Glycerin is a natural byproduct of the soap-making process. All soap initially contains glycerin but commercial soap makers often remove the glycerin and replace it with other softening agents. Glycerin removal requires an industrial steam and filter process that is beyond the means of most home soap makers, therefore, all homemade soap still has glycerin. However, you can make your own, non-glycerin, scented soaps by using unscented commercial soap and adding your own fragrances.
Morning Mocha Latte Soap
Step 1
Grate the soap bars into a ceramic or heat-safe glass bowl. If you use a food processor, use a coarse setting and chop or grate the soap into flakes--then transfer the grated soap to a glass or ceramic bowl.
Step 2
Add the coffee grounds, cocoa powder and powdered milk to the grated soap. Use the spatula to blend the mixture. The soap should have a uniform brownish tint.
Step 3
Dissolve 2 tbsp. of instant coffee in 1/4 cup of hot water. Pour the coffee mixture into the soap and stir with the spatula. You should have a slightly doughy paste.
Step 4
Shape the paste into two bar-shaped loaves with your hands. You can also form the paste into balls or spread it into small soap molds.
Step 5
Spread a sheet of wax paper onto a cookie sheet and place the soap loaves (or balls) onto the wax paper. If you are using a soap mold, leave the paste in the mold until it dries. It takes approximately two days for the soap to dry completely.
Tips and Warnings
- To store your soap, wrap it in wax paper and use it like you would any other soap. Experiment with your own scent combinations. Try essential oils and soap fragrances--available at craft stores and online.
- This soap will melt quickly so keep it dry between uses. Do not allow it to sit in water.
Things You'll Need
- Cheese grater or food processor
- Silicone spatula
- Ceramic or glass bowl
- Cookie sheet
- Wax paper
- Two (3.5 oz) bars of mild, unscented castille soap
- 1 tbsp. cocoa powder
- 2 tbsp. coffee grounds
- 3 tbsp. powdered milk
- 2 tbsp. instant coffee
- 1/4 cup hot water
References
- Book: "The Herbal Home Spa," Greta Breedlove, 1998
- Book: "Making Natural Liquid Soaps," Catherine Failor, 2000
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