How to Make Olive Oil Soap Using the Hot Process Method

Olive oil soap is a classic and gentle option for those looking to create their own natural skincare products. The hot process method of soap making is a quicker way to produce soap, allowing you to use it within a day or two. In this article, we’ll guide you through a simple olive oil soap recipe using the hot process method, along with essential tips and tricks to ensure your soap-making experience is successful.

Olive OilEdible Oilrecipe

What is Hot Process Soap Making?

Hot process soap making involves cooking the soap mixture, which speeds up the saponification process—the chemical reaction that transforms oils and lye into soap. Unlike the cold process method, which requires a lengthy curing time, hot process soap can be used shortly after it has cooled and hardened. This method is particularly appealing for beginners who want to see quick results.

Ingredients for Olive Oil Soap

To make olive oil soap using the hot process method, you will need the following ingredients:

    Olive Oil: 325 grams (75% of the total oils)
    Coconut Oil: 125 grams (25% of the total oils)
    Distilled Water: 165.78 grams
    Sodium Hydroxide (Lye): 66.31 grams

Equipment Needed

    Crockpot
    Digital scale
    Lye-safe container (preferably plastic)
    Immersion blender
    Soap mold (can be a silicone mold, loaf pan, or any container lined with parchment paper)
    Safety gear (gloves, goggles, long-sleeved shirt)
    Vinegar (for neutralizing spills)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare Your Workspace

Ensure that your workspace is well-ventilated and free of clutter. Put on your safety gear, including gloves and goggles, to protect yourself from the lye.

2. Measure Your Ingredients

Using a digital scale, accurately measure out all your ingredients. Precision is crucial in soap making to ensure the proper chemical reaction occurs.

3. Mix the Lye Solution

In a well-ventilated area, slowly add the lye to the distilled water while stirring. Important: Always add lye to water, not the other way around, to prevent a dangerous reaction. The mixture will heat up and produce fumes, so avoid inhaling them directly.

4. Heat the Oils

In your crockpot, add the olive oil and coconut oil. Turn the crockpot on low and allow the oils to warm until they are fully melted.

5. Combine Lye and Oils

Once the lye solution has cooled (to about 100°F), slowly pour it into the warmed oils while stirring continuously.

6. Blend to Trace

Using an immersion blender, mix the soap until it reaches "trace." This is when the mixture thickens and leaves a trail when drizzled over itself, resembling pudding. This process usually takes about 5-10 minutes.

7. Cook the Soap

Cover the crockpot and let the soap cook on low for 30-45 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent it from bubbling over. The soap will rise and fall during cooking.

8. Check for Doneness

To check if the soap is ready, perform the “zap test” by placing a small amount on your tongue. If it doesn’t zap you, the soap is ready to pour into molds. If it does zap, continue cooking for a bit longer.

9. Pour into Molds

Once the soap is done, pour it into your prepared molds. Smooth out the top with a spatula if desired.

10. Unmold and Cure

Allow the soap to set for 12-24 hours. Once hardened, remove it from the mold and cut it into bars. Although hot process soap can be used right away, allowing it to cure for 1-2 weeks will improve its texture and lather.

Benefits of Olive Oil Soap

Olive oil soap is renowned for its moisturizing properties and is suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin. The high oleic acid content in olive oil helps to nourish and hydrate the skin without stripping its natural oils.

Conclusion

Making olive oil soap using the hot process method is a rewarding and enjoyable project that results in a high-quality product. With just a few simple ingredients and some basic equipment, you can create your own natural soap that is gentle on the skin. Remember to take all safety precautions seriously, especially when handling lye. Enjoy your soap-making journey and the benefits of using your very own handmade olive oil soap!

For more detailed guidance, check out Coconut + Olive Oil Hot Process Soap and other resources on hot process soap making. Happy crafting!

FAQs about Making Olive Oil Soap Using the Hot Process Method

1. What is the hot process method of soap making?
The hot process method involves cooking the soap mixture to speed up the saponification process, allowing the soap to be used within a day or two, unlike the cold process which requires a longer curing time.
2. What ingredients do I need to make olive oil soap?
To make olive oil soap, you need 325 grams of olive oil, 125 grams of coconut oil, 165.78 grams of distilled water, and 66.31 grams of sodium hydroxide (lye).
3. What safety precautions should I take when making soap?
Always wear safety gear such as gloves and goggles, work in a well-ventilated area, and remember to add lye to water (not the other way around) to prevent dangerous reactions.
4. How long does it take for hot process olive oil soap to cure?
While hot process soap can be used right away, allowing it to cure for 1-2 weeks improves its texture and lather.

Your Source for Premium Olive Oil

Get Wholesale pricingReduce ingredient costs by 5-10%

Read more articles

Ready to source an ingredient?

Whether you’re struggling to find the perfect ingredient, racing against the clock, or simply don’t have the bandwidth to manage sourcing — we’ve got your back.

Get a Free Sourcing Audit
About Us imageReviewsAbout Us image

See what our customers say about us

Chubby Snacks

Savings is BIG but the relationship value is MASSIVE! Glad we met when we did. Looking forward to building this partnership with you and David.

Dillon Ceglio
Co-Founder & CEO
Maxine's Heavenly

Yohan, here to say you’re one of my favorite suppliers. Aside from your high quality ingredients, you’re so great to work with. Thanks for all the help you’ve given us this year.

Robert Petrarca
Co-Founder & CEO
TCHO Chocolate

Working with Global Savors and Yohan has been very smooth when sourcing ingredients. They offer a great selection and and cost savings! Yohan has been awesome to work with and we look forward to continuing business together.

Crystel Castillo
Procurement

Serving Brands In 15,000 + Locations


Target
Kroger
Walmart
AlbertSons
Costco
Whole Foods Market

About Us

Global Savors is your trusted partner for seamless ingredient sourcing, offering end-to-end solutions that streamline procurement, simplify logistics, and elevate your supply chain efficiency.

News Feed

View More News

Follow On

Subscribe To Our Newsletter For More Updates

© 2025 Copyrights by Global Savors. All Rights Reserved