Expert: Terry Knorr - 6/8/2006

Question
Terry - I know this is a crazy question to bother you with, but here goes.  Over the past 24 years I have saved the small courtesy hotel soaps from DH's traveling conferences.  I would like to shave/chunk them up and be able to pour them into a big pan that I can let them set and cut them into big useable sizes.  Could you give me some guidance in how to do this?  I'd appreciate any help or suggestions you might have for me.  Thanks a bunch.  Rosalie

Answer
Hi Rosalie!

The method that works best for me is as follows:
1.  Using an old grater, shred the soap as fine as possible
2.  Heat water in a large pot.  Do not let it boil, but heat it to nearly boiling.
3.  Begin adding the shreded soap.  Add just a little.  When that melts, add some more.  Continue stirring the mixture until you remove it from the heat.  Do this until all the soap is melted.  You might have to add  water from time to time.  You will need to be careful not to let all the water evaporate or the soap will scorch.  It is possible that not all the soap pieces will melt.  This is OK.  It will give the finished soap an interesting appearance.
4.  Pour (or spoon) the soap into a mold.  The soap will release from the mold more easily if you put it in a freezer.  When it  is solid, immediately take it out of the freezer and take the soap out of the mold.
5.  Place the soap on a screen to dry.  This could take  several weeks, depending on how much water was in the soap when you poured it into  the mold.  However, you can use the soap as soon as it is cooled, if you want.  It will not be caustic.

I hope this is helpful to you.  If you have any other questions, feel free to contact me.  

By the way, if you want to add some scent, you can do so after the soap is melted and before pouring it into the mold.

Have a Great Day!
Terry