The Aleppo soap manufacturing process is a traditional process that has been passed down for generations and has a long history. Aleppo soap is one of the oldest natural soaps in the world and is produced at Sharabati using these traditional methods. This unique manufacturing process ensures the high quality and purity of our soaps, making them a truly special product.
Step-by-step to the high-quality manufacturing process Aleppo soap
1. Cooking the components
In the first step of the Aleppo soap production process, olive oil is heated in large cauldrons over an open fire. This process can take up to three days, with the oil being stirred regularly. Water and lye are then added to initiate saponification.
2. Salting out
By adding lye and water, the olive oil breaks down into glycerin and sodium salt during the Aleppo soap manufacturing process. This process is crucial for the quality of the soap and significantly influences its properties.
3. Add the bay oil
Just before the olive oil is fully saponified, bay oil is added. Depending on the recipe, the proportion of bay oil, which is also saponified, varies and contributes to the uniqueness of the Aleppo soap production process.
4. Refinement
After the soap has been salted out, the soda solution is pumped out to refine the mixture and remove excess lye. This step is essential to ensure the quality of the final product.
5. Spreading and drying
The finished soap mass is poured onto a large surface and spread evenly until it cools and semi-hardens.
6. Traditional cutting with a fork or knife plate
A particularly fascinating step in the Aleppo soap production process is the traditional cutting of the soap mass into uniform blocks. After the still warm soap mass is poured out over a large area, cooled slightly, and semi-hardened, a artisanal process begins that requires precision and experience.
The classic method uses a solid fork structure whose tines are arranged like large knives. One employee stands on the back of this structure, allowing the tines to penetrate deeply into the soap mass under their body weight. Two other employees slide the fork evenly across the surface, creating precise longitudinal cuts. The process is then repeated crosswise, dividing the soap into regular blocks.
Alternatively, some manufacturers use a wooden construction with integrated blades. This consists of a sturdy wooden board on which an employee stands. Attached to the opposite side are several sharp knives, which, thanks to the employee's body weight, penetrate the soap mass evenly and cut it cleanly. This method offers an additional advantage: The soap is not only cut but also lightly pressed – which ensures a particularly smooth and even surface.
Both artisanal techniques demonstrate the deep connection to the centuries-old soap tradition and reflect the care with which Aleppo soap is still produced today.
7. Stamping
Each bar of soap is stamped with the maker's traditional stamp, guaranteeing its authenticity and origin. This step is an important part of the Aleppo soap manufacturing process.
8. Storage and maturation
The soap bars are stacked in towers and stored for six to nine months. During this time, the outer surface oxidizes, giving the soap its characteristic golden color and completing the Aleppo soap production process.
World Heritage Site
The Old City of Aleppo, including our traditional soap factory, was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1986. This recognition underscores the cultural and historical significance of our craft and the Aleppo soap-making process.
