Product description

Potassium hydroxide (KOH, lye, potash, potassium hydroxid, E525) belongs among the strong hydroxides. If you are making soap, hydroxide is a substance you cannot do without. Sodium hydroxide NaOH is used for the production of bar soaps, while potassium hydroxide KOH is used for the production of liquid soaps.

The use of potassium hydroxide in soap making, similarly to sodium hydroxide, results in the saponification of fats and oils.

Since it is a strong chemical, it is necessary, when handling it, to follow certain safety measures and correctly choose its amount in the formulation. For this purpose, we recommend always using a soap calculator (an application you can easily find for example at www.soapcalc.net).

The hydroxide in our offer comes in the form of flakes, which are soluble in water. It is strongly hygroscopic, which means it easily attracts moisture, and therefore you should always store it in a closed container in a dry place.

For working with hydroxide, set aside a suitable workspace, without the presence of children, animals or food. You should work with hydroxide in a well-ventilated room and use protective equipment – gloves and goggles (ALWAYS!), suitable clothing that covers the whole body.

For preparing the solution, choose a suitable container (ideally stainless steel) and mix the solution in the sink. The solution can reach a temperature of 90 °C, so the container must be resistant. Pour the hydroxide over with cold or possibly lukewarm water, do not use warm or hot water, as this could cause a small explosion :).
When preparing the solution, we recommend holding your breath for a moment or turning your head away (you can also use a mask) to minimise the risk of inhaling the fumes.

ALWAYS SPRINKLE THE HYDROXIDE INTO THE WATER, NEVER THE OTHER WAY ROUND!

POUR THE READY SOLUTION INTO THE OILS, NEVER THE OTHER WAY ROUND!

*     In case of spilling the solution, contamination of the work surface or spilling the hydroxide flakes, neutralise them with a cloth soaked in a solution of vinegar or citric acid.
*     In case of skin contact, place the affected area under running water, rinse thoroughly and then rub or spray it with an acidic solution (solution of citric acid or vinegar).
*     In case of eye contact, rinse the eyes thoroughly for at least 30 minutes with a stream of cold water and contact a doctor immediately. Do not apply an acidic solution into the eyes.

If you follow all safety principles, no danger threatens you when working with hydroxide, and we believe that soap making will enchant you :).

More detailed information on the product quality can be found in the certificate, which we update with each new batch.

All supplied raw materials are of cosmetic grade, not suitable for internal use. When handling them, use appropriate protective equipment.