Canola oil is a vegetable oil derived from the seeds of the canola plant, a type of rapeseed. It is commonly used in cooking due to its light flavor and high smoke point. In soapmaking, canola oil is valued for its moisturizing properties and ability to create a stable lather, making it a popular choice among hobbyists and professionals alike.

Using canola oil in your soap recipe comes with several benefits:

Cost-Effective: Canola oil is generally less expensive than other oils, such as olive oil, making it an economical choice for soapmakers (Source: Soapmaking Forum).
Moisturizing: It is known for its moisturizing properties, which can be beneficial for dry skin (Source: Hina Sakazaki).
Lather Quality: Canola oil contributes to a stable lather, although it may not produce as much bubble action as coconut oil (Source: Soapmaking Forum).

While canola oil has its advantages, there are a few considerations to keep in mind:

Rancidity: Canola oil can be prone to rancidity, also known as Dreaded Orange Spots (DOS), if not stored properly. It is advisable to limit the percentage of canola oil in your recipe to around 15-20% and consider adding antioxidants like rosemary oleoresin to prolong its shelf life (Source: Soapmaking Forum).
Blend with Other Oils: For the best results, canola oil is often blended with other oils, such as coconut or olive oil, to enhance the soap's characteristics (Source: Crafty Gemini).

Here’s a basic recipe to make soap using canola oil. This recipe is suitable for beginners and requires only a few ingredients.

Ingredients

Canola Oil: 25% (approximately 204g)
Coconut Oil: 25% (approximately 204g)
Olive Oil: 25% (approximately 204g)
Distilled Water: 258.5g
Sodium Hydroxide (Lye): 97.8g
Essential Oils (optional): 21.3g for fragrance

Equipment Needed

Kitchen scale
Mixing container
Stick blender
Soap mold
Safety gear (gloves, goggles, mask)

Instructions

Prepare Your Workspace: Ensure your area is clean and well-ventilated. Wear safety gear to protect yourself from lye.

Measure Ingredients: Accurately weigh the oils and the lye. Remember to follow safety guidelines when handling lye, as it is caustic.

Mix the Lye Solution: Carefully add the lye to the distilled water (never the other way around) and stir until dissolved. Allow the solution to cool.

Heat the Oils: In a separate container, gently heat the canola, coconut, and olive oils until they reach about 110-130°F.

Combine Lye and Oils: Once both the lye solution and oils are at a similar temperature, slowly pour the lye solution into the oils while blending with a stick blender.

Blend to Trace: Continue blending until the mixture reaches "trace," which means it thickens and leaves a trail when drizzled over the surface.

Add Fragrance: If desired, add essential oils at this stage and mix well.

Pour into Mold: Transfer the soap mixture into your mold, smoothing the top if necessary.

Cure the Soap: Cover the mold and let it sit for 24 hours. After that, unmold and cut the soap into bars. Allow the bars to cure in a ventilated area for 4-6 weeks before use.

Making soap with canola oil is not only economical but also allows for creativity and personalization in your skincare routine. By following this simple recipe and keeping in mind the considerations regarding rancidity and oil blending, you can create a beautiful, moisturizing soap that you and your loved ones will enjoy. Happy soapmaking!