Easy Cornflour Slime Recipe: Fun DIY Activity!

Sep 10, 2025 by Hugo van Dijk 47 views

Hey guys! Ever wanted to dive into a super cool, squishy, and totally mesmerizing activity? Well, you've landed in the right spot! We're going to explore the awesome world of cornflour slime today. This isn't just your average slime; it’s a non-Newtonian fluid, which means it acts like both a solid and a liquid. Mind-blowing, right? Cornflour slime, also known as Oobleck, is super easy to make, totally safe, and provides hours of entertainment. Whether you’re looking for a fun project to do with the kids, a cool science experiment, or just a way to de-stress (squishing slime is surprisingly therapeutic!), this recipe has got you covered.

What is Cornflour Slime (Oobleck)?

Before we jump into the how-to, let's chat a bit about what makes cornflour slime so special. As I mentioned, it's a non-Newtonian fluid. Now, what does that even mean? Simply put, it doesn't follow the typical rules of liquids. Usually, a liquid's viscosity (how thick or thin it is) stays the same, no matter the force you apply. But Oobleck? Oobleck is a rebel! When you apply pressure, like squeezing or punching it, it feels solid. But when you relax and let it sit in your hand, it flows like a liquid. Isn't that wild? The science behind this magic lies in the cornstarch particles suspended in water. When you apply pressure, these particles come together and resist the force, making the mixture feel solid. When the pressure is released, the particles can move freely again, and the mixture flows. This unique property makes playing with cornflour slime a fascinating sensory experience. It’s not just fun; it's educational! You can teach kids about states of matter and physics in a super engaging way. Plus, the texture is just plain cool. It's smooth, yet firm; squishy, yet resistant. Trust me, once you get your hands on it, you won’t want to put it down. And the best part? It’s incredibly simple and cheap to make. All you need are two ingredients – cornflour and water – and maybe a little food coloring if you’re feeling fancy. So, are you ready to get started and make some Oobleck magic? Let’s dive into the recipe and get our hands messy!

Ingredients You'll Need

Alright, let's gather our supplies! The beauty of this recipe is its simplicity. You really don’t need a lot to whip up a batch of cornflour slime. In fact, you probably already have most of the ingredients in your kitchen. Here’s the lowdown:

Cornflour (also known as cornstarch): This is the star of the show! You’ll need about 1 cup to start, but it’s good to have extra on hand in case you need to adjust the consistency. Cornflour is what gives the slime its unique texture and non-Newtonian properties. It's finely milled from corn kernels and is perfect for this experiment. Make sure you're using cornflour and not another type of flour, as the results won't be the same. The fine particles of cornflour are essential for creating that amazing solid-yet-liquid effect.
Water: Plain old tap water works just fine! You'll need about 1/2 cup to start, but again, you might need to add a little more or less to get the perfect consistency. The water acts as the liquid medium that allows the cornflour particles to move and interact. It's crucial to add the water gradually to avoid making the mixture too runny. Remember, we're aiming for that sweet spot where the slime feels solid when you apply pressure but flows like a liquid when you let it sit. Getting the water-to-cornflour ratio right is key to Oobleck success. Too much water, and it'll be too runny; too little, and it'll be too stiff.
Optional: Food Coloring: If you want to add a splash of color to your slime, food coloring is your best friend. You can use liquid, gel, or even powder food coloring – whatever you have on hand. Just add a few drops at a time until you reach your desired shade. This is where you can really let your creativity shine! You can make vibrant blues, greens, pinks, or even mix colors to create unique hues. Imagine a swirling galaxy of colors in your slime! Food coloring not only makes the slime visually appealing but can also add to the sensory experience. The bright colors can be especially captivating for kids. Just be mindful that some food colorings can stain, so it's a good idea to protect your surfaces and clothes while you're mixing.

And that’s it! Seriously, just those few ingredients are all you need to create some Oobleck magic. It’s amazing how such simple components can come together to create something so fascinating. Now that we've got our ingredients sorted, let's move on to the fun part: making the slime!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Okay, guys, let's get down to the nitty-gritty and make some slime! This is the part where the magic happens, and trust me, it's super easy. Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a batch of amazing cornflour slime in no time.

Grab a Bowl: First things first, you’ll need a mixing bowl. Any bowl will do, but a medium-sized one works best. You want enough space to mix the cornflour and water comfortably without making a mess (though a little mess is part of the fun, right?). A bowl that's easy to grip and hold is also a good idea, especially if you're doing this with kids. It'll help prevent any accidental spills. You can even use a clear bowl if you want to watch the slime come together from all angles. This can be especially fascinating for young scientists who love to see the process unfold. So, find your favorite bowl and let's get mixing!
Add the Cornflour: Pour about 1 cup of cornflour into your bowl. This is our base ingredient, the foundation of our Oobleck masterpiece. Make sure you're using cornflour and not another type of flour, as the texture won't be the same. The fine particles of cornflour are what give the slime its unique properties. If you're making a larger batch, you can easily scale up the recipe, but for starters, 1 cup is a great amount. It'll give you a good feel for the consistency and how the mixture comes together. Once you've poured in the cornflour, take a moment to appreciate its powdery texture. It's quite different from the smooth, gooey slime it will eventually become!
Slowly Add Water: Now, here comes the tricky part – adding the water. This is where you need to be a little patient and add the water gradually. Pour in about 1/2 cup of water to start, but don't dump it all in at once! The key is to add it little by little, mixing as you go. This will help you control the consistency and prevent the mixture from becoming too runny. If you add too much water at once, you'll end up with a watery mess, and you'll have to add more cornflour to compensate. So, take your time, pour in a little water, and start mixing with your hands or a spoon. As you mix, you'll notice the cornflour starting to absorb the water and form a thick, paste-like substance. Keep adding water slowly until you reach the sweet spot where the mixture feels solid when you press on it but flows like a liquid when you let it sit. This is the magic of Oobleck!
Mix with Your Hands (the Fun Part!): Okay, ditch the spoon! This is where things get really fun. Get your hands in there and start mixing! This is the best way to feel the Oobleck transform and get a sense of its unique texture. At first, it might feel a bit strange – like you're trying to mix cement. But as you keep mixing, you'll notice it becoming smoother and more fluid. The sensation of the slime solidifying under pressure and then melting in your hands is truly amazing. It's a fantastic sensory experience, and kids especially love getting their hands messy with it. If the mixture feels too dry, add a tiny bit more water. If it feels too runny, add a little more cornflour. The perfect consistency is when it feels solid when you poke it firmly but oozes like a liquid when you pick it up. Don't be afraid to experiment and play around with the mixture until you get it just right. Remember, there's no such thing as a perfect batch of Oobleck – each one is unique!
Add Food Coloring (Optional): If you’re feeling colorful, now’s the time to add your food coloring. Just a few drops will do the trick! Add the food coloring directly to the slime and mix it in with your hands. You can use one color for a classic look or get creative and mix colors together. Imagine swirling blues and greens to create an ocean-themed slime or mixing reds and yellows for a fiery effect. The possibilities are endless! As you mix in the food coloring, you'll see the slime transform into a vibrant, eye-catching creation. This is a great way to make your Oobleck even more visually appealing and engaging. Just be aware that some food colorings can stain, so it's a good idea to protect your surfaces and clothes. And don't worry if the color isn't perfectly uniform – a little bit of swirling and marbling can add to the fun and uniqueness of your slime.
Play and Experiment!: Woohoo! You’ve made your cornflour slime! Now comes the best part: playing with it! Go ahead, poke it, squeeze it, roll it into a ball, and then watch it melt back into a puddle. Try picking it up and letting it drip through your fingers. You’ll notice how it feels solid when you apply pressure but flows like a liquid when you relax. This is the magic of Oobleck in action! Experiment with different ways to interact with the slime and see what happens. You can even try pouring it into a container and then quickly turning the container upside down – you'll notice that the slime stays put because it's behaving like a solid under pressure. You can also try running across a pool of Oobleck (if you make a big enough batch, of course!). Because it solidifies under pressure, you can actually run on it without sinking. Playing with cornflour slime is not only fun but also educational. It's a great way to learn about non-Newtonian fluids and the properties of matter. So, go ahead, explore, experiment, and most importantly, have fun! This is your chance to unleash your inner scientist and discover the amazing world of Oobleck.

Tips for the Perfect Slime

Creating the perfect cornflour slime is a bit of an art, but don’t worry, guys, it’s totally achievable! Here are some tips and tricks to help you nail that ideal consistency and make your slime experience even more awesome:

Adjust the Consistency: The key to amazing Oobleck is the consistency. It should feel solid when you apply pressure but flow like a liquid when you let it sit. If your slime is too runny, it means you’ve added too much water. The fix? Simple! Just add a little more cornflour, a tablespoon at a time, and mix it in thoroughly. Keep adding cornflour until you reach that sweet spot where it feels firm when you poke it but oozes through your fingers when you pick it up. On the other hand, if your slime is too stiff and hard to mix, it means you need a bit more water. Add water slowly, a teaspoon at a time, and mix until you get the desired consistency. Remember, it’s always better to add ingredients gradually, as it’s easier to adjust the mixture than to try and fix it after you’ve added too much of something. And don’t be afraid to experiment! Each batch of Oobleck is unique, and you’ll develop a feel for the right consistency as you make it more often.
Use Warm Water (Optional): While cold or room temperature water works just fine, using warm water can sometimes help the cornflour mix more smoothly and quickly. The warmth can slightly soften the cornflour particles, making them easier to disperse in the water. This can result in a more consistent and less lumpy slime. However, this is totally optional, and you’ll still get great results with cold water. If you do use warm water, make sure it’s not too hot, as this could cook the cornflour slightly and change its properties. Lukewarm water is the sweet spot. Give it a try and see if you notice a difference! It might just give your Oobleck that extra smooth, silky texture.
Add Shaving Cream for a Fluffy Texture (Optional): Want to take your slime to the next level? Try adding a dollop of shaving cream! This will create a super fluffy, cloud-like texture that’s incredibly fun to play with. The shaving cream adds air and lightness to the mixture, making it feel even more unique and satisfying. Just add a squirt or two of shaving cream to your cornflour slime and mix it in thoroughly with your hands. You’ll notice the slime becoming lighter and fluffier almost instantly. This is a great way to experiment with different textures and make your slime even more sensory-rich. You can also add a few drops of essential oil to the shaving cream for a pleasant scent. Imagine a fluffy, lavender-scented cloud of slime – pure bliss! So, if you’re feeling adventurous, give shaving cream a try and see how it transforms your Oobleck.
Store it Properly: So, you’ve made your amazing cornflour slime, and you want to keep it around for more fun later. How do you store it? The key is to prevent it from drying out. The best way to store cornflour slime is in an airtight container. A plastic container with a lid or a resealable plastic bag works great. Make sure to squeeze out any excess air before sealing the container. This will help keep the slime fresh and prevent it from forming a crusty layer on top. Store the container in a cool, dry place. You can keep it at room temperature or even in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to play with it again, you might notice that the slime has separated a bit, with some water sitting on top. This is totally normal! Just give it a good mix with your hands, and it will come back together perfectly. With proper storage, your cornflour slime can last for several days, or even a week or two. So, you can enjoy your Oobleck creation again and again!

Safety First!

Okay, safety time, guys! While cornflour slime is generally super safe and non-toxic, it’s always good to keep a few things in mind to make sure everyone has a fun and worry-free experience.

Avoid Ingestion: This might seem obvious, but it’s important to remind everyone that cornflour slime is not for eating! While it’s made from edible ingredients (cornflour and water), it’s not meant to be consumed in large quantities. A little taste probably won’t hurt, but it’s best to discourage kids from eating it. Explain that it’s for playing with, not for snacking on. You can even make it a fun rule: “Oobleck is for hands, not for mouths!” This will help reinforce the idea that it’s a sensory activity, not a treat. If someone does accidentally ingest a large amount of slime, it’s always a good idea to contact a doctor or poison control center for advice. But in general, as long as you’re keeping an eye on things and reminding everyone not to eat the slime, you shouldn’t have any problems.
Supervise Children: When you’re doing any kind of activity with kids, especially messy ones like making slime, supervision is key. Make sure you’re present and engaged, helping them with the mixing and cleanup and ensuring they’re using the materials safely. Younger children might need more assistance with measuring and mixing the ingredients. You can also use this as an opportunity to teach them about following instructions and working together. Supervision is also important for preventing any accidents, like spills or messes. And of course, it’s just more fun to make slime together! You can laugh, experiment, and create some amazing memories. So, gather the kids, roll up your sleeves, and get ready for some quality slime-making time!
Wash Hands After Playing: This is another important hygiene tip. After you’re done playing with your cornflour slime, it’s a good idea to wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water. This will remove any slime residue and prevent the spread of germs. Washing hands is especially important before eating or touching your face. You can even make it a fun routine: “Slime time is over, let’s go wash our hands!” This will help kids develop good hygiene habits while also reinforcing the idea that the activity is over. Use warm water and plenty of soap, and make sure to scrub for at least 20 seconds. You can even sing a song while you wash to make it more fun. Clean hands are happy hands, and they’re ready for the next adventure!

Clean Up is a Breeze!

One of the best things about cornflour slime is that it’s super easy to clean up! Unlike some other types of slime, it doesn’t leave a sticky residue or stain surfaces. Here’s the lowdown on how to tidy up after your Oobleck adventure:

Let it Dry: The first step in cleaning up cornflour slime is to let it dry. This might seem counterintuitive, but it actually makes the cleanup process much easier. When the slime is wet, it can be a bit messy and spread around. But when it dries, it turns into a powdery substance that’s easy to sweep or vacuum up. So, if you have any spills or splatters, just let them dry completely before you try to clean them up. This might take a few hours or even overnight, depending on how much slime there is and the humidity in the air. But trust me, the wait is worth it! Once the slime is dry, it will be much easier to handle.
Sweep or Vacuum: Once the slime is dry, you can simply sweep or vacuum it up. For larger spills, a broom and dustpan work best. For smaller messes or hard-to-reach areas, a vacuum cleaner is your best friend. The dry cornflour will come up easily, leaving your surfaces clean and slime-free. If you’re using a vacuum cleaner, make sure to empty the dustbin or bag afterwards to prevent any clogs. You can also use a hose attachment to vacuum up slime from upholstery or carpets. Just be gentle and avoid rubbing the slime into the fabric. With a little sweeping or vacuuming, your space will be back to normal in no time!
Wash with Warm Water: For any remaining residue, a little warm water is all you need. Simply wipe down surfaces with a damp cloth or sponge to remove any lingering cornflour powder. You can also use a mild soap if needed. Avoid using hot water, as this can sometimes make the cornflour stickier. Warm water is the perfect temperature for dissolving the dry slime and lifting it away from surfaces. For clothing or fabrics, you can soak the item in warm water for a few minutes before washing it. This will help loosen the cornflour and make it easier to remove. With a little warm water and a gentle scrubbing action, you can easily get rid of any traces of cornflour slime. It’s truly one of the easiest slimes to clean up, which makes it a winner in my book!

Have Fun with Your Homemade Slime!

Alright, guys, you’ve done it! You’ve successfully made your very own batch of cornflour slime. Give yourselves a pat on the back – you’re officially Oobleck experts! Now, it’s time to let your imaginations run wild and have some serious fun with your new creation.

This simple mixture of cornflour and water is more than just a sensory activity; it’s a gateway to a world of playful exploration. Whether you’re a kid, a kid at heart, or a science enthusiast, cornflour slime has something to offer everyone. So, go ahead, dive in and discover the magic of Oobleck! Poke it, squeeze it, squish it, roll it, and let it ooze through your fingers. Experience the fascinating sensation of it feeling solid when you apply pressure and flowing like a liquid when you relax. It’s a truly unique and captivating texture that will keep you entertained for hours. Experiment with different colors, add glitter, or try mixing in other sensory materials like small beads or foam balls. The possibilities are endless! Cornflour slime is a fantastic way to unleash your creativity and explore the world of science in a hands-on, engaging way. It’s also a great stress reliever – there’s something incredibly soothing about squishing and manipulating this strange and wonderful substance. So, gather your friends, family, or just yourself, and get ready for some Oobleck-tastic fun! Remember, there are no rules when it comes to playing with slime. Just let your imagination be your guide, and enjoy the journey. And who knows, you might even discover a new and exciting way to interact with this amazing non-Newtonian fluid. So, go forth and have a blast with your homemade slime! The world of Oobleck awaits!