If your child loves squishy, stretchy, gooey fun, you’re not alone. Slime has become one of the most popular DIY crafts among kids – and for good reason!

It’s creative, tactile, and even a bit educational. But many slime recipes include borax, which can irritate the skin or be harmful if ingested. Thankfully, there’s a simple, borax-free alternative that’s just as fun and totally safe for little hands.

In this guide, we’ll show you how to make homemade slime using everyday ingredients, explore the science behind it, and share tips for safe play and easy cleanup.

Let’s get messy – in the best way possible!

🧪 Why Go Borax-Free?

Borax (sodium borate) is a chemical often used in household cleaners. While it helps create stretchy, satisfying slime, health experts recommend avoiding borax in kids’ crafts, especially with younger children. Exposure to high concentrations can lead to skin irritation or accidental ingestion risks.

Going borax-free doesn’t mean sacrificing fun—it just means being safe while still learning and creating!

🧼 Safe DIY Slime Recipe (No Borax!)

✨ Ingredients:

• 1 cup of white school glue (like Elmer’s)
• 1 tablespoon of baking soda
• Food coloring (optional)
• 2 tablespoons of contact lens solution (must contain boric acid and sodium borate)
• A mixing bowl and spoon

📌 Note: While this recipe uses a safe contact solution containing boric acid, it’s in small quantities and much gentler than raw borax powder.

🧪 Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Pour the glue into a bowl.
2. Add baking soda and stir well until fully combined.
3. Add food coloring if desired and mix until the color is even.
4. Slowly add contact lens solution, one spoonful at a time, mixing as you go. You’ll notice the slime beginning to form and pull away from the sides of the bowl.
5. Once it gets sticky and stretchy, knead it with your hands for a couple of minutes until it’s no longer sticky.
6. Enjoy your safe, gooey slime!

🧠 The Science Behind Slime

This DIY activity is more than just play—it’s a mini science experiment! When you mix glue (which contains long molecules called polymers) with a tiny bit of boric acid from the contact solution, a chemical reaction occurs. The glue’s molecules start linking together, forming stretchy strands: that’s your slime!

You can teach your child how liquid glue transforms into a semi-solid using just a few kitchen ingredients—how cool is that?

🧽 Tips for Parents

• Storage: Keep slime in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out.
• Safety: Always supervise young children, especially if they tend to put things in their mouth.
• Clean-up: Use vinegar or warm water to remove dried slime from clothes or surfaces.
• Creative fun: Try adding glitter, beads, or even scented oils for a fun twist!

💡 Bonus: Make It a Learning Moment!

You can turn slime-making into a full STEM activity:

• Ask your child to hypothesize what happens when you add each ingredient.
• Observe and describe the texture and consistency.
• Try experiments with different glue types or quantities.

This transforms playtime into hands-on learning—and your child won’t even realize they’re doing science!

✅ Summary

Slime doesn’t have to be risky. With this borax-free slime recipe, kids can enjoy the satisfying squish while parents breathe easy. It’s the perfect mix of creativity, science, and fun—right at your kitchen table.

So, grab some glue and goggles (just for fun!), and dive into this safe DIY adventure. Happy sliming!

🔎 Q&A

Q: Is borax dangerous for kids?
A: While small amounts of borax may not be harmful, it can irritate the skin or eyes and is best avoided in crafts for younger children.

Q: What can I use instead of borax for slime?
A: Safe alternatives include baking soda combined with contact lens solution that contains boric acid and sodium borate.

Q: Can I make slime without glue?
A: Yes! Some recipes use chia seeds, shampoo, or cornstarch. But glue-based slime gives the best texture and stretch.

Q: How do I store slime to make it last?
A: Keep it in a sealed plastic container or zip-lock bag. It should last 1–2 weeks when stored properly.

Q: What should I do if slime gets in my child’s hair or clothes?
A: Use vinegar and warm water to help break down the slime. Gently comb it out of hair and rinse clothes thoroughly.

Sources:

• National Geographic Kids – DIY Slime Recipes
• Cleveland Clinic – Is Slime Safe for Kids?
• TinkerLab – How to Make Slime Without Borax