Where to rest?

maggiemarieoc · Jan 22, 2016

I just finished my very first batch of cold process soap and the directions say to insulate it and let it rest for 24-48 hours before removing it and allowing to cure. What's the best place for it to rest? Cool, dry, cold, room temp?

MrsSpaceship · Jan 22, 2016

Room temp is fine, being too cool can slow the saponification process. I keep mine in my craft room so I can close the door and not have to worry about mischievous little paws, but wherever it can sit undisturbed works.

maggiemarieoc · Jan 22, 2016

I've got it on top of a cabinet in a back storage area but that may be too chilly. I'm afraid to put it on top of my kitchen cabinet because I cook in such a small area in worried it may get to warm. Which do u think would be worse? Cuz that's what I got to choose from.

The Efficacious Gentleman · Jan 22, 2016

From the two, too warm can cause big issues whereas too cold mean it'll just take longer or maybe have a partial gel - I would risk it taking longer rather than overheating.

After a while you can work out how much insulation for each recipe is enough without being too much.

MsHarryWinston · Jan 22, 2016

I work with goats milk so I put mine directly in the freezer for 8 hours after pouring, before setting it in my office to cure.

shunt2011 · Jan 22, 2016

I keep mine in the spare bedroom on shelving. I agree with TEG with cool being a better option over too warm

amd · Jan 22, 2016

The oven. Preheated or not its a fairly safe place. Put a pan under it in case of a boil over and a sticky note over the start button so you don't accidentally turn the oven on. I have finally trained the teen to look even if there's not a note. (Midnight pizza and the oven smelled suspiciously like wild orchid... Need I say more?)