Ingredients
1 liter of hot water: Essential liquid base which facilitates the dissolution of grated soap and serves as a vehicle for all other components, thus determining the final consistency of the product.
1 cup of white vinegar: Powerful natural disinfectant with antibacterial properties, removes stains, dissolves mineral residues and neutralizes unpleasant odors without leaving toxic chemicals.
1/2 cup baking soda: A mild abrasive cleaner with exceptional deodorizing properties, it whitens surfaces and enhances the cleaning action of vinegar through its characteristic chemical reaction.
100 grams of grated neutral soap: provides basic cleaning power and helps create the creamy texture of the product; this can be glycerin soap or any other unscented soap.
10 drops of essential oil: An optional ingredient that provides a pleasant natural fragrance and additional antibacterial properties; popular choices include lavender, lemon, eucalyptus, or tea tree.
Preparation
Step 1: Begin by preparing all the necessary ingredients and utensils. Grate the neutral soap using a fine grater until you obtain 100 grams of small, uniform flakes. These fine flakes will dissolve much more quickly and effectively than larger pieces, ensuring a smooth, lump-free final product.
Step 2: In a large saucepan, heat the liter of water over medium heat. The water should be very hot, but not boiling. The ideal temperature is when the water is just about to boil, but not simmering. This temperature is perfect for dissolving the soap without altering its properties.
Step 3: Once the water has reached the correct temperature, remove the pan from the heat and place it on a heat-resistant surface. Now is the time to prepare the vinegar and baking soda mixture, a particularly spectacular step.
Step 4: In a large, deep container, preferably glass or sturdy plastic, pour the cup of white vinegar. Here’s the crucial step: gradually add the baking soda, one tablespoon at a time. You’ll immediately see an effervescent reaction with lots of foam and bubbles. This chemical reaction produces carbon dioxide, which is completely harmless. Continue adding the baking soda little by little, waiting for the fizzing to subside between each addition.
Step 5: Once all the baking soda is incorporated and the fizzing has almost completely subsided, add the hot water to the mixture. Pour it in slowly, stirring constantly to thoroughly combine all the ingredients. The water temperature will promote an optimal chemical reaction.
Step 6: Add the grated neutral soap to the liquid mixture. Using a wooden spoon or silicone spatula, stir constantly in wide circular motions until the soap is completely dissolved. This may take between 5 and 10 minutes. The mixture should be clear and smooth, with no visible traces of solid soap.
Step 7: If you wish to scent your homemade soap, now is the time to add the essential oil. Incorporate 10 drops of your chosen essential oil and mix well to evenly distribute the aroma throughout the liquid. Essential oils not only provide fragrance, but many also possess disinfectant and antibacterial properties.
Step 8: Let the mixture cool to room temperature for about 30 minutes to 1 hour. As it cools, you will notice that its consistency changes slightly: it becomes thicker and takes on a gelatinous form. This transformation is perfectly normal and expected.
