Lye Calculator

How to Use the Lye Calculator

The Lye Calculator is a tool designed to assist you in calculating the precise amounts of lye, water, and total batch weight needed for soap making. To use this calculator effectively, follow the steps outlined below.

Step 1: Input the Total Oil Weight

Begin by entering the total oil weight you plan to use for your soap batch.

• Total Oil Weight (grams): Enter a value between 100 and 10,000 grams. Ensure that the number increments by 1 gram as needed.

Step 2: Specify the Super Fat Percentage

The super fat percentage is the amount of excess fat left in the soap to ensure that it is moisturizing.

• Super Fat Percentage (%): Input a percentage between 0% and 20%, with increments of 0.5%.

Step 3: Set the Lye Concentration

Determine the concentration of lye to water ratio that you wish to use in your batch.

• Lye Concentration (%): Enter a concentration between 25% and 50%, using increments of 0.5%.

Step 4: Choose the Oil Type

Select the type of oil that you will be using from the dropdown menu. Each oil has a specific SAP value that affects the calculation.

• Oil Type: Options include Olive Oil, Coconut Oil, Palm Oil, Castor Oil, and Shea Butter. Select the appropriate oil that matches your recipe.

Step 5: Review the Calculated Results

Once all the input fields are completed, the calculator will automatically compute the necessary amounts for lye, water, and total batch weight based on your inputs.

• Required Lye (NaOH): This value is computed using the formula oilWeight * oilType * (1 - superFat/100). The result is displayed in grams.
• Required Water: Calculated using (lyeAmount / (lyeConcentration/100)) - lyeAmount, showing the amount of water needed in grams.
• Total Batch Weight: The sum of the oil weight, lye amount, and water amount, providing the total weight for your soap batch in grams.

By following these steps, you can accurately prepare your soap batch with precisely calculated ingredients, ensuring a successful end result.