Is it safe to give kids slime toys with borax?
Use caution. Borax slime can irritate skin and eyes, especially during long play or repeated hand contact.
What to know
Borax is sodium borate. It helps glue turn into stretchy slime. It is also alkaline, so it can irritate skin and eyes. The risk is higher when play lasts a long time, when slime stays under nails, or when a child has eczema or cracked skin.
Skip borax slime for toddlers and any child who still puts toys or hands in their mouth. For older kids, keep the batch small, supervise it, stop if skin stings or turns red, and wash hands and the table after play.
What the research says
A 2019 CMAJ case report described hand dermatitis after homemade slime play. A 2025 evidence map found many chemicals of concern reported in children's products, especially toys, and noted that ingredients are not always easy for parents to see.
Simple wooden toys are a better everyday choice for younger kids. Save slime for short, supervised play, and throw it away when it dries out, smells bad, or picks up dirt.
The research at a glance
| Study | Journal | Year |
|---|---|---|
| Slime dermatitis. | CMAJ | 2019 |
| Identifying Potential Chemicals of Concern in Children's Products in a Regulatory Context: A Systematic Evidence Mapping Approach. | Environ Health Perspect | 2025 |