The Utilization of Used Coconut and Palm Oils in Laundry Soap Formulation: Physicochemical Properties and Stains Removal Effectiveness

Abstract

Improper disposal of used cooking oil (UCO), a common byproduct of domestic and commercial cooking, poses significant environmental and health hazards. In Malaysia, large volumes of used coconut oil (UCOS) and used palm oil (UPOS) are discarded, leading to clogged drainage systems, soil contamination, and water pollution. This study addresses these issues by converting UCOS and UPOS into environmentally friendly laundry soap using the Hot Saponification Process (HSP). These oils were selected due to their high availability and favorable fatty acid profiles suitable for soapmaking.