Expert: Terry Knorr - 3/4/2006

Question
This is my first time making cp soap. I prepared this morning and had a soap-making kit. However, When I poured the lye (flakes types) it didn't go too great. First of all the flakes got stuck and didn't pour into my glass jar smoothly . I also had some spills in my pastic tub I put my glass lye/jar in. My biggest concern is that white particles of the lye got stuck at the top of the jar. Therefore when I go to pour the lye water into the oil solution I am concerned that I'll be putting water on the lye which can cause an explosion?or negative chemical reaction. Is there anything I can do to save this? Or How would I discard of the jar of lye-water without adding water to the top of the jar.(thus adding water to lye)?..Would I add vinegar to the solution? Also how should I discard the rest of the spill? Luckily I used googles and gloves so didn't have any spills on myself. I also think I may have gotten abit of fumes, but did this all outside so couldn't have had too many? I'd greatly appreciate your advice.
Sincerely, Amy 949-310-0141

Answer
Hi Amy!

If I understand your question correctly, you have a chunk of lye in the top of your glass jar.  It will take some time but the lye can be dissolved by carefully stirring the solution.  You can then continue with the soap making process.

If I have missunderstood your question, or you need more information, please feel free to contact me again.  

have a Great day!
Terry