How Do You Handle Lye While Making Soap?
Whenever the word “lye” is mentioned in regards to making handmade soap, it tends to make some people leary. The dangers of lye should always be respected, but they don’t have to feared when you know how to safely handle it. Put on the necessary personal protection equipment. You will need goggles to keep accidental splashing and fumes from burning your eyes. Long sleeves and gloves will help keep any splashes off your skin. A face mask placed over your mouth will help ensure that you don’t accidentally breathe in fumes from the lye. Set up your scale on a surface that is hard, smooth and even. Carefully measure out your water and lye amounts in separate plastic containers. You should have already checked (and double checked) to make sure the needed amounts were accurate. Place your pitcher of water in a sink in a well ventilated area. Open a nearby window to help with ventilation if possible. Slowly pour your lye into the water. Never reverse this process and pour your water into the
