Learn how to make cold process soap from scratch with this easy, step-by-step guide. Create natural, chemical-free bars right at home using simple ingredients and equipment.

Making soap was one of the first self-sufficient skills I embraced on my journey toward a more mindful and natural lifestyle. As I began to question the ingredients in the foods we consumed, I realized that what we apply to our skin deserved the same careful consideration. Store-bought soaps often contain harsh chemicals and additives, and I wanted to learn a skill that aligned with my values of simplicity and purity. So, I decided to teach myself how to make cold process soap.

I understand that many people feel apprehensive about soap making, especially when it comes to working with lye. Yes, lye is caustic, but it’s not as intimidating as it seems. With a few precautions and some common sense, you’ll find that working with lye is manageable.

Some have asked if it’s possible to make soap without lye, but the truth is, lye is essential for saponification—the process that turns fats and oils into soap. While melt and pour soaps have pre-mixed lye, they don’t teach you the full process. For a true understanding of soap making, you’ll need to work with lye.

How Is Soap Made?

In simple terms, soap is created by combining fats or oils with a liquid and lye. The lye and liquid initiate saponification, transforming the fats into the bubbly substance we recognize as soap. Historically, lye was made from wood ash, but today, we use precise measurements to ensure the right balance of fats, water, and lye.

For this recipe, I use a blend of pastured lard, coconut oil, olive oil, and sweet almond oil. If you don’t have one of these oils, don’t worry! Just input the oils you do have into a lye calculator, and it will adjust the lye and water ratios accordingly. It’s crucial to follow these measurements to ensure your soap isn’t too harsh.

But don’t be intimidated! Soap making today is highly customizable. You can use different fats or add ingredients like shea butter or beeswax. And while I typically use grass-fed beef tallow, today I chose lard, and next time, I might use deer tallow. The possibilities are endless.

Benefits of Cold Process Soap

Why make soap when store-bought options are so convenient? Store soaps often contain synthetic ingredients and fragrances that aren’t ideal for our skin. Making your own soap allows you to keep things natural, using ingredients you can trust. You can even color and scent your soap with natural ingredients or essential oils if you wish.

I love knowing exactly what’s going on my skin, and making my own soap is a way to ensure it’s all-natural and nourishing.

Customize to Your Liking

Soap making is wonderfully flexible. You can experiment with different recipes, oils, and additives. Each batch can be unique, and the process remains the same as long as you’re using water instead of milk. Run your ingredients through a lye calculator, and you’re ready to create your custom soap.

A Self-Sufficient Skill

Learning to make soap was one of the first steps I took toward becoming more self-sufficient. It’s a valuable skill that’s becoming rare in our modern world, but it’s one that empowers us to rely less on commercial products. It’s also a more cost-effective and safer alternative.

How to Stay Safe With Lye

Lye can seem intimidating, but with the right precautions, it’s quite manageable. Always wear rubber gloves, long sleeves, long pants, closed-toed shoes, and goggles when working with lye. Keep it out of reach of children and label all lye-containing items. Ensuring your workspace is safe and well-organized will help you feel more confident.

I hope this guide encourages you to try making your own soap. It’s a rewarding skill that brings you closer to a self-sufficient lifestyle, and it’s easier than it might seem.

I hope these steps inspire you to dive into making your own cold process soap and enjoy the satisfaction of crafting something natural and beautiful. For more tips, inspiration, and updates, follow me on Facebook at The Rustic Elk and on Instagram @TheRusticElk. Let’s support and encourage each other on this soapy adventure!

If you’re interested in more DIY projects, check out these posts:

• Homemade Comfrey Ointment
• How to Make Herbal Infused Oils
• Homemade Goat Milk Lotion