100% Sodium Hydroxide

by Ken
(Ravenna, Oh)

Do I have to use 100% Sodium Hydroxide for the lye mixture. I found a product that contains 95 to 98% Sodium Hydroxide. Would this be ok to use?

Answer:

Absolutely not...sorry but that 2% - 5% could be anything and is often something you really don't want in your soap.

Soap making definitely requires 100% sodium hydroxide and unfortunately there isn't anything that can be substituted for it.

Visit the Sodium Hydroxide page for a list of places you can purchase it.

You can also try your local hardware store...you will probably have to ask for it and explain what you need it for. Stores tend to keep it behind the counter these days due to it's use in drug making.

Good luck,
Cathy