How to Make Water Slime (With Glue + Special Activator)
A Clear, Cold, and Satisfying Slime Recipe Kids Will Love
Looking for a fun slime recipe that’s a little different? Water slime is cool to the touch, crystal-clear, and oh-so-satisfying to stretch and squish. It’s great for sensory play, science fun, or a relaxing activity on a rainy day.
Here’s everything you need to know to make it from the glue to the activator (trust us, that part really matters).
How Do You Make Water Slime?
To make water slime at home:
Mix ½ cup of clear glue with 3½ cups of water
In a separate bowl, mix 1 cup of warm water with 2 tablespoons of borax powder (this is your activator)
Slowly stir the activator into the glue mixture
Refrigerate for 3 hours to get the perfect stretchy, watery texture
Once it’s chilled, your water slime is ready to go!
Ingredients (and links to our favourite products)
For the Slime
½ cup clear school glue (We also recommend Elmer’s Clear Washable Glue)
3½ cups water
For the Activator
1 cup warm water
2 tablespoons borax powder (here is the borax powder we use)
Use 20 Mule Team Borax for best results
⚠️ Store-bought slime activators don’t work well for this type of slime. You’ll need to mix your own for the right consistency.
Optional Add-Ins:
Food coloring or glitter Try something like Hemway Turquoise Holographic Glitter
A sealed container for storage
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Mix Glue and Water
In a large bowl, stir together the glue and water until fully combined.
2. Make the Activator
In another container, dissolve the borax powder into the warm water. Stir until it’s fully clear.
3. Combine the Mixtures
Slowly pour the activator into the glue-water mix while stirring. You’ll see the slime start to form right away. Keep mixing until it thickens and pulls away from the sides.
4. Chill the Slime
Transfer your slime to a sealed container and place it in the fridge for 3 hours. This step helps it firm up and become extra stretchy and cool to the touch.
If your slime has bubbles, leave it in the container for a day or two until it will clear up on its own.
5. Ready to Play!
Once chilled, your water slime is done. It should be jiggly, smooth, and satisfying to squish perfect for sensory play or a stress-relieving fidget toy.
Why This Activator Is Key
Water slime needs a strong homemade activator to form properly. Store-bought versions are often too weak for high water content recipes. Using the borax mix ensures that the slime sets and stretches the way it’s supposed to.
How to Store Your Water Slime
Keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator
It should stay fresh for up to a week
If it starts getting sticky or cloudy, it’s time to make a new batch
Safety Notes
Borax is safe when used properly and in small amounts
This recipe is best for kids ages 7+ with adult supervision
Avoid contact with eyes or mouth, and wash hands after play
Always store borax out of reach of young children and pets
Want More Creative Projects Like This?
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use white glue instead of clear glue?
Nope! Clear glue is what gives the slime its transparent, watery appearance.
Do I really need to chill the slime?
Yes! The cold helps the slime firm up and gives it that cool, watery texture.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely. Just keep the same ratio between glue, water, and activator.
Is borax safe to use with kids?
In small, diluted amounts and with supervision, yes. Just be sure to follow safety guidelines and keep materials out of little hands when not in use.
Why Water Slime is Worth Making
Water slime is more than just fun; it's a creative, hands-on activity that brings together science and sensory play. It’s great for curious kids, calm-down time, or anyone who loves a good DIY project.
And when you get the glue-to-water ratio just right and use a homemade borax activator, the result is incredibly smooth, stretchy, and visually satisfying slime that’s cool to the touch.
