How to Fix Putty

Co-authored by Summer Ames and Janice Tieperman

Last Updated: January 6, 2025 References

Although putty is supposed to be thicker than slime, it might feel a bit too firm when you make a new batch or buy some from the store.^{[1]
X
Research source} While there are ways to turn putty into slime, you can use a few simple household ingredients to make your putty softer and more pliable. Try playing around with your putty until it feels softer or less sticky!

Method 1

Method 1 of 2:

Making Soft Putty with Water and Hand Lotion

Download Article

1
Mix 1 to 2 US tbsp (15 to 30 mL) of water into your putty. Lay your putty on a flat surface, like a table or desk. Pour a few spoonfuls of water into the putty, then begin molding and kneading it with your fingers to see if it feels any softer or more pliable.^{[2]
X
Research source}
- If you’re using store-bought putty, check the label to see if you can add in water or other ingredients.
- Lukewarm or cool tap water works well for this.
2
Add 1 squirt of hand lotion into the putty if it still feels firm. Hold your putty in 1 hand, then squeeze a pea-sized amount of lotion into the putty. Use both hands to fold the slime into the putty to see if it becomes any softer.^{[3]
X
Research source}
- You can use any kind of lotion for this!
Advertisement
3
Soak your putty in water overnight if it’s still too firm. Place your putty back in its original container, leaving space between the top of the putty and the edge of the container. Pour several spoonfuls of lukewarm water on top of the putty and cover it with the lid. Let the putty sit overnight, then mix and knead in any excess water.^{[4]
X
Research source}
- If the putty didn’t come in a container, use your own covered container for soaking and storage.
Fill a large bowl halfway with hot water so you can soak your putty. Place your putty in the water and begin folding and squeezing it with your hands. Continue kneading it in the water until it feels softer and easier to play with.^{[5]
X
Research source}

Fixing Sticky Putty

Fill 2 Ziploc bags with ice cubes, then sandwich your sticky putty in between. Press both of the bags together for 1 minute so your putty can cool down and become less sticky!^{[6]
X
Research source}

Method 2

Method 2 of 2:

Softening with Soap or Hair Gel

Download Article

Choose a scented or in scented hand soap to use as a thinning agent for your putty. Add a blueberry-sized amount to your putty, then massage the soap in with your hands. Keep folding and kneading the putty until it reaches a softer consistency.^{[7]
X
Research source}

Tip: This might work better if you add a pea-sized amount of hand lotion to the putty first.
2
Mix in several spoonfuls of hair gel to give your putty a slime texture. Place your putty in a large, microwaveable bowl or container, then add in at least 1 to 2 tablespoons (15 to 30 mL) of hair gel. Use your hands to knead the hair gel into the putty, folding and squeezing it until the gel is completely absorbed.^{[8]
X
Research source}
- If you’re working with a large batch of putty, you might want to use more gel. Similarly, if you’re working with a smaller amount, you might want to start with 1 tablespoon (15 mL).
3
Microwave your slime for 2 minutes after adding in the gel. Place the bowl of putty in the microwave and heat it at a standard temperature for around 2 minutes. Let the putty cool, then touch and fold it to see if it feels softer.^{[9]
X
Research source}
- Wait around 10 minutes, or until the putty is no longer hot to the touch.
If your putty isn’t soft enough, work a few more spoonfuls into the mixture. Heat the putty for 2 minutes, then wait for it to cool before handling it. Continue repeating this cycle until your putty is as soft as you’d like it to be!^{[10]
X
Research source}