Benefits of Coconut Oil

Coconut oil is a popular choice in soap making due to its excellent lathering properties and cleansing abilities. It helps create a bubbly and rich foam, making your soap feel luxurious. However, it’s essential to balance coconut oil with other oils, as it can be drying if used in excess.

Benefits of Olive Oil

Olive oil is renowned for its moisturizing properties. It helps to nourish and hydrate the skin, making it an excellent companion to coconut oil. Olive oil also contributes to the hardness of the soap, ensuring it lasts longer.

To make your coconut oil and olive oil soap, you will need the following ingredients:

12 oz. Coconut Oil
20 oz. Olive Oil
4.5 oz. Sodium Hydroxide (Lye)
12 oz. Water

Equipment Required

Safety gear (gloves and goggles)
Stainless steel pot
Digital scale
Heat-proof container for mixing lye
Stick blender
Soap mold (2 lbs. size)
Various containers for weighing ingredients

Step 1: Prepare Your Workspace

Ensure your workspace is clean and well-ventilated. Gather all your ingredients and equipment before starting. Wear gloves and goggles to protect yourself from lye.

Step 2: Measure the Water and Lye

Weigh out 12 oz. of water and pour it into a heat-proof container. In a separate container, measure 4.5 oz. of lye. Carefully add the lye to the water (never the other way around) while stirring gently. This mixture will heat up and become clear as it cools.

Step 3: Melt the Oils

In a stainless steel pot, combine 12 oz. of coconut oil and 20 oz. of olive oil. Heat on low until the coconut oil is fully melted. Remove from heat and let it cool until it reaches a temperature similar to the lye mixture (between 85°F and 110°F).

Step 4: Combine Lye and Oils

Once both the lye mixture and oils are at the right temperature, carefully pour the lye solution into the pot of oils. Using a stick blender, blend the mixture until it reaches a medium trace (similar to pancake batter).

Step 5: Optional Additions

If you wish to add scents or additional ingredients (like oatmeal or essential oils), now is the time to do so. Stir them in gently.

Step 6: Pour into Molds

Pour the soap mixture into your prepared mold. Cover it with a towel and let it sit undisturbed for 24 to 48 hours.

Step 7: Unmold and Cure

Once the soap has hardened, remove it from the mold and cut it into bars. Allow the bars to cure in a dry place for at least 30 days. This curing time allows the soap to harden and ensures that any remaining lye is neutralized.

Safety First: Always wear protective gear when handling lye, as it is caustic and can cause burns.
Measure Accurately: Use a digital scale for precise measurements to ensure the safety and quality of your soap.
Experiment: Feel free to experiment with different essential oils or additives to create unique scents and textures.

Making coconut oil and olive oil soap at home is not only fun but also allows you to create a product tailored to your preferences. With just a few ingredients and some careful steps, you can enjoy the benefits of handmade soap that nourishes your skin. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced soap maker, this recipe is a fantastic way to explore the art of soap making! Enjoy your crafting journey!