A question about lye

[scotsman]

I've always bought my lye locally. When I lived in Philadelphia there were plenty of places where I could find it. Now I live in Florida and the only place close to me that carries it is the Lowes hardware store a couple towns over. The one in my town doesn't stock it and won't order it for me. The one that does stock it always had a decent supply on hand. Lately though, they've been hit or miss. They are often out of it and when they do have it it's generally only one or two 32oz bottles. So, I think I'm going to make the move to purchasing it in bulk online. So I'm wondering, for those of you who purchase your lye in bulk online, who do you recommend for the best bulk price and best shipping rates. Also, it is quite humid here and I've noticed that the dry lye I weigh out for a batch will quickly start absorbing the moisture in the air and start clumping so I was wondering if anybody had any recommendations for storing a large amount of lye so that it doesn't absorb any moisture in the air as I imagine this would throw off the measurements considerably when weighing it out. Would a bucket with an airtight lid kept in the coolest part of the house be sufficient? Any help or suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

 

[Jeanea]

There seems to be a limit on the size of the container the lye is sold in. So you can buy in bulk but it will come in several containers. I buy my from wholesale supplies plus. Its a flake form, I live in Chicago its very humid here all the time. I haven't had any problems with it.

 

[judymoody]

I think that Duda Diesel is based in FL. You could also check chemical suppliers.

 

[CaraBou]

Essential Depot is in Sebring, FL; they carry lye and other soaping supplies. I visited their wine & soap bar last December and really enjoyed the experience. If you're anywhere close, stop by - otherwise check out their website and give them a call. They can likely address your humidity issues.

 

[scotsman]

Wine & soap bar? What is that? That phrase contained two of my favorite words so I'm completely intrigued now, lol!

 

[leapinglizards]

I am in Orlando and get mine at Esential Depot.... They ship. Usually when I need a bunch of stuff, it's cheaper for me to drive and pick up a big order than ship it.... so I take the afternoon off and go to Sebring.

 

[Candybee]

Essential Depot here. I live in Northern Virginia so we are both on the east coast. Good prices and fast shipping. Also, I love their packaging. They sell in 2lb containers but have sales on larger quantities. I buy several bottles at a time and never worry about the heat and humidity. The containers are sealed in plastic when they arrive.

 

[CaraBou]

Wine & soap bar? What is that? That phrase contained two of my favorite words so I'm completely intrigued now, lol!

It is exactly what you imagine: free wine while you shop for soap supplies! A dream come true, I know! They gave me all the time I needed to sniff heir sample EOs and FOs (I believe it took 2 glasses of wine). A very pleasant shopping experience!

 

[scotsman]

Sounds awesome. If I can get some free time I'll go down there and check it out.