Cornstarch is the classic ingredient for oobleck, but what if you run out? Or what if you want to experiment with new textures? Good news: other starches like tapioca, potato, and arrowroot work just as well.
Why Try Oobleck Alternatives?
This guide shows kids and parents how to swap cornstarch for other pantry staples and still get the same squishy, science-magic fun, but you can still refer to our traditional Oobleck recipe.
The Golden Rule of Oobleck Ratios
Adjust slowly: if it’s too runny, add more starch; if it’s crumbly, add a splash of water. No matter which starch you use, the basic ratio stays the same:
2 parts starch
1 part water
Option 1: Tapioca Starch Oobleck
Found in bubble tea pearls and gluten-free baking.
Creates a slightly more elastic, gooey oobleck.
Instructions: Mix 1 cup tapioca starch with ½ cup water.
Option 2: Potato Starch Oobleck
Softer and silkier texture.
May clump a bit more than cornstarch.
Instructions: Mix 1 cup potato starch with ½ cup water.
Option 3: Arrowroot Starch Oobleck
Smoothest texture of all.
Slightly more transparent when mixed.
Instructions: Mix 1 cup arrowroot starch with ½ cup water.
Try asking the AI Homework Helper: “What happens if I use tapioca starch instead of cornstarch?”
Fun Science Experiments With Alternatives
Compare textures: Make three batches and test stretchiness.
Color play: Add food coloring to see how each starch absorbs.
Strength test: Tap fast vs. press slow to see if results differ by starch.
Everyday Connections for Kids
Many starches used in oobleck are also found in foods:
Tapioca in bubble tea.
Potato starch in soups and sauces.
Arrowroot in gluten-free cookies.
This makes the experiment even more relatable kids realize science is everywhere.
Cleanup & Storage
Dispose of starch oobleck in the trash, not the sink.
Store in a sealed container for up to 24 hours.
Follow the same cleanup rules as cornstarch oobleck.
Read our blog post on how to dispose of oobleck
Fun Facts
Tapioca comes from the cassava root.
Potato starch is made by crushing potatoes and drying the starch.
Arrowroot was once used by Caribbean people to treat wounds.
The Bottom Line
Cornstarch isn’t the only way to make oobleck. Tapioca, potato, and arrowroot starch all create amazing textures while sticking to the 2:1 ratio.
Experiment with different starches and let kids compare results it turns simple play into a science fair at the kitchen table. For more ideas, let the AI study helper from DIY.org suggest science prompts and fun challenges.
