FAQs
What is cold process soap?
Cold process soap is made by dissolving lye (sodium hydroxide) and distilled water, then mixing it with oils, fragrance or essential oil, and any additives. The soap then undergoes saponification in 24 hours and solidifies into soap. The soap is then cured for at least 4 weeks so any additional water can evaporate and make a solid, long lasting bar.
Why do you use lye (sodium hydroxide) in your soap?
Lye is not as scary as it sounds. It is necessary in the saponification process, which turns oils into soap. Learn more here.
How can you make sure you're using the correct amount of lye and there isn't any left in the soap?
I started recipe formulation with a known recipe. I ran that recipe through a lye calculator, which uses the saponification number of the oils to calculate exactly how much lye is needed to completely react with the oils. I superfat my soaps so that there is additional oil leftover after the lye has been completely used up. Then, I test the soap on myself.
How long will my soap last?
Your soap will last longer if you let it dry between uses. Keep it in a soap dish that drains and out of any direct streams of water.
Why is handmade soap better than store bought soap?
Store bought soap is formulated with detergents and all kinds of fun ingredients. Most store bought "bar soap" is actually called a cleansing bar, beauty bar, or bath bar, not soap. Legally, these items cannot be called soap. They don't have the same molecular structure, even though they work similarly.
Why does this soap look different from what's on the website?
Soap is handmade, useable art. You might get the bar that was in the photo, but it's more likely that you'll get one from another mold or a different location in the mold. You might get soap from a different batch. The soap will have the same smell, but may vary slightly in swirl details, line thickness, and color.
What is the difference between fragrance oil and essential oil?
Essential oils are extracted directly from their source by a distillation process. Fragrance oils are specifically manufactured to create the desired scent profile. If your skin is easily irritated by fragrances, try using one of the soaps from our Good Stuff line!
When will my order be shipped?
I ship individual customer orders within 3-5 business days of your received payment. Orders placed during the holiday season often take longer, especially if you are placing a custom order, or if your order is especially large. Please contact me if you have any questions or requests specific to your order. I’d be happy to help!
Do you do custom or wholesale orders?
I do! Use the contact form for any inquiries. For wholesale or custom orders, please allow 4-6 weeks.
Are you insured?
Yes! I am a member of the Indie Business Network, and I purchase my insurance through them.
