In times when we are looking for more sustainable and economical ways to take care of our home, making homemade soap has become an attractive alternative. Not only does it save money, but it also allows for the reuse and second life of products that would otherwise be discarded, such as used oil.

This traditional recipe is ideal for those who want a natural product, free of harsh chemicals and customized to their preferences.

With this simple recipe, you can create an effective soap with just 3 basic ingredients, plus some optional ones to enhance its fragrance and appearance.

Ingredients

• 1 liter of oil (preferably used and filtered).
• 140 gr of caustic soda (99%).
• 140 ml of water (to dissolve the soda).
• 150 ml of Disinfectant (optional, to give fragrance and bactericidal action).
• Coloring (optional, to color the soap).

Necessary elements:

• Heat-resistant container (preferably stainless steel or resistant plastic).
• Wooden spoon or hand mixer.
• Silicone molds or a container to pour the mixture.
• Protective gloves and goggles.
• Well ventilated place to work.

Steps for preparation

1. Preparation and safety: Before you begin, make sure to wear gloves and goggles, as caustic soda is a corrosive product. Perform the process in a well-ventilated place.
2. Dissolve the caustic soda: In a heatproof container, pour the 140 ml of water and, very carefully, add the 140 grams of caustic soda little by little, stirring until it is completely dissolved. Remember to add the soda to the water, not the other way around, to avoid dangerous reactions.
3. Add the oil: Allow the caustic soda solution to cool slightly. Then, slowly add the liter of oil, stirring constantly to integrate the ingredients well.
4. Add the disinfectant and colorant (optional): If desired, add 150 ml of disinfectant to give the soap fragrance and bactericidal properties. You can also add a few drops of food coloring to customize the look of the soap.
5. Stir until thickened: Continue mixing until the mixture acquires a thick, pudding-like consistency. This process can take between 30 and 60 minutes.
6. Pour into the molds: Once the mixture has reached the right consistency, pour it into silicone molds or a large container.
7. Let sit: Allow the soap to sit in the molds for 24 to 48 hours to harden.
8. Cutting and curing: After the soap has hardened, remove it from the molds and cut it into pieces. Let it cure for 4 to 6 weeks in a dry, ventilated place before use.

Additional tips:

• Additional scenting: You can add essential oils such as lavender, eucalyptus, or lemon to intensify the fragrance.
• Natural exfoliants: If you want an exfoliating soap, incorporate ingredients such as oatmeal, coffee grounds, or sea salt during the mixing process.
• Alternative oils: Olive or coconut oil can also be used for a gentler soap, although they can alter the final texture and hardness.

With this recipe, you can enjoy a homemade soap tailored to your preferences, with accessible ingredients and options to customize it to your needs!