Lather Up: Crafting Homemade Soaps and Beauty Essentials

Why Homemade Soap?

Anyone invested in homesteading, self-reliance, or survival should consider the importance of homemade soap and beauty products. Today, you’ll learn why homemade soap should be a part of your preparedness plan and how to make it.

Dangers of Commercial Soaps

Many commercial soaps contain chemicals and synthetic ingredients that are not only bad for your skin, but also for the environment. In a survival situation, these negative impacts could be detrimental. Furthermore, relying on store-bought soaps means dependency on outside sources. In a crisis, these sources could shut down, leaving you and your family vulnerable.

Benefits of Homemade Soap

Making your own soap not only allows you to ensure your skin is getting the care it deserves, but it also provides you with a valuable skill and resource in survival situations. With homemade soap, you control the ingredients so you can eliminate chemicals and toxins while focusing on natural, skin-nourishing ingredients

Self-Sustainable

Creating your own homemade soap means you become more self-sustainable. You won’t be dependent on a shop or product that might not be available in a crisis. This equates to peace of mind and security.

Versatile Use

Soap isn’t just for keeping your body clean. It can be used for washing clothes, dishes, and pets, making it an incredibly versatile and essential survival tool.

How to Make Homemade Soap

Making your own soap is simpler than you might think. With a few basic ingredients and tools, you can create a bar of soap that’s perfect for your skin’s specific needs.

Basic Ingredients

1. Lye
2. Water
3. Fat (such as olive oil, coconut oil, or animal fats)
4. Optional: Essential oils, herbs, or natural colorants

Essential Tools

• Goggles and Gloves (for safety when working with lye)
• Stainless Steel Pot
• Thermometer
• Soap Molds
• Stick Blender

Once you have gathered all necessary materials, follow this simple process: mix lye with water, mix lye water with fats, add any optional ingredients, pour mixture into soap molds, and finally, let the soap dry. After a curing period of 4-6 weeks, your soap is ready for use.

Making Your Soap Last

To extend the life of your homemade soap, keep it dry between uses and make sure it’s stored in a cool, dry place. Smaller bars will also last longer, use smaller soap molds or cut big bars into smaller pieces before use.

Conclusion

Homemade soap is more than a luxury, it’s a survival tool. Not only does it foster self-reliance and prepare you for uncertain times, but also provides a healthier, more sustainable option for your skin care needs. Remember, your survival preparedness is more than just food and water, it’s about being prepared in every aspect of life.