An activator is an essential ingredient in making slime, as it is what transforms a glue-based mixture into a stretchy, fun substance. Without the activator, you would just have a sticky, gooey mess. There are several different activators that can be used to make slime, each with its own unique properties. The most common activators include borax solution, baking soda and contact solution, liquid starch, and shaving cream. Below, we will explore each of these activators in detail and explain how they work in slime-making.
1. Borax Solution (Sodium Tetraborate)
Borax is one of the most widely known and commonly used activators for slime. It is a naturally occurring mineral that, when dissolved in water, forms a solution that interacts with the glue to create slime. The borax solution works by cross-linking the polymers in the glue, making the mixture thicker and more elastic.
How to Use:
- Dissolve 1 teaspoon of borax powder in 1 cup of warm water. Stir until fully dissolved to create the borax solution.
- Slowly add the borax solution to a mixture of white glue (or clear glue) and water, a little at a time, while stirring continuously.
- The mixture will begin to thicken and transform into slime as the polymers in the glue react with the borax.
Pros:
- Creates stretchy, smooth slime.
- Borax is very effective at creating a firmer slime.
Cons:
- Borax can be irritating to the skin or eyes, so always handle it carefully and supervise young children during slime-making.
- Some people prefer to avoid Borax because it is not as safe for skin contact in large quantities.
2. Baking Soda and Contact Solution
Another popular and safer activator combination involves using baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) and contact lens solution (which contains boric acid and sodium borate). This activator is often used in “fluffy” slime recipes, where the slime is lighter and airier in texture.
How to Use:
- Mix 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda into your glue mixture (usually 1/2 cup of glue).
- Slowly add 1 tablespoon of contact lens solution while stirring. Continue adding the contact solution in small amounts until the slime starts to form.
- Knead the slime with your hands until it reaches the desired consistency.
Pros:
- This method creates soft, stretchy slime that is less sticky.
- More child-friendly compared to borax-based recipes.
Cons:
- The slime can be a little more runny if not enough baking soda or contact solution is added.
- Works best with clear or white school glue.
3. Liquid Starch
Liquid starch is another effective activator for making slime. Liquid starch is often used as a laundry product, but it can also create a smooth, stretchy slime. It works similarly to Borax, by cross-linking the molecules in glue to form slime. Liquid starch tends to give the slime a more gooey and less stiff texture compared to borax-based slimes.
How to Use:
- Add 1/2 cup of liquid starch to 1/2 cup of glue.
- Stir until the mixture thickens and forms slime. You may need to add a little more starch if the slime is too sticky.
Pros:
- Easy to use and typically results in smooth, non-sticky slime.
- Less messy than using Borax.
Cons:
- Liquid starch may not be available in all areas, as it’s not as commonly used in households for laundry anymore.
- Some people prefer not to use products that are not specifically marketed for crafting.
4. Shaving Cream (For Fluffy Slime)
For those looking to make fluffy slime, shaving cream can be used as an activator when combined with a base of glue, baking soda, and contact solution. Shaving cream adds air to the mixture, giving the slime a light and fluffy texture.
How to Use:
- Combine 1/2 cup of white glue with 1/2 cup of shaving cream.
- Add 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda and mix until fully incorporated.
- Add 1 tablespoon of contact solution and stir. Gradually add more contact solution if necessary to achieve the desired consistency.
Pros:
- Creates a soft, puffy texture with a pleasant scent.
- Safe and easy to use, especially for kids.
Cons:
- The slime can become a little less stretchy and more airy than regular slime.
- Some shaving creams may not work as well, especially if they contain moisturizers or other additives.
5. Cornstarch
Cornstarch can also be used as an activator, particularly in making oobleck, a type of slime that behaves like a solid when force is applied but flows like a liquid when left undisturbed. This is a non-traditional slime, but it can be fun to experiment with.
How to Use:
- Combine 1/2 cup of cornstarch with 1/4 cup of water.
- Add food coloring if desired.
- Stir to create the thick, non-Newtonian fluid that changes its properties depending on how it is handled.
Pros:
- Non-toxic and safe for kids to play with.
- Creates a very unique slime experience.
Cons:
- Not as stretchy as other types of slime; more like a “solid-liquid” hybrid.
- Can be messy to clean up.
6. Other Alternatives:
- Gelatin: Gelatin can be used as an activator to make a more jelly-like slime. This requires dissolving gelatin in warm water and then mixing it with glue.
- PVA Glue and Slime Activator: Some pre-made slime kits or craft kits include a specific slime activator solution that is often a combination of water, borax, and other ingredients.
Conclusion
The choice of activator depends on the type of slime you want to make and the ingredients you have available. Borax and liquid starch are great for firmer, more traditional slimes, while baking soda and contact solution tend to produce softer, more flexible slimes. Shaving cream is perfect for creating light, fluffy slime, and cornstarch makes a unique non-Newtonian fluid. Whichever activator you choose, always remember to follow safety precautions, especially when using chemicals like borax, and supervise children during the slime-making process.
