Here’s a simple recipe for making liquid soap using potassium hydroxide (KOH). This recipe will yield a mild, moisturizing liquid soap suitable for handwashing or body care. Please remember to follow safety precautions when handling KOH, as it is caustic and can cause burns.
Ingredients:
1. Oils (total 1000g):
– Olive oil: 500g
– Coconut oil: 300g
– Castor oil: 200g
2. Potassium Hydroxide (KOH): 140g
(The exact amount may vary based on the saponification values of the oils used; calculate properly.)
3. Distilled Water: 380g (for lye solution) + 500g (for dilution after saponification)
4. Optional Additives (for fragrance or color):
– Essential oils (e.g., lavender, tea tree): 20-30g
– Colorants (optional)
Equipment Needed:
- Digital scale
- Heat-resistant container for mixing
- Stick blender
- Thermometer
- Safety goggles and gloves
- Measuring spoons
- Large pot for cooking
- pH strips (to test the final product)
- Bottles for storage
Instructions:
1. Put on safety goggles and gloves. Work in a well-ventilated area.
2. Measure 380g of distilled water into a heat-resistant container. Slowly add 140g of KOH to the water (never the other way around), stirring gently until fully dissolved. The mixture will heat up significantly. Set aside to cool.
3. Weigh out your oils in a large pot. Combine the olive oil, coconut oil, and castor oil. Heat the oils gently until they reach about 100°F (38°C).
4. When both the lye solution and oils are around the same temperature (100°F), slowly pour the lye solution into the oils while stirring continuously.
5. Use a stick blender to mix the oils and lye solution until you reach “trace,” which means the mixture thickens and leaves a trail when you drizzle some of it over the surface.
6. Cover the pot and cook the soap on low heat for about 1-2 hours, stirring occasionally. The soap will go through a gel phase and become translucent.
7. Once the soap is fully cooked (it should be a thick paste), remove it from heat. Slowly add 500g of distilled water to the soap paste, stirring well to incorporate the water. The soap will become thinner and more liquid.
8. Use pH strips to check the pH of the soap. It should be between 9 and 10. If it’s too high, you can dilute it further with more distilled water.
9. If using essential oils or colorants, add them now and stir well to combine.
10. Allow the soap to cool before pouring it into clean, sanitized bottles.
11. Let the soap sit for 24-48 hours before using to ensure it has properly thickened and any residual heat has dissipated.
Notes:
– Always double-check your calculations for KOH and water. The amount of KOH needed can vary based on the specific oils used. Use a lye calculator for precise measurements.
– Store the soap in a cool, dry place. Liquid soap can separate over time; simply shake it before use.
Safety Precautions:
– Handle KOH with care, as it can cause burns. Always wear gloves and goggles when working with lye.
– Ensure that all equipment is clean and free from contaminants.
Enjoy your homemade liquid soap!
Aprile's Kitchen 