1 1/2 gal. soft water
1 can Red Devil lye
1/4 c. ammonia
1/3 c. vinegar
1/2 to 1 c. bleach
3 lb. can clean fat or shortening
1 1/2 gal. soft water

Melt fat and cool to lukewarm. Work in a well ventilated area. In a 5 gallon plastic pail, mix the lye into the first measure of water. Be sure to add lye slowly so it won't clump. Add the other liquids in the order listed. DON'T BREATHE THE VAPORS! Let set 1/2 day. Beat with an old egg beater 3 to 4 times a day until entire batch has set up which could take up to 3 to 4 days. It will not set up well in a cold basement in winter.

Store in covered ice cream buckets. Let cure 2-3 weeks before using. To use, dissolve 1/2-1 cup soap in a gallon of hot water (a small plastic pail works well for this) before adding to washer. Can be rubbed directly into heavily soiled areas or items can be soaked in dissolved soap. NOTE: Will not suds in hard water. Leaves towels softer than ever.