Mold Selection Guide for Cold Process Soap — Silicone vs Wood vs PVC
A comprehensive guide to selecting the right mold for cold process soap. Compares silicone, wood, and PVC molds with sizing calculations and batch yield estimates.
The mold you choose affects the shape, size, texture, and ease of unmolding of your bars.
Silicone Molds
Flexible and easy unmolding. Heat-resistant and durable. Non-stick surface. More expensive than wood.
Wood Molds
Inexpensive and widely available. Rigid and stable. Require lining. Rustic appearance.
PVC Molds
Rigid and dimensionally stable. Translucent material allows monitoring trace. Less widely available.
Sizing Calculations
Calculate total batter weight: oil weight x (1 + water ratio). Account for 10-15% expansion.
Batch yield is typically 95-98% of batter weight after curing.
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