How to Make Playdough with Cornstarch and Conditioner
Searching for a new playdough recipe? One that offers a unique texture and wonderful scent? This playdough with cornstarch and conditioner is just what you need! It’s incredibly easy to make and requires only two ingredients that you likely already have at home. Learn how to make playdough that’s both fun and convenient.
If you’re on the hunt for an new and different playdough recipe, look no further. This playdough with cornstarch and conditioner brings a fresh texture and delightful aroma to your sensory play.
And one of the best parts? It only takes two ingredients! This budget-friendly playdough recipe is easy on the wallet because you can just pick up the ingredients at a dollar store.
Preschoolers love the smooth, pliable consistency of this playdough. It’s unlike traditional pladough recipes that use salt. This on is buttery soft and even the most subtle impressions can be seen in this playdough because of it’s smooth texture.
But it also smells heavenly. That fragrance comes from the use of conditioner. You can get really creative with that too! I love using this playdough recipe in the summertime during our summer theme preschool lesson plans, or with our beach theme or ocean preschool centers.
Check out our playdough cookbook for 45 unique and different playdough recipes.
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Why Try Cornstarch and Conditioner Playdough?
There are several reasons why you should try making playdough with cornstarch and conditioner over traditional playdough:
- Unique Texture
- The combination of cornstarch and conditioner results in a smoother, silkier texture compared to traditional playdough. This can make it more enjoyable to touch and mold.
- Pleasant Scent
- Using conditioner adds a pleasant fragrance to the playdough, which can enhance the sensory experience for both kids and adults.
- Hypoallergenic Options
- For those with sensitivities, choosing a hypoallergenic conditioner allows for a safer playdough option that avoids potential allergens found in some traditional recipes.
- Ease of Ingredients
- Many households already have cornstarch and conditioner, making this recipe convenient and cost-effective. There’s no need for a special trip to the store for unique ingredients.
- Simple and Quick
- With only two ingredients, this recipe is straightforward and quick to make, perfect for spontaneous playtime or last-minute activities. And, this recipe is both no-cook and no-heat!
- Customizable Consistency
- Adjusting the amounts of cornstarch and conditioner allows for easy customization of the dough’s firmness and texture, catering to individual preferences.
Do you need more reasons? I could go on…
Playdough Recipe with Cornstarch
Creating your own playdough at home with just cornstarch and conditioner is not only easy but also customizable.
Follow this simple recipe to make a batch of smooth, fragrant playdough that promises hours of fun for kids.
This post may contain affiliate links, which means that at no cost to you, I may earn a small sum if you click through and make a purchase.
Materials
- Cornstarch
- Hair conditioner
- Food coloring (optional)
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Kitchen Supplies Needed
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Spatula or spoon for mixing
- Airtight container or plastic bags for storage
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How to Make Playdough with Cornstarch
Making conditioner and cornstarch playdough is about as simple as it gets, but read through the process below to save you from making some simple errors.
1. Add Conditioner
Start by adding the hair conditioner to a mixing bowl. The amount can vary depending on how much playdough you want to make, but a good starting point is about 1 cup.
2. Slowly Add Cornstarch
Begin to slowly add the corn starch to the conditioner, a little bit at a time. Mix thoroughly between each addition. This step is crucial for achieving the right texture.
3. Form the Dough
Continue adding cornstarch and mixing until a soft playdough forms. You may need slightly more or less cornstarch depending on the type of conditioner you are using. Don’t worry if it’s not perfect on the first try; just keep adjusting as needed.
4. Add Color (Optional)
If you want colorful playdough, add a few drops of food coloring and knead it into the dough. This will give your playdough a vibrant, fun look!
Tips and Tricks for Perfect Playdough
- Adjusting Texture:
- The measurements in this recipe can vary based on the conditioner you use. If the dough feels too sticky, add more cornstarch. If it’s too dry, add a bit more conditioner.
- Preservation:
- Store your playdough in an airtight container to keep it fresh. If it starts to dry out, knead in a bit of conditioner to restore its softness.
- Read more about playdough tips and tricks in this blog post Making Playdough: Your Questions Answered.
Texture and Allergy Information
This cornstarch and conditioner playdough is soft and squishy, making it easy for little hands to mold and shape. The texture is smooth and incredibly silky, a bit different from traditional playdough but just as fun to play with.
Allergy-Friendly Notes
- Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it a safe option for children with gluten sensitivities.
- Conditioner Caution: Ensure the conditioner you use does not contain any allergens that your child might react to. Always check the ingredient list to confirm it’s safe for your use.
Scented Playdough for Preschool Themes
Creating scented playdough can add an extra layer of sensory exploration and delight for preschoolers. Using various conditioners and essential oils, you can create playdough that corresponds to different themes, making playtime even more engaging.
Choosing Conditioners with Unique Scents
Many conditioners come with pleasant scents that can enhance the playdough experience. Here are some ideas:
- Lavender: Perfect for a calming, nighttime theme. Lavender-scented playdough can help create a soothing environment.
- Coconut or Tropical: Ideal for beach or summer themes. These scents can evoke the feeling of being on a sunny vacation.
- Vanilla or Sweet Almond: Great for a baking or sweet shop theme. These scents can make children feel like they’re working in a bakery.
- Mint or Tea Tree: Refreshing and invigorating, suitable for winter or nature themes.
- Boosts Moisture, Increases Shine And Tames Frizz
- Color Safe
- Gentle Enough For Daily Use
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- One 10.14 Fl oz bottle of Amazon Basics Tea Tree Conditioner
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- Use daily along with Amazon Basics Tea Tree Shampoo
Using Essential Oils for Custom Fragrances
Adding a few drops of essential oils can help you tailored the playdough scent even more to different themes. Always ensure the oils are safe for children and used in appropriate amounts.
Here are some ideas:
- Citrus (Orange, Lemon, Lime): Perfect for spring or summer themes, these scents are uplifting and energizing. Try out orange creamsicle playdough recipe.
- Cinnamon or Ginger: Great for autumn or holiday themes, creating a warm and cozy atmosphere. Just add a tablespoon or so of spices to the recipe.
- Rose or Floral Blends: Ideal for garden or fairy tale themes, adding a touch of romance and magic to the playdough. This is great for Valentine’s Day themes, too. Try this rose scented playdough recipe.
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What other fragrance combinations have you tried? Leave a comment to inspire other preschool teachers and parents.
Ready to create your own batch? Gather your ingredients and start mixing! Your kids will thank you for the fun.
Playdough with Cornstarch and Conditioner
Searching for a new playdough recipe? One that offers a unique texture and wonderful scent? This playdough with cornstarch and conditioner is just what you need! It's incredibly easy to make and requires only two ingredients that you likely already have at home.
Materials
- 2 cups cornstarch
- 1 cup conditioner
- Food coloring (optional)
Tools
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Spatula or spoon for mixing
- Airtight container or plastic bags for storage
Instructions
- Start by putting the hair conditioner into a mixing bowl.
- Gradually add the cornstarch to the conditioner, a little at a time. Mix well after each addition.
- Keep adding cornstarch and mixing until a soft playdough forms. You might need a little more or less cornstarch depending on the type of conditioner you use.
- If you want colorful playdough, add a few drops of food coloring and knead it into the dough. This will give your playdough a vibrant, fun look!
Recommended Products
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I’m Sarah, an educator turned stay-at-home-mama of five! I’m the owner and creator of Stay At Home Educator, a website about intentional teaching and purposeful learning in the early childhood years. I’ve taught a range of levels, from preschool to college and a little bit of everything in between. Right now my focus is teaching my children and running a preschool from my home. Credentials include: Bachelors in Art, Masters in Curriculum and Instruction.
