Ingredients
- 1/2 cup white washable school glue, about 4 fluid ounces
- 3 cups white foaming shaving cream, measured loosely rather than packed
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 tablespoon contact lens solution containing boric acid or borate, divided into 3 small additions
- 2 to 4 drops liquid food coloring (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon fine cosmetic or craft glitter (optional)
- 1 medium mixing bowl, at least 6 cups in size
- 1 measuring cup, 1/2 cup size
- 1 measuring spoon set, including a 1/2 teaspoon and 1 tablespoon
- 1 silicone spatula or sturdy craft stick, 6 to 10 inches long
- 1 pair disposable nitrile or vinyl gloves, medium or large size (optional for sensitive hands)
- 1 washable table covering or plastic drop cloth, at least 24 by 36 inches
- 1 airtight plastic container, about 2 cups in size, with a snug lid
- 1 sheet paper towel, at least 10 by 10 inches, for small spills
Instructions
- Cover your surface before you open the glue. A drop cloth or washable table covering saves the whole evening from sticky fingerprints and gives you freedom to mix without worrying about the table underneath.
- Set the bowl, measuring tools, glue, shaving cream, baking soda, contact lens solution, and optional color on the covered table. Keep the storage container nearby but leave it open for now.
- Pour 1/2 cup white washable school glue into the bowl. Use the spatula to scrape the measuring cup clean, then stir the glue for about 30 seconds so it loosens and spreads evenly across the bottom.
- Add 3 cups white foaming shaving cream, adding it in three loose cups rather than pressing it down. Fold slowly after each addition.
- Sprinkle in 1/2 teaspoon baking soda. Stir for 1 minute.
- Add 2 to 4 drops liquid food coloring if you want color and fold until you see only a few pale streaks.
- Stir in 1/2 teaspoon fine glitter if you are using it.
- Add the first teaspoon of the 1 tablespoon contact lens solution. Stir for about 1 minute, then add the second teaspoon and stir again.
- Add the final teaspoon of contact lens solution and stir for another 1 to 2 minutes. If the slime still feels very sticky, add the remaining solution in 1/4 teaspoon portions, pausing between additions.
- Coat your gloved hands lightly with a drop of contact lens solution, then lift the slime from the bowl. Fold it over itself and knead for 3 to 5 minutes.
- Check the texture with a gentle stretch. If it pulls into a soft strand and releases from your hands with only a light tackiness, it is ready.
- Place the slime in the airtight container and close the lid. Let it rest for 10 to 15 minutes before playing with it again.
- Wipe the bowl and tools with a paper towel before washing them.
Notes
Use this project with children who can follow directions and keep materials away from their mouths, generally around age 6 and up with close adult supervision.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
