How To Make Your Own Backyard Bubble Solution

You may think the only thing required for summer bubble fun is buying a few bottles and small plastic wands at the drugstore. While these certainly work, there’s a whole world of bubble recipes that can create longer lasting, bigger, and better bubbles–and often require ingredients you already have in your home. These sturdier formulas can even allow you to DIY wands out of string for truly giant bubbles that will even impress jaded adults.

The recipes below are all ratios, simply require a quick mix of the ingredients they contain. Many list specific brands of dishwashing soap, as different ones have different “bubble making properties.” If you’ve never purchased glycerin before, check your local drugstore or pharmacy.

Shallow baking pans work great for larger bubble wands while muffin cups hold small amounts for those who are more likely to spill. Try different recipes for different bubbles and don’t forget to have fun! Our own personal favorite is the one listed up top, although there are a few in this list we’ve yet to try! Do you have a trusted recipe for bubbles? Let us know in the comments below!

1. Exploratorium Bubble Formula: 2/3 cup Dawn dishwashing soap, 1 gallon water, 2 to 3 tablespoons of glycerin
   
2. Exploratorium’s Long-Lasting Bubble Formula: 1/3 cup store-bought bubble solution, 1/3 cup water, 1/3 cup glycerine
   
3. The Easiest Homemade Bubbles: 4 cups warm water, 1/2 cup sugar, 1/2 cup blue Dawn dish soap
   
4. Karo Syrup’s Recipe: 6 cups water, 1 cup Karo syrup, 2 cups clear dishwashing liquid
   
5. Real Housemoms’ Giant Bubble Recipe: 1 cup Dawn Ultra dish soap, 1/4 cup corn starch, 1 tablespoon baking powder, 1 teaspoon guar gum, 1 teaspoon rubbing alcohol, 1 teaspoon glycerin, 3 quarts very hot water