I got mold growing on top of my soap!

by Jennifer
(Beaverton, OR)

Hi There,
I just made a batch of soap with ground calendula petals inside the bars and whole calendula petals sprinkled on top. Well, it has been curing for three days and I noticed some mold growing on top of the bars. What did I do wrong and is there any way to save the soap?? Thank you so much!!
Jennifer

Answer:

Hi Jennifer,

By mold do you mean the blue/green fuzzy stuff or do you mean a white powder-like bloom?

If you used fresh calendula petals to sprinkle on top of the soap, then it would be possible for them to go moldy with the blue/green fuzzy stuff. Either cut the top layer off or pluck the offending petals off.

I find it best to always used dried materials when it comes to plants. It's also a good idea to cure and store your soaps in a cool dry location...no exessive moisture until the soap is going to be used.

If, however, you mean a white powder-like bloom has begun to blossom over the top of your soap log then do not despair.

This is a fairly common occurance that soap makers face. It is harmless and comes off after the first washing. Many soap makers have learned to embrace it and make use of it...take this picture of one of my soaps...and this one too..both are examples of cases where I've had a white powdery bloom and I actually like the look!

If you feel your bars would look better without the bloom on top, simply cut it off...I've found a cheese slicer works well to cut a thin layer off the top of a soap bar.

Happy soaping!
Cathy