Melt and Pour Soap Basics Part 2

Pour Temperature

The majority of bases on the market have a recommended pouring temperature of 140º-145ºF. This temperature may be only several degrees lower than maximum temperatures that promote dehydration. Thus it is necessary to closely control the pouring temperature.

When pouring soap over embeds or when pouring soap in layers, it is important to adjust the pour temperature of the second pour of soap. If you do not adjust your pour temperature, the Molds second pour of soap will melt the first pour of soap. To adjust the pour temperature, simply allow the soap to cool before you pour it. While cooling, if the soap forms a skin or thick layer of soap, simply mix it and it will melt with the soap below it. To prevent the first pour of soap from melting, the second pour of soap should be 125º-130ºF.

Melting Your MP Soap Base - Small Batches

A double boiler is the preferred method for heating and melting small batches of MP Soap Base. A double boiler prevents overheating, hot spots and water evaporation of the soap. Although heating MP Soap Base with a microwave can be popular, there are three reasons to avoid this.

There is little control for even heating creating hot spots.
It is likely the outer soap will boil before the inner soap has melted.
Water loss will cause disruption of the base formula and could result in MP Soap bloom and sweating.

Prolonged overheating can cause an amber discoloration. Although this discoloration does not affect the safety of the soap, it is not aesthetically pleasing. Once clear soap turns amber, it is not possible to return it to a clear color. You can add titanium dioxide to the soap to produce an opaque ivory soap that is safe for use.

Melting Your MP Soap Base - Big Batches

The preferred method for melting large batches of MP Soap Base is a water jacket melter with a digital thermostat. A water jacket is important because direct exposure to heating elements can cause the soap to turn amber. When using a water jacket melter, the thermostat should not be set higher than 130ºF. Soap should not be allowed to remain in the melter for more than 12 hours because prolonged overheating at high temperatures will cause the soap to turn amber.

Considerations for Re-Melting MP Soap Base

You can reheat MP Soap up to two times max. If soap is reheated, add 1/2 tablespoon of distilled water per pound of MP Soap Base each time the soap is reheated. Soap should not be reheated more than twice because incorporating additional water may lead to clouding of clear base, difficulties un-molding, and MP Soap bloom.

Storing Your MP Soap Base

MP Soap Base should be stored in a cool and dry area away from direct sunlight and moisture. MP Soap Base can be stored in the original packaging or if opened, plastic airtight storage containers can be used (such as plastic shoe boxes). You can also seal your soap base in plastic storage bags. Always keep your base sealed up and airtight.

Melt and Pour Soap Basics Part 2Updated 4 months ago