Teach Soap

I have been gelling all of my soaps because my very first batch only partially gelled and that was just not good to me.

I got a new silicone mold that has small rectangle cavities. I wanted to make sure it gelled so I stuck it in my oven for about 45 minutes at 170 degrees F. It was a 100% coconut oil soap with patchouli essential oil. It went through gel phase (which looked like it happened rather quickly), but I noticed that the soap started to bubble up a little at the corners and the surface was wrinkled after all was said and done. The soap seems fine, just a bit cosmetically messed up.

I am guessing I may have overheated it. Does that sound accurate? Another batch I did had the same problem, only it was in a wooden mold - about a 3 lb. size.

If I decide to prevent gel phase next time, should I wait longer than 24 hours to try to pop those suckers out of the mold? I am planning to do a soap high in olive oil. Thanks!

I believe that happens due to the use of the silicone mold. I gelled one in a silicone loaf mold and got little air bubbles all over the tops and sides. Never have had that happen with my wooden mold. It might be better if you try to force gel in the silicone mold with maybe a heating pad and blankets/towels

Since you had the same problem with both molds, I would either check the temp of your oven (it might be off) or keep an eye on the soap and as soon as it's in full gel take it out. What temp is your oven when you put the soap in?

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Irena
Closed minds are like faulty parachutes; they refuse to open.

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Linda
I know the voices in my head aren't real, but they sure have some great ideas!

Ah ha! Yes, I think I will go ahead and try to use a heating pad next time. That's a good idea. I cpop'ed at 170 F, but maybe my oven gets hotter or the EO had something to do with it. I also like the suggestion of taking it out half way through gel phase. You guys are just awesome on this forum - everybody is so helpful. I sometimes come to just look around and see what people are asking (I don't really answer, because I'm still pretty new at this) and it has helped me just reading through some things.