🧼 How to Make Liquid Soap at Home: A Step-by-Step Guide
Learning how to make liquid soap at home is one of the most useful and affordable skills you can gain. Not only does it help you save money, but it can also become a small business opportunity if done well. Let’s walk through everything you need to know, from materials to the final product.
🧾 Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s a simple list of materials you can find in local chemical shops or online stores:
1. SLS (Sodium Lauryl Sulfate) – ¼ cup (for foaming)
2. STTP (Sodium Tripolyphosphate) – 1 tablespoon (helps soften water and clean better)
3. Texapon – 2 tablespoons (gives thickness and lather)
4. Caustic Soda – 1 tablespoon (cleansing agent; handle with care)
5. Soda Ash – 2 tablespoons (removes grease)
6. Sulphonic Acid – 3 tablespoons (main cleaning ingredient)
7. Perfume or Essential Oil – to your liking (for fragrance)
8. Color (Dye or Pigment) – a small quantity (optional)
9. Water – about 10 liters (preferably clean, warm water)
⚗️ Equipment Needed
A large plastic bowl or bucket
A wooden stick or plastic stirrer
A measuring cup or spoon
A funnel
Empty containers or bottles for packaging.
🧪 Step-by-Step Process
Step 1: Dissolve the Caustic Soda
In a small bowl, dissolve your caustic soda in a little warm water. Set it aside to cool.
Step 2: Mix the Soda Ash
In another container, dissolve soda ash in warm water and leave it to settle.
Step 3: Prepare Your Sulphonic Acid
Pour the sulphonic acid into your main mixing bucket. Add the Texapon and stir gently until they blend smoothly.
Step 4: Add the Caustic Soda & Soda Ash Solutions
Pour the dissolved caustic soda and soda ash into your main mix while stirring continuously.
Step 5: Add SLS and STTP
Add the SLS and STTP, then stir thoroughly for several minutes until everything blends well.
Step 6: Add Perfume and Color
Finally, add your fragrance and color. Mix until you get your desired scent and appearance.
Step 7: Add Water Gradually
Pour in the remaining water slowly while stirring until you achieve your desired thickness.
Step 8: Allow to Settle
Leave the mixture for about 6–12 hours to let bubbles disappear and ingredients fully combine.
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🧴 Packaging & Storage
Use a funnel to pour your soap into clean plastic bottles or jerrycans. Label them if you plan to sell or give them out. Store in a cool, dry place.
