be stuck, place the soap molds in the freezer for about 10 minutes.

Comments

soapcrafter said

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on 6/19/2009 making soap with lye is NOT dangerous to your health!! where did you get that info?? breaking off a chunk of soap base is NOT making soap from scratch. misleading info is NOT cool and very irritating.