Amazon (Pure Lye, Food Grade Lye), Alibaba (for bulk quantities) Variety of forms (beads, flakes, powder) Bramble Berry , Wholesale Supplies Plus , Bulk Apothecary High-purity soap making Guide to Buying Lye
Always look for 100% Sodium Hydroxide (NaOH) or 100% Pure Lye . Avoid products with added dyes, fragrances, or aluminum bits (common in some drain cleaners), as these will ruin soap batches and cause dangerous reactions. Choose Your Grade:
Buying lye (sodium hydroxide) requires some care because it is a caustic chemical. You can find it at major retailers, specialty craft stores, or online, but you must ensure you are buying the correct purity for your project (e.g., soap making or food preparation). Where to Buy Lye Powder Source Type Examples & Specific Products
Always add lye to water , never water to lye. Adding water to lye can cause a "volcano" reaction.
Necessary if you are using it for culinary purposes, such as making pretzels or curing olives.
Always use gloves and safety goggles. Lye can cause severe chemical burns or blindness immediately upon contact.
What project are you planning to use the lye for—, pretzel baking , or drain cleaning ? Lye Safety Guide | BrambleBerry