Curing and scents

[ctay122]

I prefer to let my soaps cure in a block and then cut them when ready vs cutting them after taking them out of the mold to cure. I was wondering if it really makes a difference. My thought process is that in a block, the less surface space exposed, the less evaporation of any scent would take place. Thoughts?

 

[Adema]

I cut before curing and I have not noticed fading of scent, I have cut a cured bar in half to check if the scent is stronger inside the bar but I think it is the same. I use c.a 30 grams per 450 grams oil and my soaps keep most scents well. I would imagine that a cured block of soap would be difficult to cut and maybe the edges would be brittle,, I'm not sure but I think it is better for the water to evaporate evenly from the soap but I am no expert.

 

[heyjude]

I think you might need a chain saw if you wait a month to cut!

 

[soapbuddy]

If you leave them in a block to cure, less water will evaporate. It will give the soap a shorter time in your batch or shower as it's used. Depending on your recipe, it might be also too hard to cut, or it could crumble as you try to cut it into bars.

 

[sandyfootfarm]

Ok, what is the average time to cut for an average log. I've decided that I am cutting too early. So what is the general consensus on CP, a week, two? I know it depends on recipe etc but I'm talking on average.

 

[Adema]

Ok, what is the average time to cut for an average log. I've decided that I am cutting too early. So what is the general consensus on CP, a week, two? I know it depends on recipe etc but I'm talking on average.

With my go to recipe it takes only 6 - 7 hours from pouring to unmolding and cutting but I gel my soap..
When I was formulating my recipes it sometimes took days to unmold my ungelled soaps and cut.

 

[sandyfootfarm]

I'm not gelling, I've been doing the cut after 4 days and it is still too soft, so I'll use my chocolate log to do test cuts after set time periods.

 

[soapbuddy]

If my soap gels, I can cut it as soon as it cools off. If the soap doesn't gel, I can cut it within 24 hours. It depends on your recipe. My recipe gets hard fast and I use sodium lactate.

 

[sandyfootfarm]

I was wondering about additives that make it harden faster. I might do some trial batches using various things to see if it works with my standard recipe.

 

[nattynoo]

I leave my logs/blocks uncut. This is just how I like to roll. I don't have any trouble cutting even after a few months. My soap recipe is not a brittle one. Hard, but not brittle. I've got a log sitting there that is 8months old and easy to cut.
I too like how the scent is quiet strong inside the soap. I get what you're saying. Does it make any difference if you cut up the whole log?? I personally don't think so.
I cut away a few slices at a time and leave them cure but leave the rest of the log intact. Does that make sense.
Weird method, I know, its just me, it works though.
My biggest concern with this method was DOS. Leaving the soap moist inside for a longer period. I don't have 2yrs up my sleeve yet but my oldest block sitting there is 8months and not a sign of DOS. Excellent scent when cut.
Hope that helped a little.

 

[ctay122]

Thanks for all the feedback. I have about twelve 4 - 5 lb logs curing that are almost at 5 weeks. The only one I am a little worried about is the castile. I suppose I could have cut it the day after I made it as it is true castile with only pomace olive oil and no scent. It seems a bit hard, I guess I'll find out when I cut it tomorrow. I figure I would leave the blocks as is and cut slices as I get orders. Also think it would be kind of cool to sell this way, especially at a farmer's market or craft show...just feels a little more personalized to me.

 

[nattynoo]

Whether it'll work long term...who knows.
I too like the concept of cutting off the block.
It does have a certain charm.