how to Make Soap with a Toy Inside for Kids

Have you ever seen those cute clear soaps that have a toy embedded in them? They cost a small fortune, but are a great way to motivate your kids to wash their hands often and for a long period of time! Once the soaps is gone, they have a new little toy. The great thing is, you can make your own "toy inside" soaps.

The process is pretty simple, you don't even need any soap making knowledge. All you need are some small toys and some glycerine soap bars. You can either use proper soap molds or just use clean tuna or sardine cans. Any small metal container will work, as will any decent sized heat resistant molds. Just be aware that if you use chocolate or candy molds, they won't be usable for edible items afterwards.

The toys that go inside the soap should be fairly tiny so they will fit completely inside. Test them in your mold first. The toy should be able to sit within the mold and not touch any of the sides. There should also be sufficient depth that the toy won't stick out of the soap. You can buy value packs of marine or farm animals at the local dollar store, or opt for mini cars.

First, chop your soap bars into roughly 1" chunks and put them in the top of a double boiler that will be used exclusively for soap making. If you don't want to ruin a pot, use a tin can to melt your soap in. Stir the soap frequently with a wooden stir stick as it begins to melt.

Lightly grease your molds to make it easier to remove the finished product later. Then pour in about ½" of soap, the amount will depend on how deep your mold is. Let this harden a few seconds, then place the toy on top in the position you want it to stay in. If the mold has a decorative top, you will want to make sure the toy is positioned to look good from the other side.

Now, fill the mold with the remaining soap liquid and tap it to help remove any air bubbles that might be trapped under and around the toy. Then you need to wait. Depending on the humidity in your area, the drying of the soap could take anywhere from a few hours to a day.

Unmold your fun toy soaps and give them as gifts or rewards. The total price should be under $2, if you use cheap glycerine soaps and you'll have a personal gift for the next children's birthday party you attend.