Where to Buy Lye for Soap Making in Edmonton and Athabasca

Finding food-grade or technical-grade lye (sodium hydroxide) for cold-process soap making is straightforward in both cities if you know where to look.

Edmonton

• Home Hardware stores – Check the cleaning aisle; several locations carry lye in small containers.
• Specialty soap-supply shops – Soapstones and The Soap Factory are popular local retailers with a full range of soap-making ingredients.
• Grocery stores – Some larger supermarkets stock small jars in the baking or canning section.

Athabasca

• Home Hardware (Athabasca location) – Typically carries lye in the cleaning supplies aisle.
• Local grocery stores – May have small quantities in the baking/canning area; call ahead to confirm.

Tip: Always verify the product is 100% sodium hydroxide (not drain cleaner with additives). Wear gloves and goggles when handling, and store in a clearly labeled, airtight container away from children and pets.