Looking for a simple way to make slime without liquid starch or borax powder? This easy slime with eye drops recipe shows you exactly how to make smooth, stretchy slime using an alternative activator.
Eye drops (or eyewash) that contain boric acid can activate glue the same way saline solution does — just in a different amount. This method works especially well in places where liquid starch or borax powder are hard to find.
We’ll walk you through the exact ratios, how many drops to add, and how to knead it properly so your slime turns out soft, stretchy, and not sticky.
👉 New to slime? Start with our beginner guide → Homemade Slime Recipe
Why Eye Drops Work For Slime
Most slime activators work because they contain borate ions.
Eye drops, saline solution, and borax powder all activate glue the same way — they just use different strengths.
Eye drops are weaker than saline solution, so you need more drops to activate the slime. See the full saline solution slime recipe here.
This makes it a great method for controlling slime texture.
Ingredients
• 1/2 cup PVA washable school glue (white or clear)
• 1/2 cup water
• 1/2–3/4 tsp baking soda
• ~45–60 drops eye drops (must contain boric acid)
• Food coloring (optional)
Supplies
• Mixing bowl
• Spoon or craft stick
• Measuring spoons
• Airtight storage container
Step-By-Step Instructions
Step 1: Mix Glue and Water
Pour the glue into a bowl.
Add the water and stir until fully combined.
Step 2: Add Baking Soda
Add 1/2 to 3/4 teaspoon baking soda and mix well.
Baking soda helps strengthen the slime and control stickiness.
Step 3: Add Color (Optional)
Add food coloring and mix until evenly colored.
Step 4: Activate With Eye Drops (Slowly!)
Now begin adding eye drops in small groups.
Add about 10 drops → stir
Add 10 more → stir
Repeat
You will notice the mixture thickening gradually.
Around 40–50 drops the slime will start pulling away from the bowl but still feel sticky.
Step 5: Knead the Slime (Most Important Step)
Put a few drops of eye solution on your hands and remove the slime.
Knead slowly for 3–5 minutes.
The slime will change from sticky → stretchy → smooth.
If needed, add a few extra drops while kneading.
💡 Kneading is what actually finishes slime — not adding more activator.
How Much Eye Drop Solution Is Needed?
Typically:
White glue → ~45 drops
Clear glue → ~50–60 drops
Clear glue needs slightly more activator because it is more elastic.
Troubleshooting
Sticky slime → knead longer before adding more drops
Rubbery slime → too much activator added
Tearing slime → pull slower and let gravity stretch it
👉 Full fix guide → How To Fix Slime
The Science Behind It
Slime is a non-Newtonian fluid.
When borate ions in the eye drops bind to the glue molecules (polyvinyl acetate), they form long, flexible chains called polymers.
That’s what turns liquid glue into stretchy slime.
👉 Learn more → Slime Science Experiments
Storage
Store slime in an airtight container.
It will last several weeks.
If it feels stiff the next day, knead it again — the slime improves after resting.
Helpful Resources
• Slime Activator List
• What You Need To Make Slime
• How To Make Slime Less Sticky
• How To Get Slime Out Of Clothes And Hair
Extend the Learning with Slime
Our printable Slime Activity Pack includes step-by-step recipes, observations pages, challenges, and science extensions — perfect for home or classroom use.
How imperative is it to use the baking soda?
You definitely need it along with the saline solution for thickening and stability!
Love slime omg
Oh my gosh!!!! It worked so well!!!