Rosemary grows well in the UK in a sheltered, sunny spot with free draining soil, and it strongly prefers being left slightly dry over being overwatered. Plant a young rosemary plant in spring, avoid rich or waterlogged soil, and give it a light trim after flowering to keep growth bushy rather than sparse and leggy. Rosemary sits right beside my lavender on the allotment, and it is one of the plants that has genuinely surprised me with how little fuss it actually wants. Where and how to plant it Rosemary wants sun and drainage above almost everything else. Heavy, waterlogged clay soil is its least favourite condition, so raising the bed slightly or adding grit at planting time helps enormously if your ground holds water. Spring planting gives it the best chance to establish a strong root system before its first UK winter. Watering, or rather, the lack of it Established rosemary is genuinely drought tolerant and would generally rather be left dry than fussed over with frequent watering. Overwatering, particularly in heavier soil, is the most common way to lose a rosemary plant, far more so than an unusually cold winter. Pruning for a bushy plant A light trim straight after flowering encourages fuller, bushier growth rather than a single woody stem with sparse leaves at the top. As with lavender, avoid cutting hard into old bare wood, since rosemary is often reluctant to regrow from it. Will rosemary survive a UK winter outdoors Most hardy rosemary varieties cope well with a typical UK winter outdoors, provided drainage is good and the plant is in a reasonably sheltered spot away from harsh, cold winds. Wet roots in winter are a far bigger risk than cold air alone. From my allotment bed to my soap pot Rosemary is one of the plants I genuinely can cut and use the same afternoon, since it grows just steps from where I make my soap. It reads as herbal, green and awake in the finished bar, a scent I reach for particularly in autumn. Frequently asked questions Does rosemary need rich soil to grow well? No, quite the opposite. Rosemary generally prefers leaner, free draining soil over rich, heavily fed ground. Can rosemary survive outdoors through a UK winter? Yes, most hardy varieties manage well outdoors provided the soil drains freely and the spot is reasonably sheltered. Why is my rosemary plant turning brown and woody? This is usually a sign it has gone too long without a proper prune after flowering, or that it is sitting in soil that stays too wet. Rosemary essential oil is one of the scents in my range, herbal, green and clarifying, grown and used within one small patch of Milton Keynes, and it is on my website.

Have you ever looked at rows of beautiful artisan soap bars and thought, “I could never make anything that pretty”? The truth is, you really can, lovely – even as a beginner. In this guide, we’ll walk through the key skills and habits that make your soaps look polished, consistent and “shop ready”, without needing a studio or years of experience. Why Choose a Professional Soap Making Academy? A professional soap making academy offers structured courses that cover everything from the basics to advanced techniques. You learn not only the art of creating soaps but also the science behind it. Knowledge about ingredients, safety measures, and marketing your products is crucial for success. Moreover, these academies often employ industry experts who provide insights into best practices. You can get hands-on experience with premium tools and materials. The comprehensive curriculum can also include lessons on branding and selling, giving you a competitive edge if you choose to enter the market. It's important to note that many people make the decision to pursue craftsmanship as a serious profession during their studies at a soap academy. They gain confidence and inspiration, fueled by the atmosphere of creativity and innovation. Mastering the Craft: Skills You Will Acquire Enrolling in a professional soap making academy enables you to acquire various essential skills, including: 1. Understanding Ingredients One of the critical areas to understand is the variety of ingredients used in soap making. This includes different oils, lye, and additives such as fragrance oils and colorants. Knowing how each ingredient interacts helps in formulating recipes that not only clean but also nourish the skin. 2. Soap Making Techniques You will learn different techniques such as cold process, hot process, melt and pour, and rebatching. Each method has its unique advantages and challenges, and getting practical experience in these varied approaches will enable you to choose the one that best fits your style. 3. Safety Protocols Safety is paramount when working with lye and other chemical substances. Your training will cover essential safety protocols to safeguard yourself and those around you. Knowledge of how to handle materials safely is not just beneficial – it’s crucial. If you’re reading this and thinking, “This all makes sense, but I’d love someone to walk me through it on video,” that’s exactly what I do inside my Botanical Soap Making Beginners Course. We start with lye safety, then move into beginner-friendly recipes and simple, beautiful designs so your first bars already look professional. 👉 See everything that’s included in the course 4. Creative Design Soap making is as much an art as it is a science. A reputable soap academy will teach you creative design techniques to make your products unique. From swirls to embedding different colors, the aesthetic aspect of soap is vital for branding. 5. Marketing Your Products Beyond crafting, you’ll also need to understand how to market your handmade soaps. Courses will often include modules on branding, packaging design, and effective marketing strategies to help you reach your target audience. Can I Legally Sell Homemade Soap? The short answer is yes, you can legally sell homemade soap; however, it requires a clear understanding of the regulations involved. Before you start selling, it's important to educate yourself on the following aspects: Licensing and Regulations Depending on where you live, you may need to acquire specific licenses or permits to sell homemade soaps. This includes adhering to the FDA regulations on labeling and safety for skin care products. Take the time to research the requirements specific to your area. Liability Insurance Consider investing in liability insurance. This protects you from potential claims arising from the use of your products. It’s essential to ensure that you provide safe and non-toxic soaps to consumers. Product Testing and Compliance You must ensure that your products are safe. This often involves testing and sometimes obtaining certification for your ingredients or finished soaps. It's beneficial to keep meticulous records of the formulations you use, especially if you plan to market your soaps. By equipping yourself with the necessary knowledge and compliance, selling your homemade soaps can become a legitimate business venture. How to Get Started Getting started on your journey toward becoming a skilled soap maker involves a few important steps: 1. Research Your Options Take the time to explore various soap academies and their course offerings. Look for reviews, testimonials, and the curriculum to ensure you select one that aligns with your goals. 2. Invest in Quality Materials While you may want to start with basic supplies, investing in quality ingredients and tools is essential. This not only enhances your soap quality but also makes the learning experience more enjoyable. 3. Practice Regularly Like any craft, mastering soap making requires practice. Experiment with different recipes and techniques. This trial-and-error will help you understand what works best for you. 4. Network with Other Soap Makers Building relationships with fellow soap makers can be invaluable. Join online forums or local meet-ups that focus on soap making. Learning from others’ experiences and sharing your own can provide motivation and ideas. 5. Create a Business Plan If you plan on selling your products, outline a business plan. Identify your target audience, marketing strategies, and begin developing a brand that reflects your style. By following these steps, you can confidently embark on your soap making journey, equipped with the skills and knowledge gained at a professional academy. Beyond Soap Making: The Benefits of Joining an Academy Enrolling in a professional soap making academy offers more than just the development of technical skills. It creates a community of like-minded individuals who share similar passions. You gain access to expert guidance, resources, and support throughout your learning process. Many academies also provide opportunities for further education in related fields, allowing you to expand your skills continuously. Building these connections and benefiting from professional mentorship can be a key differentiator in your career. Whether you plan to make soap for personal satisfaction or to launch a business, the skills learned at an academy give you an unparalleled edge. In conclusion, investing in your soap making education at a professional soap making academy can be a rewarding choice. It not only equips you with the technical skills required to create beautiful, high-quality soaps but also provides essential business knowledge that can lead to a successful enterprise. So why wait? Take the first step and explore the offerings at the soap academy today. Transform your passion for soap into a profession! Your next step If this post has you excited about making your own soaps, here’s where to go next: Download the free Soap Making Checklist – perfect to keep on your counter on soap day so you don’t forget anything when the lye comes out. Join the Botanical Soap Making Beginners Course (£149) – a calm, step-by-step online course that takes you from “I’m nervous” to “I made this!” with videos, recipes and printable guides 👉 Get the Free Checklist– 👉 Explore the Beginners Course

Soap making doesn’t always go as planned. Maybe you forgot an oil, miscalculated the lye, or experienced a false trace, causing your soap batter to separate in the mold. Or perhaps you have a pile of old, unscented soaps that no longer look or smell appealing. Don’t worry—your soap isn’t wasted! Rebatching soap is a simple and effective way to fix failed batches, repurpose old bars, and create beautiful, skin-loving handmade soaps without starting from scratch. In this guide, we’ll cover: ✔ What rebatching soap is and why it works ✔ Common soap-making mistakes that rebatching can fix ✔ A step-by-step method to rebatch your soap successfully By learning how to rebatch soap properly, you can save ingredients, reduce waste, and create stunning, eco-friendly handmade soaps that your skin will love. Let’s dive in! Safety First: Handling Lye and Fresh Soap When working with fresh lye or soap less than 2-3 days old: Avoid aluminum or non-stick items to prevent reactions. Always wear gloves and eye protection. Work in a well-ventilated area. Step-by-Step Guide to Rebatching Soap in the Oven 1. Preheat the Oven Set your oven to 225–250°F (107–121°C). 2. Prepare the Soap Grate the soap into small shreds. If the soap is too old and hard to grate, cut it into tiny chunks. 3. Add Water Place the soap shreds into an ovenproof bowl, dish, or pot. Sprinkle a few tablespoons of water over the soap and stir until evenly damp. Adjust water amount based on soap age: Fresh soap (a few days old) → may not need extra water. Older soap (several months old) → needs more water. Never use more than half the weight of the soap (e.g., for 8 oz of soap, use max 4 oz of water). 4. Heat the Soap in the Oven Cover the dish and place it in the oven. Heat for 30–40 minutes, then stir. Return to the oven for another 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally. Repeat every 15 minutes until the soap is fully melted. 5. Improve Texture (Optional) If the soap is too thick, stir in a spoonful of yogurt or sodium lactate for a smoother consistency. Return to the oven for a few more minutes if needed. 6. Add Essential Oils & Mold the Soap Once the soap is fully melted, remove it from the oven. If using, mix in essential oils for fragrance. Spoon the soap into loaf molds or simple individual molds. Let it cool completely before unmolding. 7. Cure the Soap If the soap was less than 4 weeks old before rebatching, cure for several weeks. If the soap was older than 4 weeks, let it harden before use. Troubleshooting: Fixing Common Soap-Making Mistakes Forgot to Add an Oil? Let the soap melt for 30–45 minutes. Stir in the missing oil, then continue heating and stirring. Not Enough Lye in the Original Recipe? Prepare a lye solution: Mix the missing lye amount with twice as much water (e.g., 3g lye + 6g water). Sprinkle the soap shreds with plain water first, then carefully add the lye solution. Always wear gloves and goggles when handling lye, and avoid using aluminum or non-stick materials. Rebatching soap is an excellent way to rescue failed soap batches, refresh old bars, and reduce waste. With a little patience and the right technique, you can transform imperfect soaps into beautiful, skin-nourishing bars. Your next step If this post has you excited about making your own soaps, here’s where to go next: Download the free Soap Making Checklist – perfect to keep on your counter on soap day so you don’t forget anything when the lye comes out. Join the Botanical Soap Making Beginners Course (£149) – a calm, step-by-step online course that takes you from “I’m nervous” to “I made this!” with videos, recipes and printable guides 👉 Get the Free Checklist– 👉 Explore the Beginners Course

So, you’ve crafted a beautiful batch of handmade soap, but it’s looking a little… plain? No worries! Adding a decorative stamp is a super simple way to give your soaps a personal touch and make them look extra fancy. But (and this is a little but), stamping soap does take a bit of practice. Not to worry, though—I’ve got some handy tips to help you nail it like a pro. Let’s dive in! 1. Timing is Everything! When it comes to stamping, when you do it is just as important as how you do it. The firmness of your soap makes all the difference, and that depends on your recipe! 🧼 Soaps high in ‘hard’ oils like cocoa butter, tallow, and lard tend to be stamp-ready sooner. 🫒 Soaps with a lot of ‘soft’ oils (like olive, sunflower, and sweet almond) need a little longer to firm up before stamping. 💦 If your recipe has a high water content, it’ll take longer to be ready. A lower water amount? You’re good to go sooner! 🧂 Hardening agents like sodium lactate or salt help speed up the process, so you won’t have to wait as long. 2. How to Get That Perfect Stamp Now that your soap is at the perfect stamping stage, let’s talk technique! Here’s how to get a crisp, clean design every time: Make sure your stamp is clean—leftover soap bits from previous uses can mess up your impression. If your stamp has stubborn soap stuck in the crevices, an old toothbrush works wonders! Place the stamp on your soap and press down firmly, making sure all four corners get even pressure. If you want a stronger impression, try gently tapping the stamp with a rubber mallet (but don’t go full Thor on it!). Some soapers swear by placing a piece of plastic wrap between the soap and the stamp—it helps prevent sticking! Spritzing the soap with isopropyl alcohol before stamping can also help you get a cleaner impression. 3. Practice Makes Perfect! Like anything in soap making, stamping takes a bit of trial and error. But don’t worry—you’ll get the hang of it! Here are a few tricks to speed up the learning curve: Use the end pieces or a test bar from each batch to practice before stamping your main bars. If your soap sticks to the stamp, that’s your cue to wait a bit longer! Give it another 12-24 hours and try again. With a little patience and practice, your soaps will go from simple to stunning in no time. Your next step If this post has you excited about making your own soaps, here’s where to go next: Download the free Soap Making Checklist – perfect to keep on your counter on soap day so you don’t forget anything when the lye comes out. Join the Botanical Soap Making Beginners Course (£149) – a calm, step-by-step online course that takes you from “I’m nervous” to “I made this!” with videos, recipes and printable guides 👉 Get the Free Checklist– 👉 Explore the Beginners Course

You’ve poured a beautiful batch of soap, waited patiently to unmould it… and then a dusty, white layer appears on top. Hello, soda ash. It’s harmless but frustrating – especially when you want your bars to look smooth and creamy. In this beginner-friendly guide, we’ll talk about what soda ash is, why it happens, and the simple steps you can take to prevent (or fix) it. 1. Control Your Soap-Making Environment The temperature of your workspace plays a major role in soda ash formation. Cold and damp conditions make soap more vulnerable to ash. ✔ Avoid unheated sheds, basements, or garages—cold environments increase soda ash risk. ✔ Keep your workspace at a comfortable room temperature (around 70°F to 90°F / 21°C to 32°C). ✔ Use a small space heater if necessary to maintain warmth. 👉 Rule of thumb: If it’s too cold for you, it’s too cold for your soap! 2. Optimize Your Water Usage The amount, type, and temperature of the water you use can impact soda ash formation. ✔ Use less water – Soaps with a lower water content are less prone to soda ash. Try reducing your water discount slightly. ✔ Use warmer temperatures – Keep your lye solution and oils above 100°F (38°C) when mixing. ✔ Choose distilled water – Tap water contains minerals and impurities that may contribute to soda ash, soap scum, or early rancidity. Stick to distilled or deionized water for best results. 3. Add Beeswax to Your Soap Recipe Beeswax is an excellent natural ingredient that can help reduce soda ash while also making your soap harder. ✔ Add 0.5% to 2% beeswax (based on the total oil weight in your recipe). ✔ Melt it thoroughly with your oils before adding lye. ✔ Works especially well in cold process soap recipes that require extra hardness. If soda ash is just one of many little things making you doubt yourself, a clear path can make all the difference. Inside the Beginners Course, I guide you through each stage of the soap making process with videos and printables, so you know exactly what to do – and what’s normal – at every step. 👉 See how the course works 4. Encourage Gel Phase Gel phase is when your soap heats up and becomes translucent during saponification. Higher temperatures reduce soda ash formation. ✔ Insulate your soap mold after pouring. ✔ Use a heating pad under your mold for 20–30 minutes to encourage gel phase. ✔ If your house is cold, cover your mold with towels or blankets to retain heat. 5. Be Patient & Avoid Unmolding Too Soon Most soda ash forms when raw soap batter is exposed to air too early. ✔ Leave your soap in the mold for at least 24–36 hours. ✔ Cover your soap to prevent direct exposure to air. ✔ Avoid touching or cutting the soap too soon—letting it cure properly reduces the risk of ash forming. Say Goodbye to Soda Ash! By following these five tips, you can significantly reduce soda ash in your cold process soap and achieve smooth, professional-looking bars. ✔ Keep your workspace warm ✔ Use distilled water and reduce excess liquid ✔ Incorporate beeswax for added hardness ✔ Encourage gel phase with insulation or a heating pad ✔ Be patient and resist the urge to unmold too soon With the right techniques, you’ll be able to create beautiful, ash-free handmade soap every time! ❤ Your next step If this post has you excited about making your own soaps, here’s where to go next: Download the free Soap Making Checklist – perfect to keep on your counter on soap day so you don’t forget anything when the lye comes out. Join the Botanical Soap Making Beginners Course (£149) – a calm, step-by-step online course that takes you from “I’m nervous” to “I made this!” with videos, recipes and printable guides 👉 Get the Free Checklist– 👉 Explore the Beginners Course

Test batches are your best friend as a soap maker, especially when you’re just starting out. Making smaller loaves lets you experiment with new oils, colours and botanicals without sacrificing a whole bottle of olive oil or a big slab of soap. In this post, we’ll go through how to scale down recipes safely and what to watch out for in tiny test batches. Why Make Small Test Batches in Soap Making? Testing in small batches allows you to: Experiment with natural colorants (e.g., indigo, spirulina, turmeric, and clays) Try out essential oil blends without committing to large amounts Adjust recipe formulations for better lather, hardness, or conditioning properties Minimize ingredient waste if something doesn’t turn out as expected By making small soap batches, you can perfect your cold process soap without breaking the bank. Best Soap Batch Size for Testing Ingredients Since essential oil and colorant usage rates are based on PPO (per pound of oils = 16 oz or 454 g), the best test batch sizes are: 8-ounce (1/2 lb or 227 g) oil batch → Use half of the recommended PPO 4-ounce (1/4 lb or 113 g) oil batch → Use one-quarter of the recommended PPO Example: Testing Indigo Powder in Soap If you want to see how 1 tsp PPO of indigo powder looks in soap: Use ½ tsp for an 8-ounce oil batch Use ¼ tsp for a 4-ounce oil batch This method ensures accurate color testing while conserving ingredients. Small Test Batch Soap Recipe (8 oz / 227 g Oils) This balanced soap formula is great for testing natural colorants, essential oils, or new ingredient combinations. Ingredients: Oils & Butters: 4 oz (113 g) Olive Oil (50%) 2.5 oz (71 g) Coconut Oil (31%) 0.5 oz (14 g) Castor Oil (6%) 1 oz (28 g) Refined Shea and Cocoa Butter (13%) Lye Solution: 1.13 oz (32 g) Lye (5% Superfat) 2.26 oz (64 g) Distilled Water (2:1 Water-to-Lye Ratio) How to Scale the Recipe for a 4 oz (113 g) Oil Test Batch: Simply divide the recipe in half for a 4-ounce oil test batch. How to Make a Small Soap Test Batch 1️⃣ Prepare your lye solution by dissolving lye in distilled water. Allow it to cool. 2️⃣ Weigh and melt your oils and butters, then let them cool to the same temperature as the lye solution. 3️⃣ Blend lye solution with oils using a small immersion blender or a whisk. 4️⃣ Pour the soap batter into small individual molds or small containers. 5️⃣ Add your test ingredient (colourant, essential oil, etc.) and mix well. 6️⃣ Cure & observe your soap as it hardens. Take notes on color, scent retention, and texture. If you’re nervous about getting the numbers wrong when scaling down, you don’t have to figure it all out alone. Inside the Beginners Course, I walk you through reliable base recipes and show you how to adapt them step by step, so your test batches feel exciting, not stressful. 👉 Learn more about the beginners course Evaluating Your Test Soap Batch After curing, check the following: ✔ Did the essential oil scent last? ✔ Did the colorant hold up or fade over time? ✔ Would you adjust the ingredient ratio next time? Keeping detailed notes will help you refine your soap-making technique and create consistent, high-quality handcrafted soap. Why Making Small Test Batches Are Essential for Soap Making ❤Making test batches of cold process soap is a great way to experiment, innovate, and perfect your recipes without wasting large amounts of natural soap-making ingredients. Whether you're testing essential oil blends, botanical colorants, or formulation tweaks, these small batches allow you to fine-tune your craft without unnecessary costs. By regularly experimenting with small batches, you can create better, more consistent handmade soaps. ❤ Your next step If this post has you excited about making your own soaps, here’s where to go next: Download the free Soap Making Checklist – perfect to keep on your counter on soap day so you don’t forget anything when the lye comes out. Join the Botanical Soap Making Beginners Course (£149) – a calm, step-by-step online course that takes you from “I’m nervous” to “I made this!” with videos, recipes and printable guides 👉 Get the Free Checklist– 👉 Explore the Beginners Course

Solid dish soap is one of my favourite “gateway” projects for new soap makers. It’s practical, zero-waste, and incredibly satisfying to use every day at the sink. In this post, I’ll walk you through a beginner-friendly solid dish soap recipe and share a few tips to help your bars last longer and cut through grease beautifully. Why I Love This Recipe This homemade solid dish soap is packed with natural grease-fighting ingredients: Coconut oil: Excellent cleansing power. Fresh lemon juice: A natural source of citric acid that helps cut through grease and reduces soap scum. Lemon zest: Adds gentle color and texture. Folded lemon essential oil: A super-concentrated citrus oil that holds up better in soap than regular essential oils. Aloe vera gel: Gives the soap a softer lather and helps balance out coconut oil’s drying effect. It smells fresh, cuts through grime, and makes your kitchen smell like sunshine. What more could you want? DIY Solid Dish Soap Recipe (Cold Process) This lemon & aloe solid dish soap recipe makes a firm, long-lasting bar perfect for daily use in your kitchen sink. Ingredients (100% Coconut Oil – 0% Superfat) 14 oz (397 g) coconut oil. 2.56 oz (73 g) sodium hydroxide (lye). 5.32 oz (151 g) distilled water. Zest of one fresh lemon. 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice. 1 tbsp aloe vera gel or liquid. 18 g folded lemon essential oil (added at light trace). If this is your very first time working with lye, I recommend taking things slowly and giving yourself a strong foundation. Inside the Beginners Course, I walk you through lye safety, basic recipes and pour-along videos so that when you tackle projects like solid dish soap, you already feel calm and confident. 👉 Learn more about the course here Step-by-Step Instructions Safety First: Always wear gloves and goggles. Weigh all ingredients with a digital scale, no measuring cups! If you're brand new to soapmaking, download my free Soap Making Checklist!. Make the lye solution Add the distilled water to a heat-safe container. Put on your gloves and goggles, then slowly sprinkle in the lye. Stir carefully, avoiding the fumes. Stir in the lemon zest Immediately stir in the lemon zest while the solution is still hot. This helps distribute the color and break down the zest. Let it cool Set the lye solution aside to cool to around 100–110°F (38–43°C). Melt the coconut oil Gently heat the coconut oil until it reaches 90–100°F (32–38°C). Combine the lye and oils Stir in the lemon juice and aloe vera into the cooled lye solution. Then pour the lye mixture into the warm oils and stir by hand. Blend to trace Use short bursts with an immersion blender, alternating with hand stirring, until the mixture reaches a light trace. Add essential oil Stir in the folded lemon essential oil. Mold the soap Pour the mixture into your preferred soap mold. Individual cavity molds work best, but loaf molds will do as well. Unmold & cure If using individual molds, leave for 24 hours before unmolding. For loaf molds, unmold and slice within 2–3 hours if firm. Tips for Success Add zest while the lye solution is still warm. This gives your soap a brighter, more even tone. Folded citrus oils (like 10x lemon or orange) are much more effective in soap than regular citrus oils. Aloe vera may slightly thicken your lye solution; just stir well and continue as usual. Even though this soap is plant-based, coconut oil can be drying. Wear reusable gloves if your hands are sensitive! Why Make Solid Dish Soap? Zero waste: No plastic bottles to toss. All-natural: You control the ingredients for a cleaner dishwashing experience. Budget-friendly: One bar lasts a long time, saving you money. Eco-conscious: Gentle on waterways and wildlife—great for the planet. Aesthetic & functional: It looks beautiful on your kitchen counter and works just as hard as liquid soap. Give It a Try! Are you ready to give it a go? Let me know how your batch turns out or tag @thesoapacademy on Instagram to share your beautiful bars! Want more cold process soap recipes like this one? Sign up for the Soap Academy newsletter to never miss a new tutorial, recipe, or workshop update! A quick snap shot of mixing lye with coconut oil Your next step If this post has you excited about making your own soaps, here’s where to go next: Download the free Soap Making Checklist – perfect to keep on your counter on soap day so you don’t forget anything when the lye comes out. Join the Botanical Soap Making Beginners Course (£149) – a calm, step-by-step online course that takes you from “I’m nervous” to “I made this!” with videos, recipes and printable guides 👉 Get the Free Checklist– 👉 Explore the Beginners Course

From bathroom shelves to market stalls, plastic-free and vegan soap bars are everywhere at the moment – and for good reason. They’re kinder to the planet, often gentler on skin, and they look beautiful lined up by the sink. In this post, we’ll explore why so many people in the UK are switching to bar soap and, most importantly, how you can start making your own at home as a beginner. Plastic-Free Soap Bars Are Back and More Popular Than Ever With climate concerns rising and the zero-waste movement gaining momentum, UK consumers are rethinking their everyday products, especially in the bathroom. According to a 2023 Mintel report, over 67% of UK adults are actively trying to reduce plastic waste. Soap bars are one of the first swaps they’re making. What does that mean for soap makers? Solid soap bars are replacing bottled body washes. Shampoo bars are now stocked in major UK supermarkets. Conditioner bars and dog soap bars are trending on Etsy and Shopify. Customers are looking for handmade, natural, and plastic-free soap options. These shifts signal a big opportunity for indie soap brands focused on natural, sustainable products. The Plastic-Free Skincare Boom The global beauty industry generates over 120 billion units of plastic packaging each year — and much of it is not recyclable. UK shoppers are increasingly aware of this waste and are taking action. Searches for "plastic-free soap UK" and "zero waste skincare" have increased dramatically on Google, especially after 2020. Sales of solid shampoo bars in the UK alone grew by over 35% year-on-year from 2020 to 2022 (Statista). If you sell or make soap, this is the time to promote: Plastic-free packaging (think paper wraps, compostable bags, or reusable tins). Biodegradable and zero-waste soap bars. Natural, minimalist formulas with no synthetic colours or preservatives. Vegan Soap Is More Than a Trend. It’s a Lifestyle! As of 2024, an estimated 3.5 million people in the UK identify as vegan or plant-based. Millions more choose vegan beauty products even if they’re not fully vegan in lifestyle. That’s a massive market for vegan soap makers to tap into. Vegan customers are actively searching for: Cruelty-free soap bars. Palm oil–free vegan soap. Plant-based skincare with no animal fats or by-products. Vegan shampoo bars and conditioner bars. If your handmade soap is vegan, be sure to highlight it in your product titles, descriptions, Etsy listings, and packaging. Use SEO-friendly keywords like "vegan soap UK", "plant-based soap", and "cruelty-free skincare" to boost visibility. If reading about plastic-free, vegan soap has you itching to try your own batch, but lye still makes you hesitate, you’re not alone. Inside my Beginners Course, we start with gentle lye safety lessons, then move into beginner-friendly recipes that can easily be made vegan and plastic-free with simple oils and botanicals. 👉 Click here to see the course curriculum Don’t Forget the Dogs! Pet Soap Bars Are on the Rise Did you know more people are now searching for natural dog soap bars in the UK than ever before? As pet owners become more ingredient-savvy, they’re seeking out: Fragrance-free or essential oil–based soaps for dogs. Oatmeal and aloe vera bars for itchy skin. Plastic-free grooming options for pets. If you offer pet-safe soap bars, this is a great niche to expand into. Just make sure all ingredients are vet-safe and clearly labelled. A Booming Market for Eco-Conscious Soap Makers From plastic-free skincare to vegan soap bars, the UK market is leaning heavily toward natural, handmade, and sustainable personal care. For soap makers, this opens the door to build a meaningful business that aligns with customer values and makes a positive impact on the planet. Whether you're just starting your soap-making journey or growing your eco-friendly brand, now is the perfect time to promote your products using keywords like: Plastic-free soap UK Vegan soap bars Zero waste skincare Natural shampoo bars Handmade soap for sensitive skin Dog soap bars UK Strategies for Success in the Handmade Soap Market To thrive in this competitive landscape, consider implementing the following strategies: 1. Embrace Sustainable Practices Adopt eco-friendly practices in your soap-making process. Use sustainable ingredients and packaging. This not only appeals to environmentally conscious consumers but also enhances your brand's reputation. 2. Build an Online Presence Create a user-friendly website and engage with customers on social media. Share your soap-making journey, product benefits, and customer testimonials. This builds trust and encourages repeat purchases. 3. Collaborate with Influencers Partner with eco-conscious influencers to reach a wider audience. Their endorsement can significantly boost your brand visibility and credibility. 4. Offer Customisation Consider offering custom soap bars tailored to individual preferences. This personal touch can attract more customers and enhance their shopping experience. 5. Educate Your Audience Provide valuable information about the benefits of using natural and plastic-free products. Blog posts, videos, and social media content can help educate consumers and position your brand as an authority in the market. Ready to Take Your Soap-Making Business to the Next Level? Your next step If this post has you excited about making your own soaps, here’s where to go next: Download the free Soap Making Checklist – perfect to keep on your counter on soap day so you don’t forget anything when the lye comes out. Join the Botanical Soap Making Beginners Course (£149) – a calm, step-by-step online course that takes you from “I’m nervous” to “I made this!” with videos, recipes and printable guides 👉 Get the Free Checklist– 👉 Explore the Beginners Course

If you’re new to soap making, lye safety for beginners can feel like the most intimidating part of learning cold process soap. And that is completely understandable. Lye, also known as sodium hydroxide, is a strong alkaline ingredient. It must be handled with care, respect, and the right safety steps. But lovely soapmakers, please don’t let that scare you away from learning. Once you understand how lye works and how to protect yourself, soap making becomes much calmer, safer, and more enjoyable. The beauty of handmade soap is that it begins with a little science, a little creativity, and a lot of care. Let’s simplify this together. What Is Lye In Soap Making? Lye is the common name for sodium hydroxide. In cold process soap making, lye is mixed with water and then combined with oils or butters. This starts a natural chemical process called saponification. During saponification, the lye and oils transform into soap. A properly made and cured bar of soap should not contain active lye in the finished product. But before that transformation happens, lye is caustic. That means it can burn skin, damage eyes, and irritate your breathing if handled poorly. Safety is not optional. It is part of good soap making. Why Lye Safety Matters For Beginners One of the biggest mistakes beginners make is thinking lye safety is only about wearing gloves. Gloves are important, but they are just one part of the process. Good soap making safety includes: Wearing the right protective equipment Measuring carefully Mixing in a safe space Using good ventilation Keeping children and pets away Knowing what to do if something spills Staying calm and focused From my experience, confidence comes from preparation. When your space is ready and your tools are laid out, the process feels much less stressful. Essential Lye Safety Equipment Before you open your lye container, gather your safety items. You will need: Safety goggles Gloves Long sleeves An apron Closed-toe shoes A heat-safe jug for lye water A stainless steel or silicone mixing spoon Accurate digital scales Good ventilation Paper towels or cloths for careful clean-up Your goggles should protect your eyes from splashes. Ordinary reading glasses are not enough. Your gloves should cover your hands well. Choose gloves that are suitable for handling chemicals. Wear long sleeves to protect your arms, and avoid loose clothing that might catch on your tools. How To Prepare Your Soap Making Space Before mixing lye, set up your work area properly. Choose a space that is: Well ventilated Clear of clutter Away from food preparation Away from children and pets Easy to wipe clean Stable and flat Open a window if possible. Some soap makers mix lye water near an open window or under suitable ventilation. Avoid leaning directly over the jug while mixing. Keep your phone, drinks, snacks, and distractions away from the area. Soap making is creative, but lye handling needs your full attention. How To Mix Lye Water Safely This is the most important rule: Always Add Lye To Water, Never Water To Lye When lye dissolves in water, it heats up very quickly. This is normal, but it must be controlled. Always follow this order: Measure your distilled water into a heat-safe jug. Measure your lye separately using accurate digital scales. Slowly sprinkle the lye into the water. Stir gently until dissolved. Step back and avoid breathing in the fumes. Leave the lye solution somewhere safe to cool. Never pour water onto lye. This can cause a dangerous reaction, including splashing or bubbling over. Also avoid using aluminium tools or containers, as lye can react with aluminium. What Happens When Lye Meets Water? When lye is added to water, the mixture becomes hot. This is called an exothermic reaction. You may notice: Heat rising from the jug Steam or fumes A cloudy liquid at first The liquid becoming clearer as it dissolves Do not touch the jug with bare hands. Do not put your face over it. Let it cool safely before using it in your soap recipe. Common Lye Safety Mistakes Beginners Make 1. Not Wearing Goggles Your eyes are delicate. Always wear proper safety goggles when handling lye, lye water, or fresh soap batter. 2. Mixing In A Busy Kitchen A crowded kitchen can lead to spills or distractions. Choose a quiet time and keep the area calm. 3. Guessing Measurements Soap making is not a “close enough” craft. Always use an accurate soap recipe and digital scales. 4. Using The Wrong Container Use heat-safe, lye-safe containers. Avoid glass if you are unsure about its durability, and never use aluminium. 5. Rushing The Process Lye safety is much easier when you slow down. Read your recipe fully before you begin. 6. Forgetting About Fresh Soap Batter Fresh soap batter can still be caustic before saponification is complete. Keep gloves on while pouring, scraping, cleaning tools, and handling fresh soap. Storing Lye Safely Store lye in its original labelled container where possible. Keep it: Tightly sealed Clearly labelled Away from moisture Away from children and pets Away from food In a cool, dry place Lye absorbs moisture from the air, so always close the lid straight after measuring. Never store lye in an unlabelled jar or food container. Cleaning Up After Soap Making When you have finished making soap, keep your gloves and goggles on while cleaning. Wipe down your workspace carefully. Wash reusable tools well and keep soap making equipment separate from everyday cooking equipment where possible. Some soap makers allow soap batter residue to sit safely until it has saponified before washing. If you do this, make sure everything is clearly marked and kept away from children, pets, and anyone else in the home. Can You Make Soap Without Handling Lye? Yes, you can make melt and pour soap without handling raw lye. Melt and pour soap base has already gone through saponification. You melt it, customise it with colour, scent, and botanicals, then pour it into moulds. This is a lovely option if you want to begin gently before moving into cold process soap. However, if you want to make cold process soap from oils and butters, lye is required. There is no true cold process soap without lye. Beginner Lye Safety Checklist Before you begin, check: Goggles are on Gloves are on Long sleeves are worn Children and pets are away Window or ventilation is open Recipe is ready Digital scales are working Water is measured first Lye is measured separately Lye will be added to water slowly Tools and moulds are ready You have enough time and no distractions This simple checklist can make your first soap making session feel much more peaceful. FAQ: Lye Safety For Beginners Is lye dangerous for beginners? Lye can be dangerous if handled carelessly, but beginners can use it safely with the right preparation, PPE, ventilation, and careful measuring. Do I need goggles when making soap? Yes. Always wear proper safety goggles when handling lye, lye water, and fresh soap batter. Can I make soap without lye? You can make melt and pour soap without handling raw lye. But cold process soap needs lye to create the saponification process. What should I do if lye touches my skin? Follow the safety guidance on your lye product’s Safety Data Sheet. In general, contaminated skin should be rinsed immediately with plenty of water. Seek medical advice if irritation or burns occur. Why do you add lye to water? Adding lye to water helps control the heat reaction. Never add water to lye, as it can cause splashing or a dangerous reaction. Is handmade soap safe after curing? A properly formulated, fully saponified, and cured soap should be safe to use. Always follow a tested recipe, measure accurately, and allow enough curing time. Conclusion Lye safety may feel overwhelming at first, but it becomes much simpler when you follow a calm routine. Prepare your space. Wear your goggles and gloves. Add lye to water slowly. Keep children and pets away. Give the process your full attention. Once you understand the safety steps, you can begin to enjoy the creative side of cold process soap making with much more confidence. Ready to start your soap making journey? Explore Soap Academy’s beginner-friendly soap making resources and printable planners to help you organise your recipes beautifully. Want the full step-by-step path? Explore the Beginner's Botanical Soap Making Course (£149)

Lavender grows best in the UK in a sunny, sheltered spot with free draining, slightly alkaline soil, and it actively dislikes rich, damp ground or heavy shade. Plant it in spring once the last frost has passed, keep it on the lean side rather than feeding it heavily, and prune it firmly each year straight after flowering to stop it going woody and bare in the middle. Lavender is the plant my whole allotment story really started with, so I have learned this one the hard way, through several plants that sulked before I understood what they actually wanted. Choosing the right spot Lavender is a Mediterranean plant at heart, so it wants sun, drainage and a little bit of neglect. Full sun for most of the day, soil on the poorer side rather than rich compost, and good drainage matter far more than feeding or fussing. If your soil is heavy clay, raising the bed slightly or working in grit before planting makes a real difference. Planting and early care Spring, once the frost risk has passed, is the safest time to plant young lavender in the UK. Water it in well to help it establish, then largely leave it alone. Established lavender is genuinely drought tolerant, and overwatering is a far more common killer than underwatering. Pruning, the step people skip This is the one that determines whether your lavender lasts two years or ten. Prune firmly straight after flowering each year, cutting back the fresh green growth but stopping short of cutting into old bare wood, which lavender generally will not regrow from. Skip this step for a couple of years and you end up with a leggy, woody plant with flowers only at the very tips. Winter care in the UK Most English lavender varieties handle a UK winter perfectly well outdoors, provided drainage is good, since it is wet roots rather than cold air that tends to cause losses. Avoid mulching too close to the base with anything that traps moisture against the stem. Why I grow it myself rather than buying it in Everything I harvest from my own lavender feeds directly into what I make. It appears as dried botanicals in my fragrance free range and, separately, essential oil is what scents my lavender bar in the essential oil range. Growing it myself means I know exactly how it was tended, right from a bed on my own allotment. Frequently asked questions What is the best soil for growing lavender in the UK? Free draining, slightly alkaline soil on the lean side, rather than rich or heavily fed ground. When should I prune my lavender plant? Straight after flowering, each year, cutting back the green growth without cutting into old woody stems. Does lavender survive UK winters outdoors? Yes, most hardy English varieties do well outdoors through a UK winter provided the soil drains freely and the roots are not sitting wet. If you would like to see what a season of lavender actually becomes, from the allotment bed to the finished bar, that whole journey is what my soap range is built around, and it is on my website.

The best time to harvest lavender for scent is just as the lower flowers on each spike start to open, rather than waiting for the whole spike to be in full bloom, and the best time of day is mid morning, once any dew has dried but before the heat of the afternoon has begun to evaporate the essential oils sitting in the flower. I time my own harvest around this every single year, because getting it even slightly wrong genuinely changes how strong the scent turns out to be. Why timing matters more than people expect Lavender's scent lives in tiny oil glands on the flower and calyx. Those oils are at their most concentrated right as the flowers begin opening rather than once they are fully spent, and they are also more easily lost to evaporation once the day heats up. Cut too late in the season, or too late in the day, and you are harvesting a plant that has already given a good portion of its scent to the air. How to actually cut it Use clean, sharp secateurs or scissors rather than tearing the stems, and cut with a decent length of stem attached, since this makes bundling for drying far easier later. Cutting on a dry morning, after any dew has burned off, avoids trapping moisture in the bundle, which can lead to mould during drying. What I do with my own harvest My lavender does double duty. Some of it is bundled and dried to become the botanical element of my fragrance free range, sitting alongside oat rather than any added scent. Separately, lavender essential oil, properly distilled, is what scents the lavender bar in my essential oil range. Cut by hand, from a bed I tend myself, then dried in the shed before it goes anywhere near a soap pot. What happens if you harvest too late Left too long, lavender flowers fade, drop and lose a significant amount of their scent to the air before you ever get near them with a pair of secateurs. The plant will still look pretty from a distance, but a harvest taken this late tends to be noticeably weaker once dried. Frequently asked questions What time of day should you cut lavender? Mid morning, once dew has dried but before the afternoon heat begins pulling scent out of the flowers. Should you harvest lavender in full bloom? No, the strongest scent tends to come just as the lower flowers on each spike start opening, rather than once the whole spike is fully out. Can you harvest lavender more than once a season? Many varieties will produce a smaller secondary flush if cut back properly after the first harvest, though the main cut remains the priority each year. Everything I cut from my own lavender bed becomes part of my soap range, either dried as a botanical or distilled as an essential oil, and both are on my website.

The best way to dry lavender and rosemary at home is to bundle small bunches with string, hang them upside down in a dark, dry, well ventilated space such as a shed or airing cupboard, and leave them undisturbed for roughly two to three weeks until the stems snap rather than bend. This is one of the quieter, more repetitive rituals of my whole year, and it happens to matter enormously for what ends up in my soap. Why drying method actually matters Rushing the process, or drying herbs somewhere warm and bright like a sunny windowsill, tends to fade colour and burn off scent before you have even finished the job. Slow, dark, airy drying preserves both far better than anything fast. The bundling method, step by step Gather small bundles rather than large armfuls, since thick bundles trap moisture in the centre and risk mould. Tie each bundle firmly near the cut end with string or a rubber band, allowing for slight shrinkage as the stems dry. Hang each bundle upside down, which helps the oils settle toward the flower or leaf rather than draining down the stem. Where to hang it A dark shed, a garage, or an airing cupboard all work well. The key requirements are darkness, to protect colour and oil content, and good airflow, to prevent mould. Direct sunlight is the enemy here, however tempting a sunny windowsill looks. How long it actually takes Roughly two to three weeks for most bundles, depending on humidity and airflow. The reliable test is the stem itself. If it snaps cleanly rather than bending, it is properly dry. If it still has any flex, it needs longer. What happens after drying Once dried, lavender flowers are gently stripped from the stem for use, while rosemary can be left as small sprigs or crumbled depending on how it will be used. In my case, dried lavender becomes part of the botanical element of my fragrance free range, while rosemary, grown steps from where I make soap, sometimes goes from allotment bed to soap mould in the very same afternoon rather than being dried at all, depending on what I am making. Frequently asked questions How do you know when dried herbs are ready to use? The stem should snap cleanly rather than bend. Any flexibility left in the stem means it needs more time. Can you dry lavender and rosemary in the same space? Yes, provided bundles are kept separate enough for good airflow around each one, and neither is exposed to direct light. Does drying lavender reduce its scent? Properly dried, slowly and in the dark, lavender retains a good amount of its scent. Fast drying in heat or light is what causes the real loss. Dried lavender from my own allotment is one of the botanicals in my fragrance free range, and you can read more about how that range is built on my website.