A biodegradable soap is often used by hikers and campers since it decomposes naturally. Read on for more information.
Biodegradable soaps are non-toxic and the organic oils used to make these soaps are environment friendly. These oils help you relax and soothe your aching body. Besides adding a nice fragrance, the soaps also form a part of a therapeutic bathing experience.
These soaps can also be used to bathe babies as no chemicals are being used here. If people are suffering from certain skin problems like dry skin, or skin which is prone to pimples and so on, then it's recommended that these soaps be used.
Depending on the chemical content, they can be used for washing clothes and utensils and are available in bars and liquid form. The liquid varieties are easier for the hikers or trekkers to carry around as they don't have access to bathing water everywhere.
♠ Protective gloves and glasses ♠ Cooking pan ♠ Measuring cups ♠ Thick cloth ♠ Knife ♠ Wax paper ♠ Container with lid (preferably plastic) ♠ A wooden spoon
Directions
» First make sure that you have worn your protective glasses and gloves for protecting your eyes and hands.
» Then, make 1 cup of coffee and put it in the refrigerator to cool. In the measuring cup, measure 7 ounces of lye and add the coffee to it.
» While you are dealing with the lye, make sure that you are in an open area as the fumes from the lye, if inhaled, can be harmful.
» Mix the three types of oil which you have i.e. coconut, soy and olive, and heat it over a medium flame.
» In the meantime, do keep checking the temperature of the coffee and lye mixture. The former gets heated up due to the latter. So keep checking the temperature until it reaches 100ºF to 110ºF.
» Likewise, heat the oil mixture to the same temperature. Use the thermometer to measure the correct temperature.
» Now, mix these two mixtures and keep stirring them with a wooden spoon, till they become thick like honey.
» Now, pour the mixture into a plastic container and close the lid and wrap it in a thick cloth. Keep it like this for the next 48 hours.
» Once the stipulated time is over, leave the container open for another 24 hours if the soap is still soft
» Once the soap achieves the desired hardness take it out and put it on the wax paper. Now, cut it into bars using a knife.
» Before using it, just run the knife under hot water and you will see how easier it will be for you to cut the soap.
» For the next 3 or 4 weeks, allow the soap to cure.
Now you have your own, safe, natural, homemade soap. These soaps are not only good for your skin and clothes, but they are also eco-friendly. So next time you buy a soap, make sure that you buy a biodegradable one or better still, make one at home!