Soap Making FAQ
Since I started teaching soap making in 2015, I have been asked some great questions that always prompt further discussion and as such they add real value to each one of my soap making workshops.
I have written a number of blog posts over recent years to share the frequently asked questions that pop up during my soap making classes and I would like to share some more of these questions here.
Can I keep handmade soap in a sealed container?
Storing cold process soap in a sealed container is not a good idea because it needs to ‘breathe’ and it needs maximum ventilation to be able to do so. During the curing process cold process soap loses water through evaporation which it would not be able to do in a sealed container and there would be a build-up of condensation inside the container which in turn would make the soap mushy. The best place to store handmade soap is either on shelves or in ventilated storage trays which is what I like to use. The soap can be covered with greaseproof paper to protect it from dust. Store it in a cool, dry place away from sunlight.
What happens if I use my soap before the curing period is completed?
Cold process soap needs to be cured for at least 4 weeks to allow the saponification process to complete. If you used it before this process is complete it might irritate your skin as the lye may not be fully cancelled out before the 4 weeks. Waiting is the difficult part of soap making which I fully understand as I am not a very patient person. But waiting can also be exciting as the anticipation builds until you can use your natural soap.
Does handmade soap expire?
The answer to this question really depends on the ingredients that are used in a recipe. I still have a bar of soap from the first batch of soap that I made in 2012, and it is fine. It was made with 100% olive oil and was unscented. If a fragrance has been added, then this will gradually fade over time, but the soap would still be ok to use. But like I said it depends on the ingredients and it can be a matter of trial and error. And soap that is made with a superfat over 5% may not last as long because some of the oils are more prone to going rancid.
Can I sell my handmade soap?
Yes of course you can but you will need to comply with cosmetics regulations. I have written a blog post about this very subject which you can read here.
Can I melt my soap once it’s made?
You can’t melt cold process soap, but you can grate it and use a method known as rebatching if your soap doesn't turn out right. I have only tried rebatching once and the soap did not liquify but it was rather a thick texture and the bars were not neat and smooth.
Does the weather affect the curing process?
The weather can affect how cold process soap cures, including the temperature, humidity, and sunlight. Soap should be cured in a dry place away from direct sunlight.
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