How to make soap from fat and ashes in the wild

WRITTEN BY JON

Making soap in the wild can be a rewarding and practical experience, especially if you're on a camping or survival trip. Soap is a useful tool for cleaning, personal hygiene, and even as a fire starter. One way to make soap while in the wild is by using fat and ashes. This method has been used for centuries and is a simple and effective way to create a bar of soap without needing any fancy equipment or ingredients.

To make soap from fat and ashes, you will need the following materials:

Fat (such as animal fat or vegetable oil)

Ashes (from a fire or charcoal)

A container (such as a pot or bucket)

A wooden spoon or stick

Water

The first step in making soap from fat and ashes is to collect the fat. This can be done by rendering animal fat from an animal you have hunted or by using vegetable oil from a camping stove or lantern. It's important to note that the fat should be as pure as possible and free from any meat or bone.

Next, collect the ashes. These can be from a campfire, charcoal or even wood ash. The ashes need to be as fine as possible, and it's best to use ashes from hardwoods such as oak, hickory or maple.

In a container, mix the fat and ashes together in a ratio of about 2 parts fat to 1 part ashes. Stir the mixture with a wooden spoon or stick until it becomes a thick paste.

Now, add water to the mixture, about a cup at a time and keep stirring until it forms a thick lather. Keep adding water and stirring until the lather becomes thinner and more like soap.

The next step is to let the soap sit for a few hours, or even overnight, to allow the lye in the ashes to fully react with the fats. This process is called saponification, and it's what turns the mixture into soap.

Once the soap has set, it can be poured into a mold or molding container, such as an empty can or plastic container. Allow the soap to set for a day or two, then cut it into bars and allow it to dry for a few days before using.

It's important to note that the soap you make from fat and ashes will not be as mild or as fragrant as commercially made soap. The ash-lye mixture can be quite harsh on the skin and may cause irritation. It's best to use this soap for cleaning or as a fire starter rather than as a personal hygiene product.

Additionally, it's important to be aware that not all ashes are suitable for making soap. Ashes from treated woods, such as pressure-treated lumber or plywood, should not be used as they may contain harmful chemicals.

Making soap from fat and ashes in the wild can be a fun and practical way to take care of yourself while on a camping or survival trip. It's a simple and effective way to create a basic bar of soap that can be used for cleaning and even starting a fire. It's a great way to recycle materials and be self-sufficient in the wilderness.

In conclusion, making soap from fat and ashes in the wild is a simple and effective way to create a basic bar of soap that can be used for cleaning and even starting a fire. It's a great way to recycle materials and be self-sufficient in the wilderness. It's important to use the right materials and follow the process correctly to ensure the safety and effectiveness of the soap. Remember to be cautious and test the soap before using it on your skin, and always be mindful of the impact on the environment.