Soap making is super cool and science-y. But traditional soap making is a bit dangerous for kids in elementary school. The chemical reactions can burn the skin or eyes. So, if you want to make a soap making science project, what can you do?
The best way to learn how to make soap with kids is to use melt-and-pour soap. Keep reading to learn about how to use this project when you are planning your list of potential elementary school science fair projects!
Easy and Fun Soap Making Science Project!
Learn how to turn simple soap making into a science projects by following along with the guide below!
How to Turn Soap Making into a Science Fair Project
To turn any activity into a science fair project, you must include variables to test and a question to answer. For this particular experiment, we asked the question, what melting method is the best for glycerin soap?
Soap Science Project Question
We tested if melting the soap in the microwave, stove, or oven was the most effective method.
You might also want to try different soap blends, see which type of soap cleans the best, or allow your students to come up with their own questions.
Soap Science Project Hypothesis
Stage two of any science project is a hypothesis. Determine what you think will happen or what you think the best solution will be.
We thought perhaps the stove would be the best melting method.
Soap Science Project Test
During this stage, kids should test variables to see if their hypothesis is correct or incorrect.
Soap Science Project Results
Lastly, you should record the results of your experiment and identify if your hypothesis was correct or incorrect.
Browse more classic science fair projects here.
What You Need for the Soap Making Science Project
For this project, you’ll need:
- Clear Glycerin Soap Base
- Oval soap mold
- Assorted bug toys
- Microwave safe measuring cup
- Small pot
- Oven-safe container
- Wooden craft stick
- Rubbing alcohol
- Spray bottle
- Pot holders
What You Need for a Science Fair
You’ll want to have these supplies on hand before doing your science fair project. Shop the included Amazon storefronts to make things easier and don’t forget to download the free science fair planning checklist before getting started!
Science Fair Project Planning
When you’re planning your project, you want to keep everything organized. Click the image below to get my free science fair project checklist so you can start organizing your project from the start.
You may also want to check out this list of science fair project research supplies.
Supplies for a Science Fair Project
There are so many supplies for science fair projects that are individual to each project, but if you want a general list of possible supplies and inspiration for your project, check out my selection of science fair experiment supplies on Amazon.
Supplies for a Science Fair Presentation
Your science fair presentation is important! It should look presentable and eye-catching. Check out this list of my favorite science fair presentation supplies.
Step by Step Directions for the Soap Making Science Project
Cut soap into 1”x1” cubes and place in measuring cup.
Heat the oven to 200 degrees Fahrenheit.
Divide your soap evenly between 3 containers: 1 for the oven, 1 for the microwave, and 1 for the stove.
Heat each batch of soap until fully melted. Track how long it takes to melt the soap in each area. Heat in the microwave in 30-second intervals. Heat on the stove using low heat.
Label your molds to keep track of how you melted it. One mold should be labeled oven, one stove, and one microwave.
Once the soap is melted, pour a small amount of soap into each mold, just to fill the bottom of the mold.
Place a bug into each mold face down (because the bottom is the top on these molds), and move around to fit as necessary.
Fill the rest of each mold with soap.
Spray the top of each soap filled mold with alcohol to reduce bubbles.
Allow soap to set for an hour or more before removing them from the mold.
Once the mold is set, remove the soap and inspect. Are there differences in clarity and how well the soap lathers?
Record the differences and then use the data from your melt-time test to determine the best method for making melt-and-pour soap.
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