During the demolding process of DIY handmade soap, a hot air blower can be used as an auxiliary heating tool. By heating the edge of the mold or the gap between the soap body and the mold, it helps to soften the contact surface between the soap body and the mold, making the demolding process smoother. The following are the specific tips:
First, applicable scenarios
The soap body is closely bonded to the mold: After the handmade soap solidifies in the mold, if there is no obvious gap between the soap body and the mold, direct demolding may cause damage to the soap body.
Demolding of complex molds: For molds with patterns or deep grooves, the heating by a hot air blower can reduce the friction between the soap body and the mold, preventing damage to the soap body surface during demolding.
Demolding in a low-temperature environment: In winter or when the room temperature is low, the hardness of the soap body increases. Heating with a hot air blower can soften the soap body and reduce the difficulty of demolding.
Second, operation steps
Observe the state of the soap body
Make sure the soap body has completely solidified, with a hard surface and no fingerprints when lightly pressed with fingers.
Check if there is any gap between the soap body and the mold. If there is no gap, auxiliary heating is required.
Set the parameters of the hot air blower
Temperature: It is recommended to set it at 40-50℃ to avoid melting or discoloration of the soap surface due to excessive temperature.
Wind speed: Medium to low gear (2-3 gear), to prevent excessive wind speed from causing heat dispersion.
Distance: Keep the hot air blower 10-15cm away from the mold to ensure even heat distribution.
Heating and demolding
Heat the edge of the mold: Aim the hot air blower at the edge of the mold or the gap between the soap body and the mold, move it slowly, and heat for 10 to 20 seconds.
Observe the changes in the soap body: After heating, there may be tiny gaps between the soap body and the mold. At this time, you can try to gently push the mold or use tools to assist in demolding.
Avoid excessive heating: The heating time should not be too long to prevent the surface of the soap from softening too much, which may cause shape deformation after demolding.
Third, precautions
Safe operation
Wear heat-insulating gloves to avoid scalding from high temperatures.
When operating, keep the hot air blower stable and prevent hot air from blowing directly onto the skin or flammable materials.
Temperature control
For handmade soaps containing essential oils or natural pigments, excessively high temperatures may cause the fragrance to evaporate or the color to become lighter. Therefore, the heating temperature should be appropriately reduced.
If there are signs of softening on the surface of the soap body, heating should be stopped immediately to prevent deformation of the soap body.
Post-demolding treatment
After demolding, place the handmade soap in a well-ventilated area to dry to prevent water residue from causing rancidity of the soap body.
If there are slight scratches or unevenness on the surface of the soap body, they can be treated in the subsequent finishing stage.
Fourth, alternative solutions
Freezing method: Place the mold in the freezer compartment of the refrigerator. After freezing for 1-2 hours, the soap body and the mold will automatically separate due to the principle of thermal expansion and contraction.
Warm water soaking: Soak the bottom of the mold in warm water at 40-50℃ to soften the contact surface between the soap body and the mold, which is suitable for silicone molds.
Lubricant assistance: Before entering the mold, a small amount of olive oil or Vaseline can be applied to the inner wall of the mold, but it should be noted that the lubricant may affect the surface gloss of the soap.
