Olive oil has been used for centuries for its moisturizing properties and is a popular ingredient in soap making. Making soap at home with olive oil is easy and can be done using only a few simple ingredients. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to make soap at home with olive oil.

Ingredients:

1 pound of olive oil

4.4 ounces of lye (sodium hydroxide)

12 ounces of distilled water

Essential oils (optional)

Equipment:

Protective gear (gloves, goggles, and long sleeves)

Stainless steel or heat-resistant plastic mixing bowls

Scale

Thermometer

Hand mixer or immersion blender

Soap mold

Parchment paper

Instructions:

Prepare your workspace and gather all equipment and ingredients.

Put on your protective gear.

Measure out 4.4 ounces of lye and 12 ounces of distilled water in separate heat-resistant plastic or stainless steel bowls.

Slowly add the lye to the water while stirring gently with a wooden or plastic spoon. Avoid splashing or inhaling the fumes.

Allow the lye mixture to cool down to around 100°F (38°C) while you prepare the olive oil.

Measure out 1 pound of olive oil and heat it in a separate heat-resistant plastic or stainless steel bowl until it reaches around 100°F (38°C).

Add the lye mixture to the olive oil and stir gently until it reaches a light trace. This is when the mixture begins to thicken and leave a trail or “trace” behind when stirred with a spoon or hand mixer.

If desired, add essential oils to the mixture for fragrance. You can also add other herbs or flowers as desired. 

Pour the mixture into a soap mold lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Cover the soap mold with a towel or blanket to insulate it and allow it to cure for 24-48 hours.

After 24-48 hours, check if the soap is firm enough to cut into bars. If it is still too soft, allow it to cure for an additional 24-48 hours.

Once the soap is firm enough to cut, remove it from the mold and cut it into bars of desired size and shape.

Allow the bars to cure for 4-6 weeks in a cool, dry place, turning them occasionally to promote even drying.

And there you have it! Homemade olive oil soap that is natural, moisturizing, and free of harsh chemicals. Homemade olive oil soap can be made with any olive oil but we highly suggest choosing an extra-virgin olive oil from a trusted source. Our olive oils are produced on organic, sustainable farms and are perfect for all of your soap creating needs! Keep in mind that soap making involves working with lye, which can be dangerous if not handled properly. Be sure to follow all safety precautions and handle lye with care. With a little practice and patience, you can create your own unique soap using olive oil and other natural ingredients.