How to Make Butter Slime Using Ingredients You Already Have at Home

Perfect for family craft time, this butter slime making method creates stretchy, satisfying slime that's just as entertaining as traditional recipes.

Published by: Joseph Kluge

Posted on: December 07, 2025

Last modified on: December 07, 2025

Butter slime is taking the slime world by storm, and for good reason! Unlike regular slime, butter slime has an incredibly soft, smooth, and spreadable texture that feels just like... well, butter! This delightful sensory experience makes it perfect for kids who love tactile play. Plus, making butter slime together is a fantastic bonding activity that lets families create something amazing while having tons of fun.

Quick Recipe Overview

  • Makes: 1 batch (about a softball-sized amount)
  • Time: 15-20 minutes
  • Skill Level: Beginner-friendly
  • Safety: Adult supervision recommended for children under 10
  • Cost: Under $5 using common household items

Essential Ingredients for Perfect Butter Slime

Getting the right ingredients is key to achieving that signature buttery texture. Here's everything you'll need:

Basic Ingredients:

  • Shower gel or body wash (any amount - this determines your batch size)
  • White school glue (same amount as the shower gel used)
  • Cornstarch (1 teaspoon for first mixture, plus 6-7 additional teaspoons)
  • Borax activator solution (1 teaspoon borax mixed with 1 cup hot water)
  • Yellow food coloring (optional, for butter-like appearance)
  • Body lotion (just a small squeeze/drop for extra stretchiness)

Safety Note: Always have adult supervision when using borax. Wash hands thoroughly after handling borax and avoid contact with eyes or mouth.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Butter Slime

Step 1: Preparing Your Workspace

Before diving into the fun stuff, let's set up properly! Cover your work surface with parchment paper or a plastic tablecloth. Gather two mixing bowls, measuring spoons, and paper towels. Make sure you have good ventilation and wash your hands before starting.

Important Safety Reminder: Adult supervision is required when working with borax. Keep borax away from children's reach and ensure proper handwashing after use.

Step 2: Creating the First Mixture

  • Add shower gel to your first bowl - Use any amount you want, but remember you'll need the same amount of glue later 
  • Add 1 teaspoon of cornstarch to the shower gel 
  • Mix thoroughly until the mixture looks like clay consistency
  • Set this mixture aside - you'll use it later in the process

Step 3: Preparing the Glue Base

  • Add glue to your second bowl - use the exact same amount as the shower gel you used 
  • Add yellow food coloring if you want your slime to look like butter (optional)
  • Add a small squeeze of body lotion (optional) - this makes the slime more stretchy
  • Mix everything together until well combined

Step 4: Combining the Mixtures

  • Break the first mixture into small pieces - tear it into tiny chunks
  • Add pieces one at a time to the glue mixture
  • Mix thoroughly after each addition until no chunky pieces remain
  • Continue until the mixture looks like melted ice cream - smooth and uniform

Step 5: Activating with Borax Solution

Safety Warning: Borax can cause skin irritation in sensitive individuals. Adult supervision required. Wash hands thoroughly after use.

  • Prepare borax solution: Mix 1 teaspoon borax with 1 cup hot water until dissolved
  • Add the borax solution gradually to your slime mixture while stirring
  • Stir continuously as the slime begins to form and pull away from the bowl
  • Stop adding solution when the slime holds together

Step 6: Hand Kneading and Final Touches

  • Remove the slime from the bowl and work it with your hands
  • Don't worry if it's slightly sticky - we're adding more ingredients
  • Add cornstarch 1 teaspoon at a time (you'll need about 6-7 teaspoons total)
  • Keep adding cornstarch until the slime becomes matte and holds its shape
  • Knead thoroughly until the texture is soft and squishy
  • Add more lotion if you want extra stretchiness

Health and Safety Cautions

Important Borax Safety Guidelines:

  • Always have adult supervision when using borax
  • Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling borax
  • Avoid contact with eyes, mouth, or open wounds
  • Some people may experience skin sensitivity - discontinue use if irritation occurs
  • Keep borax solution away from small children and pets
  • Use in a well-ventilated area

General Slime Safety:

  • This slime is not edible - supervise young children to prevent ingestion
  • Wash hands before and after playing with slime
  • Avoid playing with slime if you have cuts or open wounds on your hands

Troubleshooting Your Butter Slime

  1. Problem: Slime is too sticky - Add more cornstarch, 1 teaspoon at a time, and knead well
  2. Problem: Slime is too stiff - Add a small amount of body lotion and knead until incorporated
  3. Problem: Slime won't activate properly - Add more borax solution, but go slowly to avoid over-activating
  4. Problem: Mixture is lumpy or uneven - Continue kneading - most texture issues resolve with more mixing time

Storage and Cleanup Tips

Proper Storage: Store your butter slime in an airtight container at room temperature. It should stay fresh for 1-2 weeks when stored properly.

Easy Cleanup: Clean up spills immediately with warm, soapy water. The ingredients are water-soluble, making cleanup relatively easy.

Hand Hygiene: Always wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after making or playing with slime, especially when borax is involved.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this butter slime recipe safe for kids? Yes, but adult supervision is required due to the borax. Always ensure proper handwashing and avoid ingestion.

Can I make this without borax? Borax is the most effective activator for this recipe. You can try liquid starch as an alternative, but results may vary.

Why does my slime feel different from store-bought versions? Homemade slime has a slightly different texture than commercial versions, but it's safer and more cost-effective.

How do I know if I've added enough cornstarch? The slime should feel matte, hold its shape, and have that signature butter-like spreadability.

Ready to create your perfect butter slime? Remember, the key is patience and following the steps carefully. Don't be discouraged if your first batch isn't perfect - even experienced slime makers need practice to get their technique just right!

Joseph Kluge

Joseph Kluge

Joseph Kluge is the voice behind the PoppyMello Slimes blog. A graphic designer and writer by trade, Joseph brings his eye for creativity and storytelling to every post. He’s also the proud father of three daughters — the imaginative powerhouses who inspire and shape the slimes that PoppyMello is known for. Through the blog, Joseph shares family-driven stories, slime care tips, and behind-the-scenes looks at the colorful world his wife and daughters bring to life.

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