*Caustic soda* = *Sodium Hydroxide (NaOH)*.
It’s a very strong chemical. You’ll see it as white flakes, pellets, or powder. In Nigeria it’s also called "caustic soda flakes" and sold in markets for soap making and cleaning.
*Main Uses in Nigeria*
*1. Soap Making*
- This is the #1 use. It’s what turns oil/palm oil into bar soap or liquid soap
- *Saponification*: Oil + Caustic soda + Water = Soap + Glycerin
- Without it, you can’t make real soap
*2. Cleaning & Drain Cleaner*
- Unclogs sinks, toilets, drains. It dissolves hair, grease, and fat
- Heavy-duty degreaser for floors
*3. Other uses*
- Food: Peeling fruits like plantain, cocoa, making pretzels
- Water treatment
- ed area* - The fumes irritate lungs
4. *Keep away from kids and pets*
5. *If it touches skin*: Rinse with lots of water for 15min immediately