Slime is fun and tactile, and kids love to play with it. But did you know that some of the homemade slime recipes found online might be toxic? Some of these recipes contain Borax, which can be very harmful if children swallow it. Even just handling products which contain Borax can be problematic. But don’t worry—these easy, safe slime recipes use alternative ingredients that are just as effective.
Safe Slime Recipes
Borax is often used in slime recipes, as it creates the reaction that makes slime slimy. However, because it is so harmful, Borax has been banned in many countries. Other recipes call for a contact lens solution containing boric acid and sodium borate. Contact lens solution can be toxic if swallowed or splashed in the eyes, so it has no place in kids’ toys.
The best solution is to use a non-toxic slime activator from a craft or toy shop. It can be purchased quite cheaply. Alternatively, our recipe using cornstarch and dish soap makes a good, safe slime recipe alternative.
Homemade Non-Toxic Slime
- 130 ml PVA glue
- 65 ml slime activator
- Food colouring or ready-mixed paint
- Glitter – optional
1. Put the glue in a mixing bowl
2. Mix in a few drops of food colouring/paint until you get the colour you desire
3. Add glitter if you are using it
4. Add the slime activator while stirring. Keep stirring until slime starts to form.
5. Turn out the slime from the bowl and knead until it reaches your desired consistency.
6. Store the slime in an airtight container when not in use.
Cornstarch and Dish Soap Slime
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1/2 cup dish soap
- Food coloring (optional)
1. Mix the cornstarch and dish soap until well combined in a bowl.
2. If you want coloured slime, add a few drops of food colouring and stir until the colour is consistent.
3. Mix and knead the slime until it reaches a smooth, stretchy consistency.
4. If the slime is too sticky, add more cornstarch. If it’s too dry, add more dish soap.
5. Store in an airtight container when not in use.
Yogurt and Cornstarch Safe Slime Recipe
- 1/2 cup plain yogurt
- 3/4 cup cornstarch
- Food coloring (optional)
1. In a bowl, combine the yoghurt and cornstarch.
2. Mix until a dough-like consistency forms.
3. Add food colouring if desired and mix until the colour is even.
4. Mix the mixture with your hands until it turns into slime. Add more cornstarch if it’s too sticky or more yoghurt if it’s too dry.
5. Store in an airtight container when not in use.
Safety
Although these safe slime recipes avoid Borax, always supervise children during slime-making and ensure they don’t eat the mixture!
If you are using a commercial slime activator, ensure it is non-toxic and contains no harmful ingredients.
Storage
Keep your slime in airtight containers to maintain its texture and prevent it from drying out. If stored properly, most slime can last for a few weeks.
Customise your slime by using different food colourings or add eco friendly glitter for a sparkly finish. Yoghurt pots with air tight lids (such as Onken Bio pots) are ideal for storing the slime in when not in use.
Leave a Reply