Can you make glycerin safely at home?

While it is possible to make glycerin at home, it requires specialized equipment, hazardous materials, and a deep understanding of chemistry. Glycerin is typically produced industrially using a process called saponification, which involves reacting fats or oils with a strong alkali, such as sodium hydroxide (lye). This process can be dangerous if not carried out properly, as lye is corrosive and can cause severe burns. Additionally, the byproduct of this reaction is soap, which must be separated from the glycerin through a further purification process.

For these reasons, it is generally not recommended to make glycerin at home unless you have the proper training, equipment, and safety measures in place. It is much safer and more practical to purchase glycerin from a reputable supplier.