Introduction

Are you tired of throwing away used cooking oil after each use? Did you know that you can transform that used cooking oil into liquid soap? Making your own soap not only saves you money but also helps you reduce waste and be more eco-friendly. In this article, we will guide you on how to make liquid soap from used cooking oil.

What You Will Need

To make liquid soap from used cooking oil, you will need:

• Used cooking oil
• Sodium hydroxide (lye)
• Water
• Essential oils (optional)
• Protective gear (gloves, goggles, and long sleeves)
• Stainless steel pot and stirring utensil
• Plastic containers for storage

The Process

Before you begin, ensure that you are wearing protective gear to avoid any accidents. Here is the step-by-step process:

Step 1: Measure the Oil and Lye

Measure the used cooking oil and lye according to the recipe you are using. It is essential to be precise with your measurements to avoid any complications in the soap-making process.

Step 2: Mix the Lye and Water

In a stainless steel pot, mix the lye and water. Stir until the lye dissolves completely. This mixture will heat up, so be cautious.

Step 3: Heat the Oil

Heat the used cooking oil in another pot until it reaches approximately 120-130°F. Remove it from the heat source and let it cool down.

Step 4: Combine the Lye and Oil

Slowly pour the lye solution into the pot of heated oil while stirring continuously. This step requires patience and caution as the mixture will heat up and release fumes.

Step 5: Blend the Mixture

Using a stick blender, blend the mixture until it thickens and reaches trace. Trace is the point at which the mixture thickens enough to leave a visible trail when the blender is lifted.

Step 6: Add Essential Oils (Optional)

If you prefer scented soap, you can add a few drops of essential oils and blend the mixture again.

Step 7: Let the Mixture Cool Down

Pour the mixture into plastic containers and let it cool down for 24-48 hours. During this time, the soap will harden and be ready for use.

Step 8: Test the pH Level

After 24-48 hours, test the pH level of the soap. The ideal pH level is between 8-10. If the pH level is too high, add citric acid to lower it.

Step 9: Dilute the Soap

Dilute the soap by adding water to achieve the desired consistency. You can add more essential oils at this stage to enhance the scent.

Step 10: Store the Soap

Pour the diluted soap into pump bottles or any other container of your choice. Store the soap in a cool, dry place away from sunlight.

Conclusion

Making liquid soap from used cooking oil is simple and cost-effective. With this guide, you can transform your used cooking oil into a useful product that you can use for cleaning your home. Remember to be cautious during the soap-making process and always wear protective gear. Happy soap-making!