How to Make 25 Litres of Liquid Soap: A Step-by-Step Guide

Liquid soap is a versatile cleaning product that comes in a liquid form and is used for various cleaning purposes. It can be used to clean dishes, floors, bathrooms, and even your car. Making liquid soap is a straightforward process that can be done from the comfort of your home. In this article, we will discuss how to make 25 litres of liquid soap with a step-by-step guide.

To make 25 litres of liquid soap, you will need some ingredients such as caustic soda, soda ash, SLS, glycerine, sulphonic acid, STPP, texapon, foam booster, vitamin E, formalin, colour, and perfume. These ingredients can be easily found in local stores or online. It is important to note that safety measures should be taken when handling some of the ingredients such as caustic soda.

There are different methods of making liquid soap, but the most common method involves mixing the ingredients in the right proportion and heating them to a certain temperature. The mixture is then allowed to cool down and diluted with water to the desired thickness. With the right ingredients and instructions, making liquid soap can be a fun and rewarding experience.

Understanding Soap Making

Basics of Soap Chemistry

Soap making involves a chemical reaction between oils or fats and an alkali (sodium hydroxide or potassium hydroxide). This reaction is called saponification, which produces soap and glycerin. The soap-making process involves carefully measuring and mixing oils or fats with an alkali solution to form soap. The chemical reaction between the oils or fats and the alkali results in the production of soap and glycerin.

The type of oil or fat used in soap making affects the properties of the soap. For example, coconut oil produces a hard, cleansing soap, while olive oil produces a softer, moisturizing soap. The amount of lye used in the soap-making process also affects the properties of the soap. Too much lye can result in a harsh, drying soap, while too little lye can result in a soft, mushy soap.

Safety Considerations

Soap making involves working with lye, which is a caustic substance that can cause severe burns and eye damage. It is essential to take proper safety precautions when working with lye. Always wear protective gloves, goggles, and clothing when handling lye. Work in a well-ventilated area and keep children and pets away from the soap-making process.

Additionally, it is crucial to measure ingredients accurately and follow the soap-making recipe carefully. Deviating from the recipe can result in a soap that is too harsh or too soft. Always add the lye to the water, never the other way around, to avoid a dangerous chemical reaction. Finally, allow the soap to cure for several weeks before using it to ensure that all of the lye has been neutralized and the soap is safe to use.

Gathering Materials

Before starting to make 25 litres of liquid soap, it is essential to gather all the necessary materials. This section will provide a list of ingredients and equipment needed to make liquid soap.

List of Ingredients

The following ingredients are required to make 25 litres of liquid soap:

• Sodium Lauryl Sulphate (SLS) – 125g
• Caustic Soda – 250g
• Soda Ash – 500g
• Nitrosol – 125g
• Texapon – 250g
• Sulfonic Acid – 75cl
• Foam Booster – 250g
• 62.5g perfume
• Color (as desired)
• Sunflower Oil – 16 1/2 ounce
• Coconut Oil – 7 ounce
• Potassium Hydroxide KOH – 5 1/2 ounce
• Distilled Water – 56 1/2 ounce (16 1/2 ounce for lye mixture and 40 ounce to dilute soap paste)

It is important to ensure that all the ingredients are of high quality and pure. Using impure ingredients can affect the quality of the final product.

Equipment Needed

Apart from ingredients, the following equipment is required to make liquid soap:

• Large slow cooker
• Thermometer
• Scale
• Measuring cups
• Stick blender
• Potato masher and/or flat whisk

The slow cooker is used to heat the oils and the lye mixture. A thermometer is needed to measure the temperature of the mixture. A scale is used to measure the ingredients accurately. Measuring cups are used to measure the distilled water. A stick blender is used to blend the mixture, and a potato masher and/or flat whisk is used to stir the mixture.

In conclusion, gathering all the necessary materials is the first step towards making 25 litres of liquid soap. It is essential to ensure that all the ingredients are of high quality and pure, and the equipment is clean and in good condition.

Preparation Process

Measuring Ingredients

To make 25 liters of liquid soap, the ingredients needed are nitro, caustic soda, sulphonic acid, soda ash, STPP, Texapon, SLS, and perfume. The amount of each ingredient required is as follows:

It is important to measure the ingredients accurately to ensure the soap turns out as desired. A kitchen scale and measuring cups can be used for this purpose.

Mixing Solutions

To begin the mixing process, divide the water into two parts. Start with 15 liters of water and add the nitro to it. Mix well until dissolved. In the remaining 10 liters of water, add the caustic soda and mix until dissolved.

Next, add the sulphonic acid, soda ash, STPP, Texapon, and SLS to the caustic soda solution. Mix well until dissolved. Slowly pour the caustic soda mixture into the nitro mixture while stirring continuously.

After pouring all of the caustic soda mixture into the nitro mixture, continue stirring for 30 minutes. Add the perfume and continue stirring for another 10 minutes. Cover the mixture and let it sit for 24 hours.

In conclusion, measuring the ingredients accurately and following the mixing process carefully is crucial to making 25 liters of liquid soap.

Saponification Stage

Liquid soap is made through a process known as saponification, which involves combining oils and lye to create soap molecules. This process is often carried out in two stages, namely the mixing of oils and lye and monitoring the reaction.

Combining Oils and Lye

To make 25 litres of liquid soap, it is important to start by measuring out the required amount of oils and lye. The oils should be heated to a temperature of around 50-60°C, while the lye should be dissolved in water and left to cool to a temperature of around 30-40°C.

Once the oils and lye have reached the desired temperatures, they can be combined slowly while stirring continuously. It is important to keep stirring until the mixture has reached a homogenous consistency.

Monitoring the Reaction

After the oils and lye have been combined, the mixture will begin to undergo a chemical reaction known as saponification. During this stage, the mixture will thicken and become more opaque.

It is important to monitor the reaction closely to ensure that the soap does not overheat or become too thick to stir. If the soap becomes too thick, it may be necessary to add more water to the mixture.

Overall, the saponification stage is a critical part of the liquid soap making process. By carefully measuring and combining the oils and lye, and monitoring the reaction closely, it is possible to create a high-quality liquid soap product that is suitable for a wide range of applications.

Dilution and Additives

Diluting the Concentrate

Once the liquid soap concentrate has been made, it needs to be diluted to the desired strength. The dilution ratio will depend on the intended use of the soap. For general cleaning purposes, a dilution ratio of 1:4 (1 part soap concentrate to 4 parts water) is recommended. For heavier duty cleaning, a stronger dilution ratio of 1:2 (1 part soap concentrate to 2 parts water) may be necessary.

To dilute the soap concentrate, simply add the desired amount of water to the concentrate and stir well. It is important to use distilled or filtered water to prevent any impurities from affecting the quality of the soap.

Incorporating Additives

Liquid soap can be customized with various additives to enhance its cleaning properties or add fragrance. Here are some common additives and their recommended usage rates:

• Essential oils: Add 10-20 drops per 500ml of soap. Be sure to choose essential oils that are safe for skin contact and avoid using too much as it can cause skin irritation.
• Glycerin: Add 1-2 tablespoons per 500ml of soap to increase the soap’s moisturizing properties.
• Citric acid: Add 1-2 teaspoons per 500ml of soap to help adjust the pH level of the soap and improve its cleaning ability.

When adding additives, it is important to stir well to ensure they are evenly distributed throughout the soap. It is also recommended to test a small batch of soap with the additive before adding it to the entire batch to ensure it does not negatively affect the soap’s quality.

Overall, diluting the soap concentrate and incorporating additives are simple steps that can enhance the effectiveness and customization of liquid soap.

Curing and Quality Control

Curing Process

After making the liquid soap, it is important to cure it properly to ensure that it is safe for use. The curing process involves leaving the soap to sit for a period of time to allow it to fully saponify, which means that all the oils and lye have reacted to form soap molecules. This process typically takes about 4-6 weeks.

During the curing process, it is important to store the soap in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. This will help to prevent the soap from sweating and losing moisture. It is also important to keep the soap in a well-ventilated area to prevent the buildup of any harmful fumes.

Testing the Final Product

Once the soap has cured, it is important to test it to ensure that it is safe for use. One way to test the soap is to use a pH strip to check the pH level. The pH level of the soap should be between 8 and 10, which is the range for safe and effective use.

Another way to test the soap is to perform a skin patch test. Apply a small amount of the soap to the inner forearm and leave it on for 24 hours. If there is no irritation or redness, the soap is safe for use.

In addition to testing the soap, it is important to ensure that it meets the desired quality standards. This can be done by checking for the desired consistency, scent, and color. If the soap does not meet the desired quality standards, adjustments can be made to the recipe for future batches.

Packaging and Storage

After making 25 liters of liquid soap, the next step is to ensure proper packaging and storage. This will help to maintain the quality of the soap and ensure that it remains safe for use. In this section, we will discuss the two main aspects of packaging and storage: bottle selection and labeling/sealing.

Bottle Selection

When selecting bottles for packaging your liquid soap, it is important to choose ones that are suitable for the purpose. The bottles should be made of a material that is resistant to corrosion and can withstand the chemicals in the soap. Some common materials used for liquid soap bottles include plastic, glass, and metal.

Plastic bottles are lightweight and shatterproof, making them a popular choice for liquid soap packaging. Glass bottles, on the other hand, are more durable and offer a more premium look and feel. Metal bottles are also a good option for packaging liquid soap, as they are resistant to corrosion and can be recycled.

When choosing a bottle, it is also important to consider the size and shape. The bottle should be large enough to hold the 25 liters of liquid soap and should have a wide opening for easy dispensing.

Labeling and Sealing

Proper labeling and sealing of the liquid soap bottles is essential for safety and regulatory compliance. Each bottle should be labeled with the name of the soap, the ingredients, and the date of manufacture. This information will help users to identify the soap and ensure that it is safe for use.

In addition to labeling, it is important to properly seal the bottles to prevent contamination and leakage. Some common methods of sealing liquid soap bottles include using a pump, cork, or screw cap. The sealing method should be chosen based on the type of bottle and the intended use of the soap.

Overall, proper packaging and storage of liquid soap is crucial for maintaining its quality and safety. By selecting the right bottles and properly labeling and sealing them, you can ensure that your liquid soap remains safe and effective for use.

Scaling Production

When it comes to producing liquid soap in large quantities, scaling production is key. Here are some batch production tips and equipment upgrades that can help streamline the process.

Batch Production Tips

One of the most important things to keep in mind when scaling production is to maintain consistency. This means measuring out ingredients accurately and following the recipe closely. It’s also important to keep detailed notes on each batch, including the date, time, and any variations from the original recipe.

Another helpful tip is to break the production process down into smaller steps. For example, prepare all of the ingredients ahead of time and measure them out into separate containers. This can help speed up the production process and minimize the risk of errors.

Equipment Upgrades

Investing in the right equipment can also help streamline the production process. One option is to use a mixer, which can help ensure that all of the ingredients are thoroughly blended. Another option is to upgrade to a larger production vessel, such as a 50-liter drum, which can help increase efficiency and reduce the number of batches needed to meet demand.

Other equipment upgrades to consider include pumps, which can help transfer the liquid soap from one vessel to another, and automated filling machines, which can help speed up the packaging process.

In conclusion, scaling production of liquid soap requires attention to detail and the right equipment. By following these batch production tips and investing in the right upgrades, it’s possible to produce high-quality liquid soap in larger quantities.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the necessary ingredients for commercial liquid soap production?

To produce commercial liquid soap, you will need Nitrosol or Antisol, Caustic Soda, Sulphonic Acid, Soda Ash, Texapon, SLS, STPP, and Formalin. These ingredients are readily available from chemical suppliers.

Can you provide a step-by-step guide for making large batches of liquid soap?

Yes. To make 25 liters of liquid soap, mix 1/8kg of Nitrosol or Antisol with 10 liters of water and stir. Dissolve 1/16kg of Caustic Soda in 5 liters of water and add it to the Nitrosol solution. In a separate container, dissolve 1/4kg of Soda Ash in 5 liters of water and add it to the Nitrosol and Caustic Soda mixture. Add 1/2kg of Sulphonic Acid and stir. Then add 1/2kg of Texapon, 1/4kg of SLS, and 1/4kg of STPP and stir. Finally, add 1/4 liter of Formalin and stir. Leave the mixture to cool and settle for 24 hours.

What are the best practices for scaling up liquid soap production for retail?

To scale up liquid soap production for retail, you will need to invest in larger equipment and increase your raw material supply. You will also need to ensure that your production process is efficient and meets all regulatory requirements. It is advisable to seek expert advice to ensure that your scaling process is successful.

Which raw materials are essential for crafting high-quality liquid soap?

The essential raw materials for crafting high-quality liquid soap are Nitrosol or Antisol, Caustic Soda, Sulphonic Acid, Soda Ash, Texapon, SLS, STPP, and Formalin. These ingredients are responsible for the cleaning and foaming properties of liquid soap.

How do you ensure consistency when producing liquid soap in bulk?

To ensure consistency when producing liquid soap in bulk, it is important to measure your ingredients accurately and follow a standardized production process. You should also test your product regularly to ensure that it meets your quality standards.

What dilution ratio is recommended for creating liquid soap for various uses?

The dilution ratio for creating liquid soap depends on the intended use. For hand washing, a dilution ratio of 1:4 is recommended, while a dilution ratio of 1:10 is suitable for dishwashing. It is important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions when diluting liquid soap.