Home
How to
Guide
How to make slime without borax

How to make slime without borax

Good Food team

Our homemade edible slime recipe is easily made from everyday kitchen ingredients, including cornflour and coconut milk. It's ideal for families who enjoy DIY crafts.

Slime, playdough and other messy kitchen crafts are always a hit with kids. Whether you're hosting a birthday party or are looking for a rainy day activity, our straightforward slime recipe uses just three ingredients, plus colourings and decorations of your choice.

Because it's made from storecupboard basics, it's safe for children to put in their mouths – although we'd advise against making a meal of it! Once you've got the knack of the technique, you can get creative with different colours and shapes.

For more on slime, read our comprehensive guide to making your own, which includes troubleshooting tips if you're struggling to get the right texture and finish.

Edible slime recipe

Makes 1 large ball or 2 smaller balls Prep 15 mins No cook

Ingredients
200g cornflour, sieved
50g icing sugar
175ml coconut milk (from a can), stirred
a few drops gel food colouring

Method
1. Put all the ingredients in a bowl and mix with a spoon until you have a smooth, thick paste. Once the slime has come together, use your hands to roll a little of the mixture into a ball. If it crumbles, add a little more coconut milk, 1 tablespoon at a time. If it’s too soft or liquid, add a little more cornflour until it’s pliable and stretchy.

2. The slime can dry out a little as you play with it. If this happens, simply knead with wet hands to soften it up again.

Top tips for making edible slime

If the slime firms up too much while you're kneading it, add extra water or coconut milk to loosen.
For the best finish, add gel food colourings rather than liquid versions. They'll give a stronger colour without altering the consistency. If you are using liquid food colouring, add a little more cornflour until you get the desired texture.