Homemade squishies are soft, squeezable toys made from simple materials that mimic the feel of store-bought stress relievers. They are fun to craft and customize, making them perfect for kids and adults alike who enjoy tactile sensory play. This recipe uses non-toxic ingredients and straightforward steps to create durable, squishy shapes that bounce back slowly when squeezed.
Ingredients
- 1 cup white school glue (PVA glue)
- 1 tablespoon baking soda
- 2 tablespoons contact lens solution (containing boric acid and sodium borate)
- Optional: food coloring or acrylic paint (a few drops)
- Optional: essential oils (1-2 drops for scent)
- Optional: small craft foam pieces or beads (for texture)
Instructions
- Pour 1 cup of white school glue into a mixing bowl. Use a clear PVA glue for the best squishy texture.
- If you want colored squishies, add a few drops of food coloring or acrylic paint to the glue and mix thoroughly until the color is even.
- Add 1 tablespoon of baking soda to the glue mixture and stir well. This helps to firm up the glue and create the squishy texture.
- Slowly add 2 tablespoons of contact lens solution to the mixture while stirring continuously. The glue will start to thicken and pull away from the sides of the bowl.
- Once the mixture forms a sticky dough, use your hands to knead it inside the bowl. It will be sticky at first but should become less so as you knead.
- If the dough remains too sticky, add a few more drops of contact lens solution, kneading after each addition, until it reaches a soft but non-sticky consistency.
- Optional: knead in a few small craft foam pieces or beads for added texture and sensory interest.
- Shape the dough into your desired squishy form—simple shapes like balls, hearts, or animals work well.
- Allow the shaped squishies to sit at room temperature for 24-48 hours to cure and firm up slightly while retaining their softness.
- Once cured, your homemade squishies are ready to squeeze and enjoy!
Tips
- Glue choice matters: Use white PVA glue, not clear glue or craft glues without PVA, for the best texture and elasticity.
- Contact lens solution must contain boric acid: Check ingredients to ensure it has boric acid and sodium borate, which are crucial for the squishy reaction.
- Adjust firmness by varying baking soda and contact lens solution: More baking soda makes it firmer; more contact solution helps reduce stickiness.
- Storage: Keep squishies in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag to prevent them from drying out over time.
- Common mistake: Adding too much contact lens solution can make the squishy rubbery and hard, so add it gradually.
Serving Suggestions
Homemade squishies are perfect as stress-relief toys for both children and adults. They make great gifts, party favors, or DIY craft projects for kids’ playdates. Use them as tactile tools during study sessions or office breaks to reduce anxiety and improve focus. You can also display them on your desk or shelf as colorful, handmade décor.
Variations
Customize your squishies by experimenting with colors, scents, and textures. Add glitter or small foam beads inside the mixture for sparkle and sensory complexity. Use scented essential oils like lavender or peppermint for aromatherapy benefits. Try shaping your squishies into popular characters, food items, or geometric shapes using silicone molds or hand sculpting. For a softer, slower-rise effect, increase the glue slightly or decrease the baking soda.
Storage and Reheating
Store your homemade squishies in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag at room temperature to maintain softness. Avoid exposure to direct sunlight or heat sources that can dry them out or cause discoloration. Properly stored, squishies last several weeks to months before they begin to harden or crumble. If they become too firm, knead them gently to soften or add a tiny amount of water and knead again to restore pliability. Do not attempt to heat squishies in a microwave or oven, as this can melt or damage the materials.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use clear glue instead of white glue?
Clear glue tends to create a more rubbery, less squishy texture that may not bounce back as well. White PVA glue is preferred because it reacts better with baking soda and contact lens solution to create the ideal soft, slow-rising squishiness.
What if my squishy is too sticky or too hard?
If it’s too sticky, knead in more contact lens solution a few drops at a time until stickiness reduces. If it’s too hard or rubbery, you likely added too much contact solution or baking soda; try kneading in a small amount of glue to soften it again.
Is this recipe safe for kids?
This recipe uses non-toxic school glue and common household ingredients, but contact lens solution contains boric acid, so supervise children closely and discourage ingestion. Always wash hands after handling and avoid making squishies for very young children who might put them in their mouths.
How long do homemade squishies last?
Stored properly in airtight containers, homemade squishies can last from several weeks up to a few months before they begin to dry out or crumble. Their lifespan depends on humidity, usage, and storage conditions.
Can I add scents to my squishies?
Yes, adding a drop or two of essential oils like lavender, peppermint, or citrus can make your squishies smell pleasant. Avoid oils that can stain or irritate skin, and use sparingly to prevent altering the texture.
What should I do if my squishy falls apart?
If your squishy crumbles or breaks, it may have dried out or lacked enough binder. Try kneading in a small amount of glue and a few drops of contact lens solution to rehydrate and rebind the material. If that doesn’t work, you may need to make a fresh batch.
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