How to Make Slime Without Borax

Making slime doesn’t have to involve borax, glue, or even contact solution. If you’re out of the typical slime-making ingredients—or you’re just looking for a safer, gentler alternative—you’re in luck. In this guide, we’ll show you exactly how to make slime without borax, using easy-to-find household items. From fluffy to stretchy, and even glue-free options, we’ve got everything covered.

Let’s get into the best no-borax slime recipes, especially if you’re wondering how to make slime without borax or contact solution or shaving cream.

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Can You Really Make Slime Without Borax?

Yes, you absolutely can. Traditional slime relies on borax or its derivatives (like contact lens solution), but there are several alternative methods. Some don’t even require glue or baking soda.

Whether you’re avoiding borax for safety reasons or just don’t have it at home, these alternatives can still give you stretchy, fun slime-like textures.

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Fluffy Slime Without Borax, Glue, or Contact Solution

This is one of the most requested versions: how to make slime without borax, glue, and activator. It won’t be the same as classic slime, but the texture is still satisfying.

You’ll need:

• 1 cup shampoo (thicker is better)

• 1/2 cup shaving cream

• 1/4 cup cornstarch (optional but helps with structure)

• Food coloring (optional)

Steps:

1. In a bowl, combine the shampoo and shaving cream.

2. Slowly add cornstarch while mixing.

3. Knead with your hands until it thickens.

This recipe answers multiple questions like how to make slime without borax or glue, and how to make slime without borax and shaving cream if you swap the cream for lotion. You can skip the cornstarch too—just expect a looser, more fluffy texture.

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How to Make Slime Without Borax or Contact Solution

Direct answer: You can make slime without borax or contact solution using a base of glue and an alternative thickener or activator like laundry detergent, liquid starch, or baking soda with lotion.

Recipe using laundry detergent:

• 1/2 cup white glue

• A few drops of food coloring

• 1 tbsp liquid laundry detergent

Instructions:

1. Mix glue and food coloring in a bowl.

2. Slowly add detergent while stirring.

3. Knead until the slime forms and stops sticking.

This recipe is perfect if you’re looking for how to make slime without borax or contact solution and still want that classic stretch.

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How to Make Slime Without Borax or Baking Soda

Baking soda is a common slime thickener, but it’s not essential. If you’re wondering how to make slime without borax or baking soda, here’s a simple method using only glue and saline solution (note: make sure it has boric acid only if you’re not avoiding all activators).

If you’re going fully without both, try this:

Gelatin Slime (No Borax, No Baking Soda)

• 1 envelope unflavored gelatin

• 1 cup hot water

• Food coloring

• 1 tbsp sugar

• 1/4 cup corn syrup

How to make it:

1. Dissolve gelatin in hot water.

2. Add food coloring, sugar, and corn syrup.

3. Chill for 30–45 minutes.

It won’t have the stretch of typical slime, but this is an edible-safe alternative and a great sensory activity.

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Slime Without Borax or Cornstarch

A lot of glue-free slimes rely on cornstarch, but what if you’re out? Here’s how to make slime without borax or cornstarch:

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup thick conditioner

• 1/2 cup flour

Instructions:

1. Mix the conditioner and flour in a bowl.

2. Knead until the mixture is soft and moldable.

It feels more like dough, but you’ll get a similar play experience. For a softer version, use baby lotion instead of conditioner.

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How to Make Slime Without Borax or Baking Soda or Cornstarch

If you’re avoiding all three, try this ultra-minimal version:

Simple Dish Soap Slime

• 1/2 cup dish soap (like Dawn or Palmolive)

• 1 tbsp flour (can be swapped for lotion or sugar)

• Food coloring (optional)

Steps:

1. Stir the soap and flour together until thick.

2. Add coloring if desired.

3. Freeze for 10-15 minutes to solidify.

This version works best for short-term play. It’s a good answer to how to make slime without borax or baking soda or cornstarch—great for on-the-fly crafting.

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How to Make Slime Without Borax Glue and Activator

No borax, glue, or classic activator? You’ll need to get creative. Try this DIY Jello Slime for a safe, fun texture.

Ingredients:

• 1 packet of flavored gelatin

• 1/2 cup warm water

• 2 tbsp sugar

• 1 tbsp vegetable oil

Instructions:

1. Mix all ingredients in a saucepan and warm until thick.

2. Let it cool completely before handling.

It won’t have long-term stretch, but it’s safe for younger kids and works well for sensory bins.

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How to Make Slime Without Borax or Contact Solution or Shaving Cream

Looking for a more natural alternative? Here’s a two-ingredient slime method.

You’ll need:

• 1/2 cup psyllium husk (Metamucil)

• 1 cup water

Steps:

1. Mix psyllium husk and water in a microwave-safe bowl.

2. Microwave on high for 5 minutes (watch for bubbling).

3. Let cool completely.

It forms a bouncy, jelly-like slime. It’s a perfect fit for those looking for how to make slime without borax or contact solution or shaving cream.

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Slime Troubleshooting Without Borax

If your slime is too sticky, here’s how to fix it—without adding borax or baking soda:

• Add flour or cornstarch (if allowed) to thicken

• Chill in the fridge to firm it up

• Knead more to help it solidify

If your slime is too hard or crumbly:

• Add lotion, oil, or a few drops of warm water

• Mix more shampoo or conditioner if that’s your base

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Creative Add-ins for Borax-Free Slime

Want to make your no-borax slime more fun? Try these:

Even without borax, these little extras can make a big difference in how your slime looks and feels.

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Conclusion

Whether you’re out of borax or just want a safer alternative, now you know exactly how to make slime without borax or contact solution, baking soda, glue, or shaving cream. These creative recipes work with everyday household ingredients and still deliver the squishy, stretchy fun slime is famous for.

Try one today and see which version becomes your new favorite. Want more DIY slime ideas? Bookmark this guide or share it with friends who love to craft. Got a borax-free recipe of your own? Drop it in the comments and let’s keep the slime fun going.