If you’re new to soap making, you’ve probably come across two popular methods - cold process and melt & pour. Both can create beautiful, nourishing soaps, but they differ in how they’re made, the ingredients used, and the level of skill required. Let’s explore what sets them apart so you can choose which one best suits your next project.
🧼 What Is Cold Process Soap?
Cold process soap is made from scratch using a combination of oils or butters and sodium hydroxide (lye). The chemical reaction between the two — known as saponification — creates soap and naturally occurring glycerin.
This traditional method gives makers complete control over every ingredient, from the type of oils and butters to the level of fragrance and colour.
Pros:
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Fully customisable formula — choose your own oils, butters, and fragrance.
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Contains glycerin, which helps moisturise and protect the skin.
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Long-lasting bars with a creamy, rich lather.
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Perfect for artisans who want full creative and ingredient control.
Cons:
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Requires safe handling of lye.
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Needs 4–6 weeks of curing time before use.
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More time-intensive and chemistry-based.
🫧 What Is Melt & Pour Soap?
Melt & pour soap starts with a pre-made soap base that’s already gone through saponification. You simply melt it, add colour, fragrance, or additives, and pour it into a mould — no lye or long curing required.
These bases often contain a higher glycerin content, which helps make them easier to melt and gives them their signature clarity and smooth texture. This same high glycerin content can also cause “glycerin dew” or mild sweating in humid conditions — a natural and harmless effect.
Pros:
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No lye handling required — the base is ready to use.
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Soap is ready to unmould and use within hours.
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Excellent for layering, embedding, and creative designs.
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Ideal for beginners, kids, and small-batch makers.
Cons:
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The base composition (main oils and surfactants) is fixed.
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Can develop glycerin dew in humid conditions.
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May not last as long as cold process bars.
⚖️ The Main Differences at a Glance
| Feature | Cold Process | Melt & Pour |
|---|---|---|
| Made From Scratch | Yes | No |
| Lye Handling | Required | Already neutralised |
| Cure Time | 4–6 weeks | Ready in hours |
| Glycerin Content | Naturally produced during saponification | Higher content added back for clarity and meltability |
| Additives Control | Full control over oils, butters, and fragrance | Can add limited extras like exfoliants and skin-safe oils |
| Texture & Appearance | Dense, handcrafted feel; can be smooth or rustic | Uniform, translucent or opaque; typically smoother edges |
| Skill Level | Intermediate–advanced | Beginner-friendly |
💡 Which One Should You Choose?
If you love experimenting and want to craft your soap completely from scratch, cold process gives you full control over every ingredient and the satisfaction of true craftsmanship.
If you’re looking for instant results, vibrant designs, and a fun, mess-free way to make soap, melt & pour is your perfect match: simple, safe, and beautifully customisable.
