I Want to Make Soap and Laundry Detergent, What Supplies Will I Need?

Question

I have recently decided that I want to attempt 2 make soap. While I am familiar with the basic materials needed, Does any one know where I can find an inexpensive 12 qt pot. I also would like to know what do I need to use to mix the soap together.

I was told that using metal with lye is a big no no.

Answer 1

check your local thrift stores for cheap enamel pots or you can purchase one at walmart - that's where I got my 7 quart enamel pot --- which I use to  makes an 8lb batch of soap easily, plenty of room in the pot for all my oils and lye/water mixture. I use a 4 cup. Pyrex measuring cup for mixing water/lye

Answer 2

I make both actually.  

Soap making is a lot of fun, but there are many bad recipes out there.   So you want to find a recipe that is well balanced of the oils since they are not all created equal.   I also suggest the cold processed method and more importantly the room temp method.  

I use plastic for all of mine soap making and don't deal with metal at all.  Unless you count the blade of my stick blender.

Yes there is a link in my profile to email me, and if you want me to share more in greater detail about making soap, and different types of soap and whatnot.  I do like to share with others what I have learned.

Regarding laundry soap, this is a big topic for me and I have done a lot of research into it.  

The powdered version that uses 1-2 tbs isn't enough to clean your clothes, plus it doesn't really dissolve in cold water either, so that doesn't get your clothes clean.

Most liquid recipes contain even less active ingredients 1.5 to 3 teaspoons for most recipes on the net per load because your adding mostly water.  

So do your math and figure that into the amount of water being added.  The box of borax and the box of washing soda say to use 1/2 cup along with your regular laundry detergent to clean laundry.  So do you still think a few teaspoons or a tablespoon of a mixture of soap, borax and washing soda is enough to really clean.  

For what your adding with that small amount you might as well wash your laundry in plain water.