Goo, also known as slime, is a fun, stretchy, squishy substance loved by kids, crafters, and even stress-relievers of all ages. If you’re looking for a goo recipe with borax that’s simple, effective, and customizable, you’re in the right place.
This guide will walk you through the classic goo recipe using borax, plus tips to adjust texture, color, stretch, and even how to store it for longer play.
What Is Goo Made Of?
Goo is essentially a non-Newtonian fluid—it behaves like both a solid and a liquid depending on how you handle it. The secret to goo’s signature texture lies in a chemical reaction between polyvinyl acetate (PVA) glue and borax (sodium borate).
Borax acts as a cross-linker that binds the glue molecules together, creating a stretchy and bouncy material. Add-ins like water, food coloring, and lotion can further enhance the feel.
Classic Goo Recipe with Borax
This is the go-to formula for slime makers. It’s easy to make, super satisfying, and safe with proper handling.
Ingredients:
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1 cup white PVA glue (school glue)
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1 cup warm water
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1 tsp borax powder
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Optional: food coloring, glitter, fragrance
Instructions:
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Make the slime base:
In a bowl, pour the glue and mix it with 1/2 cup water. Stir until smooth. -
Add color or glitter:
If using food coloring or glitter, mix it into the glue-water base now for an even color. -
Prepare the borax activator:
In a separate cup, dissolve 1 teaspoon of borax powder in 1 cup of warm water. Stir well until the powder fully dissolves. -
Combine and stir:
Slowly pour small amounts of the borax solution into the glue mixture while stirring. You’ll see the slime begin to form immediately. -
Knead the goo:
Once it thickens, use your hands to knead it for 2–3 minutes until it becomes smooth and pliable.
How to Adjust Your Goo’s Texture
Want it stretchier? Softer? Thicker? Here’s how to tweak your goo recipe with borax to get your ideal consistency:
| Texture | How to Adjust |
|---|---|
| More stretchy | Use a 50/50 mix of white and clear glue, or add lotion |
| More firm | Add a bit more borax solution (1/2 tsp at a time) |
| Less sticky | Knead longer and add a drop or two of borax solution |
| Extra glossy | Add a few drops of baby oil or glycerin |
Clear Goo Recipe with Borax
If you want that glass-like, see-through slime look, go for a clear goo recipe.
How to make clear goo:
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Replace white glue with clear PVA glue.
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Follow the same mixing method as the classic recipe.
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Let the finished goo sit in an airtight container for 1–2 days to clear up fully (bubbles will rise and disappear).
Fluffy Goo Variation (With Borax)
Want a lighter, puffier texture? Just add shaving cream to your base mixture.
Fluffy Goo Recipe:
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1 cup white glue
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1 cup shaving cream
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1 tsp borax in 1 cup warm water
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Optional: food coloring
Steps:
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Mix glue and shaving cream together.
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Add color if desired.
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Slowly add the borax solution while stirring.
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Knead until light and airy.
This version is super soft and fun to squish!
Safety Tips When Using Borax in Goo
Borax is generally safe in small, diluted amounts, but it’s still a chemical—so handle it with care.
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Always dissolve borax in water before adding it to glue.
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Avoid contact with eyes or mouth. Wash hands after play.
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Keep out of reach of small children or pets.
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Use gloves if you have sensitive skin.
If any irritation occurs, stop using immediately and rinse with water.
How to Store Your Goo
To keep your slime fresh and reusable:
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Store in an airtight container or zip-top bag
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Keep it in a cool, dry place
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If it gets dry or stiff, add a few drops of water or lotion and knead it back to life
Well-stored goo can last up to 1–2 weeks with regular use.
Fun Add-Ins for Goo
Take your goo recipe with borax to the next level by mixing in these fun extras:
| Add-In | Effect |
|---|---|
| Glitter | Sparkly and colorful |
| Foam beads | Crunchy texture |
| Glow powder | Glow-in-the-dark fun |
| Essential oils | Soothing or energizing scents |
| Acrylic paint | Bright, opaque colors |
Make sure to mix these in during the glue stage for best results.
Common Goo Problems (and Fixes)
1. Goo is too sticky:
→ Add a drop or two of borax solution and knead longer.
2. Goo is too rubbery or breaks easily:
→ You may have over-activated it. Add lotion or more glue to soften.
3. Goo won’t form:
→ Check that your borax is fully dissolved in warm water before mixing.
Final Thoughts
This goo recipe with borax is a time-tested favorite among slime lovers, science educators, and crafty creators. Whether you’re making slime for fun, as a sensory activity, or for an experiment, this goo delivers on stretch, squish, and satisfaction.
Now it’s your turn. Gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and get hands-on with your very own homemade goo. Customize it, color it, fluff it up—just don’t forget to have fun with it.
Want more goo variations or troubleshooting help? Bookmark this page and share your creations—we’d love to see what you whip up!