How to Make Slime with Laundry Detergent Using Just 3 Simple Ingredients

Transform ordinary household items into stretchy, satisfying slime that's perfect for hours of tactile fun and stress relief!

Published by: Joseph Kluge

Posted on: December 9, 2025

Last modified on: December 9, 2025

Ready to create amazing slime using laundry detergent? This super easy recipe uses just 3 basic ingredients and takes only 5-10 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for family fun, but adult supervision is needed for safety!

Quick Recipe Overview

  • Makes: 1 medium-size batch
  • Time: 5-10 minutes
  • Level: Beginner (great for kids!)
  • Adult Supervision: Required for children under 12

Ingredients You'll Need

Essential:

  • White school glue: ½ cup
  • Water: ½ cup
  • Liquid laundry detergent: 1-2 tablespoons (start with less!)

Optional Fun Add-ins:

  • Food coloring: 3-4 drops
  • Glitter: 1 teaspoon

Tools You'll Need

  • Medium mixing bowl
  • Measuring cups
  • Spoon for stirring
  • Airtight container for storage

Important Safety Rules

⚠️ Health & Safety Cautions:

  • Adult supervision required for children under 12
  • Never use laundry pods - liquid detergent only
  • Do not eat the slime
  • Keep away from eyes and mouth
  • Wash hands thoroughly before and after making slime
  • If you have sensitive skin, wear gloves
  • Work on a covered surface to protect furniture
  • Keep away from pets and small children who might put it in their mouth

How to Make Slime with Laundry Detergent: Step by Step

Step 1: Mix Glue and Water

  • Pour ½ cup of white school glue into your bowl 
  • Add ½ cup of water 
  • Stir until completely mixed together

Step 2: Add Color (Optional)

  • Add 3-4 drops of food coloring if you want colored slime 
  • Add 1 teaspoon of glitter if you want sparkly slime 
  • Mix well until the color is even

Step 3: Add Laundry Detergent Slowly

  • Start with 1 tablespoon of liquid laundry detergent 
  • Stir the mixture continuously 
  • Watch for the slime to start forming and pulling away from the bowl

Step 4: Keep Adding Detergent If Needed

  • If your mixture is still too watery, add ½ tablespoon more detergent 
  • Keep stirring after each addition 
  • Stop when the slime starts to come together

Step 5: Knead with Your Hands

  • Take the slime out of the bowl 
  • Knead it with your hands for 1-2 minutes 
  • The slime should become smooth and stretchy 
  • It might feel a little sticky at first - this is normal!

Step 6: Test Your Slime

  • Try stretching it gently between your hands 
  • Good slime should stretch without breaking right away  
  • It should not stick too much to clean, dry hands

Fixing Common Problems

Too Sticky?

  • Add ½ teaspoon more detergent and knead again

Too Stiff?

  • Add 1 teaspoon of warm water and knead

Won't Come Together?

  • Try a different brand of laundry detergent
  • Some brands work better than others

Skin Irritation?

  • Wash hands immediately with soap and water
  • Use gloves next time
  • Try a gentler detergent brand

Storage Tips

  • Store your slime in an airtight container 
  • Keep at room temperature 
  • Should last 1-2 weeks 
  • Throw away if it smells bad or looks moldy 
  • If it gets sticky after storage, knead in 2-3 drops of detergent

Fun Variations to Try

  • Rainbow Slime: Make different colored batches and swirl together
  • Glitter Galaxy: Add extra glitter for a sparkly effect
  • Clear Slime: Use clear glue instead of white glue

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this slime safe for kids? 

Yes, when made with adult supervision and proper safety precautions. Always wash hands after playing.

What if my detergent doesn't work? 

Different brands have different strengths. Try adding the detergent more slowly, or switch to a different brand.

Can I make a bigger batch? 

Yes! Just double all ingredients: 1 cup glue, 1 cup water, and 2-4 tablespoons detergent.

How do I clean up slime messes? 

Use warm soapy water. Clean up spills quickly before they dry.

Making slime with laundry detergent is a fun and easy activity that kids and adults can enjoy together. Remember to go slow when adding the detergent, and always prioritize safety. Have fun playing with your new slime creation!

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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