This recipe for homemade laundry soap is extremely easy to do at home and makes use of leftover oil.
Traditionally laundry soap was made using leftover oil and rendered down fat, often produced in large batches by multiple families heating ingredients in a communal cauldron. This recipe has been modified for a smaller batch and does not require heating over a flame.
Originally soap was made using ashes collected from the fireplace. Once mixed with water this would create a lye solution. However nowadays we can use caustic soda, making the process more convenient and accessible.
Ingredients
- 1L Leftover Oil/ Lard
- 200g Flour
- 200g Caustic Soda
- 3L Water
Equipment
- 10L Plastic Bucket
- Wooden Stick
- Knife
- Gloves/ Glasses
Method
STEP 1: Combine Ingredients
In a large plastic bucket, add the oil/lard, caustic soda, and flour. Stir well until most of the clumps dissolve. Next, gradually add the water, mixing for about 15 minutes until the mixture is silky smooth and thick in consistency.
STEP 2: Let It Sit
Let the mixture sit for 2-3 days. This duration may vary with the weather—shorter in warmer conditions.
STEP 3: Check the Consistency
After 2-3 days, the mixture should feel firm yet soft enough to leave an indentation when pressed. To remove the soap, turn the bucket upside down and firmly bang it to release the mixture. Use a knife to carefully cut around the edges to help loosen it.
STEP 4: Cut and Cure
Cut the soap into large blocks and set them aside to harden for about a month. Once fully hardened, your soap is ready for use.
Notes
- Safety First: Always wear gloves and eye protection when handling caustic soda. It is highly alkaline and can cause skin burns if it comes into contact with your skin.
- Separation Tip: After mixing, consider pouring the soap into a lined secondary container. This can make it easier to separate the soap from the original bucket once it has cured.
- Additional Note: Caustic soda can be found at most hardware stores, where it’s often used for unblocking drains.
