How to Make Toothpaste Slime (Easy No Glue Recipe)

If you’re looking for a simple slime recipe without glue, learning how to make slime with toothpaste is a great place to start. This easy DIY uses everyday household ingredients to create a soft, stretchy, slime-like texture that’s fun to squish, stretch, and play with.

Unlike traditional slime recipes, this one doesn’t require school glue, borax, or contact lens solution. It’s inexpensive, beginner-friendly, and takes just a few minutes to make, making it perfect for rainy days, science activities, or sensory play.

In this guide, you’ll learn exactly how to make toothpaste slime, the best toothpaste to use, tips for getting the right consistency, common mistakes to avoid, and easy fixes if your slime doesn’t turn out as expected.

What Is Toothpaste Slime?

Toothpaste slime is a simple no-glue slime alternative made by combining toothpaste with cornstarch. The cornstarch thickens the toothpaste into a soft, moldable dough that feels similar to slime.

While it isn’t as stretchy as glue-based slime, it’s smooth, squishy, and enjoyable to play with. It’s also one of the easiest slime recipes to make because it uses ingredients many people already have at home.

The finished slime is:

• Soft and squishy
• Easy to shape
• No glue required
• No borax required
• Great for sensory play
• Quick to make with everyday ingredients

What You’ll Need

• ½ cup white toothpaste (gel toothpaste is not recommended)
• ¾ to 1 cup cornstarch
• 1 to 2 tablespoons water (if needed)
• Food coloring (optional)
• Fine glitter (optional)
• Mixing bowl
• Spoon or spatula
• Airtight container for storage

Plain white toothpaste usually creates the best texture because it’s thicker and easier to mix with cornstarch. Gel toothpastes often remain too sticky and may not produce the same smooth consistency.

How to Make Slime with Toothpaste

Step 1: Add the Toothpaste to a Bowl

Squeeze half a cup of white toothpaste into a clean mixing bowl.

Choose a bowl that’s large enough to make mixing easy.

Step 2: Add Food Coloring

If you’d like colorful slime, add a few drops of food coloring to the toothpaste.

Mix well until the color is evenly blended.

Popular colors include:

• Pink
• Blue
• Purple
• Green
• Yellow
• Rainbow colors
• Pastel shades

Step 3: Mix in Glitter

For extra sparkle, stir in a small amount of fine glitter before adding the cornstarch.

You can also use holographic glitter or biodegradable glitter for different effects.

Step 4: Add the Cornstarch Gradually

Start by adding about half of the cornstarch.

Mix thoroughly until the ingredients begin coming together.

Continue adding more cornstarch a little at a time until the mixture forms a soft dough-like consistency.

If the mixture becomes too dry, add a teaspoon of water and continue mixing.

Step 5: Knead the Slime

Transfer the mixture onto a clean surface.

Knead it with your hands for two to three minutes.

If it feels sticky, sprinkle on a little more cornstarch.

If it feels crumbly, add a few drops of water and knead again until smooth.

Step 6: Add Fun Decorations

Customize your slime by mixing in:

• Glitter
• Foam beads
• Sequins
• Confetti
• Small craft charms
• Cosmetic mica powder

Continue kneading until everything is evenly distributed.

What Your Slime Should Look and Feel Like

A successful batch should:

• Feel soft and smooth
• Hold together without falling apart
• Be easy to squeeze
• Stretch slightly without cracking immediately
• Leave very little residue on your hands

If the slime sticks to your hands, add a little more cornstarch.

If it feels too dry, knead in a few drops of water.

Tips for Getting the Best Results

Use White Toothpaste

White toothpaste usually produces a smoother texture than clear gel toothpaste.

Add Cornstarch Slowly

Different toothpaste brands vary in thickness, so add the cornstarch gradually until you reach the desired consistency.

Knead Thoroughly

The slime becomes much smoother after several minutes of kneading.

Don’t Add Too Much Water

A little water can soften the mixture, but too much will make it sticky.

Customize Your Slime

Experiment with different food colors, glitter, or scented extracts to make each batch unique.

Quick Fixes for Common Problems

How to Store Toothpaste Slime

Although toothpaste slime doesn’t last as long as traditional glue slime, proper storage will help keep it soft for longer.

• Store it in an airtight plastic container or zip-top bag.
• Keep it at room temperature.
• Avoid leaving it in direct sunlight or near heat sources.
• Wash your hands before playing with the slime to keep it clean.
• Seal the container immediately after each use.

For the best texture, enjoy toothpaste slime within one to three days. Because it’s made with household ingredients rather than glue, it will gradually dry out over time.

If it begins to feel firm, knead in a few drops of water to soften it.

FAQs

Can I make toothpaste slime without cornstarch?

Cornstarch is what thickens the toothpaste into a slime-like texture. Without it, the toothpaste will remain too soft to hold together.

Can I use gel toothpaste?

Gel toothpaste generally doesn’t work as well because it’s thinner than regular white toothpaste. For the best results, use a thick white toothpaste.

Is toothpaste slime stretchy?

Toothpaste slime is softer and less stretchy than traditional glue slime. It feels more like a stretchy sensory dough than classic slime.

Why is my slime sticky?

Sticky slime usually needs a little more cornstarch. Add it gradually while kneading until the mixture feels smooth and easy to handle.

Why is my slime cracking?

Cracking is usually caused by too much cornstarch. Add a few drops of water or a little more toothpaste and knead until the texture becomes soft again.

Can I add food coloring after making the slime?

Yes, but it’s much easier to add the food coloring before mixing in the cornstarch. This gives the slime a more even color without streaks.

Is toothpaste slime safe for children?

This recipe should always be made with adult supervision. Although toothpaste is commonly used for brushing teeth, the finished slime is not edible and should never be swallowed.

How long does toothpaste slime last?

When stored in an airtight container, toothpaste slime is best used within one to three days. If it becomes dry, develops an unusual odor, or changes texture significantly, it’s time to throw it away and make a fresh batch.

Closing Thoughts

Learning how to make slime with toothpaste is a fun and easy way to create a no-glue slime alternative using ingredients you probably already have at home. While it doesn’t have the same stretchy texture as traditional glue slime, it’s soft, squishy, and perfect for sensory play or simple DIY activities.

The key to getting the best results is using thick white toothpaste, adding the cornstarch gradually, and kneading the mixture until it’s smooth and easy to handle. Once you’ve mastered the basic recipe, you can customize it with food coloring, glitter, or fun decorations to make every batch unique.

If you’re looking for a quick, inexpensive, and mess-free slime recipe without glue or borax, this toothpaste slime is a great project to try with the whole family.