Making Soap After SHTF

Introduction

In a post-apocalyptic world, basic necessities like soap may become scarce. However, with a few simple ingredients and the right knowledge, you can learn how to create soap using leftover animal fat and hardwood ashes. This guide will walk you through the process of making a simple hot pour soap block, including the materials needed, curing time, cutting and storing techniques, as well as options for adding color and fragrance using herbs, clays, and essential oils.

Materials Needed

To make a hot pour soap block, you'll need the following materials:

• Leftover animal fat (such as beef, deer, or pork fat-you should be storing this anyway)

• Hardwood ashes (ideally from maple, hickory, oak, or ash)

• A large pot for rendering the fat

• A heat-resistant container for mixing the soap-NO aluminum

• A mold for shaping the soap

• A knife or soap cutter

• Airtight containers for storing the soap

• Rainwater or filtered water

Soap Making Process

1. Rendering the Fat:

Begin by rendering the animal fat. Cut the fat into small pieces and place it in a large pot. Heat the pot over a fire or stove on low heat until the fat melts completely. Strain the melted fat to remove any impurities and set it aside.

2. Making Lye Solution:

Collect hardwood ashes (no charcoal) and mix them with non-chlorinated water to create a lye solution. The ratio should be approximately 2 parts ashes to 3 parts water. Allow the mixture to sit for a few hours, stirring occasionally. The lye solution will become more concentrated over time.

3. Combining Fat and Lye:

In a heat-resistant container, carefully combine the melted fat and lye solution. Stir the mixture thoroughly, ensuring that the fat and lye are well incorporated. This process is known as saponification, where the fat and lye react to form soap.

4. Pouring and Molding:

Pour the soap mixture into a mold of your choice. You can use a simple rectangular mold made from wood or silicone. Allow the soap to cool and harden for at least 24 hours.

Adding Color and Fragrance

If you want to enhance the soap's appearance and scent, you can experiment with natural additives. Herbs, flowers, natural dyes, clays, and essential oils can be used to color and fragrance the soap. Add them to the soap mixture during the stirring process, ensuring they are well distributed. Plantain and jewelweed are great for itching, skin complaints, poison ivy, and bug bites. Very finely ground black walnut hulls can be added to improve grime removal. Activated charcoal powder helps detoxify.

Curing Time

After the soap has hardened, it needs to cure for several weeks. Place the soap in a cool, dry place with good airflow. Turning the soap occasionally will help it cure evenly. The curing process allows the soap to become milder and harder, ensuring a longer-lasting bar. If your soap doesn't set up initially, you may need to stir it or reheat occasionally. If after several weeks, it still is not the desired hardness, you may need to add more lye and repeat the process.

Cutting and Storing

Once the soap has fully cured, it's time to cut it into bars. Use a knife or soap cutter to create individual soap bars of your desired size. Store the bars in airtight containers to protect them from moisture and extend their shelf life.

Conclusion

In a survival situation, knowing how to make soap from leftover animal fat and hardwood ashes can be a valuable skill. By following these steps, you can create a simple hot pour soap block that will help keep you clean and hygienic. Remember to exercise caution when handling lye and always work in a well-ventilated area. With practice and experimentation, you can even customize your soap creations using natural additives for a touch of luxury in a post-SHTF world.

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