ashes+water=lye+lard,stirring/setting=soap
 

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Re: ashes+water=lye+lard,stirring/setting=soap
 

I remember home made soap, I remember taking a bath with home made soap, I remember washing my hair with home made soap, I remember how my clothing smelled and felt after being washed in home made soap.
Now with that said...I prefer the convenience of the suave shampoo and the dove body soap, and the tide laundry soap, but also have had a sample of life in some of the "stan" countries while doing a bit of "consultant" work, and it really makes me appreciate soap (and water)of any type.
It is wise to know how to make your own soap.
Think about how you are going to feel after a couple of weeks in the heat wearing the same clothes and nothing to clean them with or to really do a good job of removing your own oil form your body and hair.(think about your own urine to wash your socks/underwear)
Soap is of great value, trust me on that one.

Re: ashes+water=lye+lard,stirring/setting=soap
 

I hate modern soaps give me good old fashioned man soap, pig fat and lye.
(also a bit of beeswax) its actually difficult to purchase just plain soap
mostly its safe for your eyes and heavily scented
I made a fairly large batch last year and am still using it have used it for laundry, dishes and personal washing including a shaving lather