Historians disagree on the origin of colloquialism “spring cleaning, ” but there is some evidence to support that it was originally a Midwinter tradition, not a spring one. The season’s association with the hearth and preparing for spring make sense. Many historical traditions reference cleaning out the old year at Midwinter. Consequently, this is a great time of year to craft cleaning products, soap and bath bombs. We naturally spend more time inside in the deep of winter, so it makes sense to turn our attention to cleaning out our physical spaces and ourselves. The kids and I try to make at least 1 new soap each year and they are much more inclined to use said soap because they make it and it’s special. We also love to make bath bombs, but that is for another time!
Melt and Pour Midwinter Soaps
Someday I’ll make real soap with my kids, but for now we stick to melt and pour. Lye and young kids are not a good combination (but more power to you if you can manage it!) The melt and pour base also lets each kid customize their soap– they enjoy mixing their own formulas in a mason jar. You can find molds in all kinds of fun shapes- lately we have been making fish soap. I made the mistake of letting them embed toys in the soap one year, you have never seen soap disappear so fast!
Materials:
- melt and pour soap base of your choice. (two we have used)
- silicone soap molds
- dried herbs and flowers (see list below)
- mason jars
- stirring stick
Method:
Follow the directions on your melt and pour soap package to melt enough soap for each child in individual mason jars. (I use the microwave and it’s super easy)
Let each child choose and add their herbs and flowers, Stir well.
Pour your soap into molds and allow to set up overnight. (or according to package)
Pop them out and enjoy a bath!
Traditional Midwinter Herbs and Plants
- Evergreens
- Bay
- Angelica
- Lavender
- Chamomile
- Violets
- Rosemary
- Birch
- Willow
- Snowdrops (you can’t really use these in the soap, but maybe as inspiration?)
- Blackberry (the seeds would be a great exfoliant!)