Some people keep coconut oil in the kitchen for baking [1], while others use it for their hair. Apparently, dentists even recommend it as a teeth whitener [2]. If you're the type of person who likes to have coconut oil on hand, you know the stuff can go quickly. Unfortunately, it's also hardly ever on sale — least of all the high-quality kind. But did you know that you can actually make your own 100-percent virgin coconut oil at home? You don't need any fancy equipment — just water and coconuts (or a can of coconut milk, if you're in a pinch).

With just two ingredients, coconut oil is surprisingly simple to make. It's way more cost effective than buying jar after jar, and you just might find the process to be pretty rewarding! For all the steps on how to turn coconuts into coconut oil, keep reading.

Prepare the Coconuts

Start by cutting each of the coconuts in half and draining the water inside. You can use as many as you want, but three is a good place to start.

Pulverize the Coconut Meat

Scrape the coconut meat out of the shells, and add it to a food processor. It's OK if there's still some brown inner skin, since it'll get strained out later. If you don't have a food processor, the ice-crush option on a blender works just as well.

Blend the Coconut With Water

Transfer the coconut chunks into a blender, and add water. For 3 coconuts, you'll need 3 cups of water. Blend on the highest setting until the mixture is creamy.

Begin Cooking the Mixture

Strain the coconut milk, then pour it into a large pot. Adjust the heat to the stove's lowest setting. If you're using a can of coconut milk, this will be your first step.

Simmer the Coconut Mixture

Set a timer for 1-2 hours and let the stove work its magic. As the coconut milk cooks, you'll be able to see the color change and the milk separate from the oil, but don't stir it or adjust the heat.

Continue Reducing the Coconut Mixture

After 1-2 hours, the coconut oil should be completely reduced, leaving behind a foamy oil. If it still looks cloudy or the consistency is still watery, let it cook down a bit longer.

Transfer and Store Coconut Oil

Once your coconut oil has been extracted, remove it from the stove and transfer it into a glass jar while it's still hot.

Use at Your Pleasure

Once the coconut oil cools to room temperature, it'll solidify into the product you know and love.