: Lye must be stored in a cool, dry place in airtight containers made of HDPE plastic. It should never be stored in aluminum, as it reacts violently with that metal. It must be kept in a locked cabinet away from children and pets.
: For larger quantities, industrial suppliers like Bulk Apothecary or The Lye Guy offer bulk pricing for high-purity sodium hydroxide.
Most vendors catering to the hobbyist market focus on high-purity or "food-grade" lye to ensure consistency in chemical reactions. buy lye online
: Shipping lye often incurs additional surcharges. While some smaller containers (under a certain weight threshold) may qualify for limited quantity exceptions, bulk orders typically require special labeling and handling fees.
As a Class 8 Corrosive material, lye is subject to strict Department of Transportation (DOT) regulations in the United States and similar oversight elsewhere. : Lye must be stored in a cool,
: Lye is generally prohibited from air travel. Orders must be shipped via ground services, which can lead to longer delivery times.
A thorough understanding of these safety measures is necessary before attempting to purchase or use lye for any project. : For larger quantities, industrial suppliers like Bulk
: Companies such as Essential Depot, Bramble Berry, and Wholesale Supplies Plus are frequently utilized by the soap-making community. They often provide lye in micro-bead or flake form, which are designed for easier measurement and dissolution.