Important Caution

Always wear protective rubber gloves and protective eyeglasses when you are making soap. Sodium Hydroxide (also called Lye or Caustic Soda) is a toxic and caustic chemical, and must be treated with respect.
Unused sodium hydroxide can be stored for future use in a safely sealed and labeled container in a location not accessible to children or pets. Ingesting lye can be fatal if not treated immediately. A recommended action is to give water only – 4 ounces for children and 8 ounces for adults – and go immediately to a hospital emergency. Check with your local poison control center for the most up-to-date procedures available.
Remember that all soap makers use lye to make soaps. Using knowledge and common sense are the best safety measures.