How to Make Slime Stretchy
Slime is one of those magical creations that can entertain kids for hours. One of the best things about slime is how stretchy and satisfying it can be—perfect for squishing, pulling, and even performing "slime tricks!" But sometimes, slime doesn’t stretch as much as we want it to. If your slime is too thick, too stiff, or just doesn’t stretch like you hoped, don’t worry. There are simple ways to fix it and make it perfectly stretchy. Here's how to make slime stretchier and improve its texture so it’s even more fun to play with!
Note: This blog post is intended for adults and is for informational purposes only. Any detail provided here is for the sole purpose of discussion and theory, and any attempt to make slime should be done in the presence of an experienced adult, or at Kids Science Labs
1. Add More Liquid to Your Slime
If your slime isn’t stretching well, it might be a bit too thick or too dry. Adding a little more liquid can help it become more pliable and stretchy.
Add Water: A little water can go a long way in helping your slime stretch. Start by adding 1-2 teaspoons of water and knead it in until the slime feels smoother. Be careful not to add too much, as it can make your slime too runny.
Add Lotion or Baby Oil: If you want your slime to feel extra soft and stretchy, try adding a small amount of hand lotion or baby oil. This will make your slime smoother and give it that satisfying stretchiness.
2. Use the Right Type of Glue
The type of glue you use plays a big role in how stretchy your slime will be. Some glues create a thicker, stiffer slime, while others produce a more pliable, stretchy slime.
Use Clear Glue: Clear glue tends to create a more stretchy slime compared to white glue. If you’re looking for that super-stretchy, gooey texture, clear glue is the way to go.
Use Elmer’s Glue-All: If you’re using white glue, Elmer’s Glue-All is a great option because it creates a stretchier, more flexible slime than other white glues.
3. Mix in Some Baking Soda
If you’ve already made your slime and it’s too stiff, baking soda can help! It’s a great way to soften the slime and make it stretchier without adding too much liquid.
How to Use Baking Soda: Simply add about 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda to your slime, then knead it in. This will help make the slime a little more flexible and stretchy.
4. Add More Safe SLIME Activator (Do not use homemade activators as they could have unsafe concentrations of key ingredients)
You can add a few drops of whichever slime activator that works you. Adding too much at the beginning can make your slime too firm, but you can slowly add more solution and knead until it becomes stretchier.
Tip: Add small amounts of slime activator at a time to avoid making the slime too runny or sticky.
5. Knead, Knead, Knead!
One of the best ways to make slime stretchier is to knead it well. Kneading is essential to developing the right consistency. It helps all the ingredients come together and gives your slime that fun, smooth texture.
Warm It Up: If your slime feels too stiff, try warming it up in your hands by kneading it for a few minutes. The heat from your hands can help soften it up and make it more stretchy.
Take Your Time: Don’t rush the kneading process. The more you knead your slime, the better the texture will become.
6. Add a Little Bit of Cornstarch
If your slime is too sticky and you’re finding it difficult to stretch, cornstarch can be your best friend. It will help to thicken the slime a little while also keeping it stretchy. To engage kids best, we recommend having them place a popsicle stick and adding a little bit of corn starch at a time, until you get the right viscosity (thickness) and stretchy slime will result.
How to Use Cornstarch: Simply sprinkle a little cornstarch into the slime and knead it in. It will help reduce stickiness and improve the stretch.
7. Experiment with the Right Amount of Borax (For Classic Slime)
If you have an adult nearby, ask your adult to use an organic safe borax to activate and make classic slime. The key to stretchiness is using the right ratio of H20 solution to glue. If your activator is too concentrated, it will make the slime stiff, while too little will prevent it from forming properly.
If you are looking for simple ways to make baking soda activator, here is a suggestion from Arm & Hammer: https://www.armandhammer.com/en/articles/kid-friendly-slime
8. Store Slime Properly
To keep your slime stretchy and fun to play with over time, store it in an airtight container when not in use. If it starts to lose its stretchiness after a few days, you can revive it by kneading in a little bit of water or lotion. Keeping your slime sealed also helps it stay fresh and prevents it from drying out.
With these simple tips, you can easily make your slime super stretchy and enjoyable for hours of fun. Whether you’re hosting a birthday party, doing a DIY activity at home, or just indulging in some slime playtime, the stretchier, the better!
And if you want to skip the mess at home and let your kids create their perfect slime with expert guidance, check out Kids Science Labs in Chicago, Northbrook and Seattle. Our hands-on science activities (including stretchy slime!) offer the perfect experience for little scientists in our Chicago Summer Camps and Kids Birthday Party Venues in Chicago and Seattle!