How to Make Homemade Soap Without Lye

Step 1

Grate 8 ounces of soap. (Two regular size bars.) A cheese grater works well, as does a salad shooter. A food processor also works.

Step 2

Sprinkle 1-2 ounces water or other liquid over the grated soap.

Step 3

Heat on low setting in a double boiler or crock pot. You can also place in oven-safe pot and heat in the oven at lowest setting. Stir frequently to avoid burning. This can take anywhere from 15 minutes to an hour.

Step 4

When soap is liquefied, remove from heat. It will be somewhat lumpy and translucent.

Step 5

Add desired ingredients.(For the main photos here, I used Pink Himalayan salt and dried rose petals from my daughter's wedding. I added Rose Geranium essential oil which created a lovely rose scent.)

Step 6

Stir to desired consistency. Pour (or spoon) soap mixture into molds. I placed some dried rose petals on the bottom of this flower mold.

Step 7

Cool the soap and remove from mold (place mold into freezer for up to 1 hour to make this easier). Cut into desired sizes and shapes using a soap cutter or a food scraper/shovel.The mold used in the above photo is this one.

Step 8

Allow soap to dry for several days or more. Note that the more liquid you use the longer it will take to cure.

Step 9

Dry the soap thoroughly between uses to extend its life.