If you’re looking for a creative, easy, and wildly fun sensory activity that only takes five minutes to whip up, this cloud dough recipe is about to be your go-to. Made with just three simple ingredients lotion or conditioner, cornstarch, and food coloring this soft, squishy dough is perfect for little hands and big imaginations. Whether you’re planning a rainy-day craft or need a quick boredom buster, cloud dough delivers hours of mess-free fun.
This article covers everything from how to make cloud dough with or without conditioner, the best ways to customize it, tips to store it for weeks, and how to troubleshoot texture issues on the fly. Plus, we’ll share tested variations and pro tips from a real mom who knows the power of play. Ready to dive in? Let’s start with the story behind the magic.
Where Cloud Dough Begins in My House
I’m Megan. I’m 43, a mom of two incredible teenagers, and I’ve called Arizona home my whole life. These days, we live in a cozy house on the outskirts of Prescott, where the kitchen is always warm, the back door is usually open, and someone’s always asking, “What smells so good?”
A few years ago, I was hosting a backyard playdate and realized I had forgotten to prep activities. With two toddlers and a preschooler about to explode with energy, I remembered a simple cloud dough recipe I’d seen scribbled in a mom’s group. Conditioner, cornstarch, and food coloring. That’s it. I handed each kid a mixing bowl, a wooden spoon, and a squirt of unscented lotion.
Within minutes, I had calm, focused kids elbow-deep in soft, fluffy dough. And more importantly? They were laughing. It wasn’t just an activity; it was magic. Since then, this recipe has become a staple in our home, right alongside rainy-day fort building and giant bubbles.
Whether you’re a teacher, a parent, or just someone who needs a break from screens, this cloud dough recipe is a sensory-friendly, gluten-free alternative to traditional playdough and it’s just as fun for adults. I’ve even caught my teens sneaking a squeeze of it between study sessions.
Why You’ll Love This Cloud Dough Recipe
Only 3 Ingredients (and No Cooking!)
There’s no boiling, no waiting, and no weird ingredients to hunt down. This easy cloud dough recipe uses everyday pantry or bathroom staples plus it’s safe for most kids with sensitivities (especially if you use unscented lotion). You can even skip food coloring for a white dough, or experiment with natural dyes.
Soft, Squishy, Long-Lasting Fun
The texture of this dough is something else. It’s softer than classic playdough and holds shapes surprisingly well. It’s also forgiving add more conditioner if it dries out, or more cornstarch if it’s sticky. The best part? It keeps for weeks in an airtight container. Just like our favorite playdough without cream of tartar, this cloud dough is low-maintenance, high-reward fun.
Ingredients To Make This Cloud Dough Recipe
Making cloud dough at home is as simple as grabbing a few things from your bathroom and pantry. That’s the beauty of this cloud dough recipe with conditioner you don’t need to buy anything fancy. And if you’re out of conditioner? No problem. There are versions you can make with lotion, flour, or even baby oil. But here’s the classic 3-ingredient setup that works every time.
- ½ cup (120ml) white-colored lotion or hair conditioner
Try to use unscented products if your child is sensitive to smells. We love Jergens® Ultra Care Fragrance Free or any basic store-brand conditioner. - 1 to 1¼ cups (140–175g) cornstarch
This creates the silky texture that makes cloud dough so unique. You can also try arrowroot powder or tapioca starch if you’re experimenting. - A few drops of food coloring (optional)
Use liquid or gel food coloring depending on what you have. It’s totally optional, but let’s face it color makes everything more fun.
You can easily double or triple this easy cloud dough recipe for group playdates or make multiple colors at once. Just remember: the ratio is roughly 1 part lotion or conditioner to 2 parts cornstarch.
Want to explore other fun projects? Try pairing this with our colorful rock candy recipe for a double activity day your kids will remember.
Equipment Needed
One of the best parts of this cloud dough recipe without cornstarch (yes, you can use flour instead!) is that you don’t need any special tools. Here’s all you need:
- Mixing bowl
Go big! Cornstarch is fluffy and tends to puff out. - Spoon or spatula
You’ll use this at first to mix, but your hands will take over soon. - Measuring cups
For accurate ratios but don’t stress. This is very forgiving. - Airtight container or zip-top bag
Store your dough here between play sessions. It keeps soft for weeks. - Plastic mat or tray (optional)
Makes cleanup easier, especially with younger kids.
You can also grab cookie cutters, rolling pins, or toy molds to level up the fun. Kids love using mini rolling pins and stamps like they do with sugar cookies. Just keep it simple and fun!
How To Make Cloud Dough Recipe Step-by-Step
You won’t believe how quick this comes together. This cloud dough recipe with flour or conditioner is ridiculously easy. Just a bowl, a few ingredients, and a couple of giggles later you’ve got hours of sensory fun ready to go.
Start with the Base
Grab a medium to large mixing bowl. Add ½ cup of conditioner or lotion (unscented is best if your little ones are sensitive). If you want to tint your dough, stir in a few drops of food coloring now. Mix well with a spoon so the color is evenly blended. It’ll be darker than your final result cornstarch lightens it.
Add the Magic Powder
Pour in 1 cup of cornstarch and stir gently. As it thickens, you’ll switch from spoon to hands it gets fun fast. Knead the mixture until soft, pliable, and slightly stretchy. If it’s sticky, add more cornstarch one tablespoon at a time. Too dry? Squeeze in a bit more conditioner or lotion.
Keep kneading until it feels like soft clay squishy but not wet. Kids love helping at this stage, so don’t be afraid to let their hands dive in.
Want to try something different next time? Swap the conditioner for baby lotion or experiment with fizzy sensory dough by adding a little baking soda and vinegar later on. Just keep ratios consistent for the best texture.
Ways to Serve with Cloud Dough Recipe
Even though this isn’t a food recipe, cloud dough deserves a “serving” section because the way you present it makes all the difference in playtime success.
Create Individual Play Stations
Use cookie sheets or plastic trays to give each child their own workspace. Add cookie cutters, stamps, or plastic forks and let their creativity run wild. This setup makes cleanup easy and cuts down on the mess factor.
You can even pair this with a themed snack like homemade sweet potato pies if you’re hosting a playdate. The mix of sensory and edible activities? Parent win.
Themed Play Ideas
Turn cloud dough recipe time into a sensory adventure:
- Add glitter for a “unicorn dough” experience.
- Use brown food coloring and cinnamon for a “gingerbread cloud dough recipe” twist.
- Hide small toys inside the dough for a mini excavation game.
- Make “Grinch dough” for the holidays green, scented, and a little mischievous.
This kind of hands-on play isn’t just fun it boosts fine motor skills, creativity, and focus. Bonus: it’s screen-free. And let’s face it, we all need more of that.
Variations and Substitutions
The beauty of this cloud dough recipe is how flexible it is. Whether you’re working around allergies, out of ingredients, or just want to switch things up for the holidays, there’s a variation that works.
Cloud Dough Recipe Without Conditioner
No conditioner? No problem. Swap it with:
- White hand lotion — creates a smooth, fluffy dough
- Baby lotion — perfect for sensitive skin
- Coconut oil (semi-solid) — gives a lovely scent and natural texture
Just keep the ratio: 1 part lotion/oil to 2 parts cornstarch. You’ll still get that soft, pliable dough that’s easy to mold and fun to squish.
We’ve even tried making a cloud dough recipe with flour and oil just be aware it’s messier and won’t feel as silky.
Fun Add-Ins and Themes
Get creative! Cloud dough is a blank canvas:
- Add glitter for sparkle
- Use cocoa powder for a chocolate-scented sensory experience
- Drop in a touch of vanilla or peppermint extract for seasonal smells
- Add small toys like mini dinos or bugs for sensory discovery
For edible options, try a homemade edible cloud dough recipe using oat flour and coconut oil but keep it simple and safe if little ones are likely to taste it.
Pro Tips for Cloud Dough Recipe Success
Start Small and Adjust Slowly
You don’t need exact measurements just the 1:2 ratio as your base. Add small amounts of lotion or cornstarch until the dough feels right. Trust your hands; they’ll know when it’s ready.
Watch the Mess Factor
Cornstarch fluffs everywhere. Use a tray, old tablecloth, or a baking mat to keep cleanup easy. Keep wipes nearby, and remind kids not to clap their hands while holding dough (unless you like white clouds in your kitchen).
Let Kids Help
From squeezing the conditioner to mixing in the colors, this project is 100% kid-friendly. It’s a fun, safe way to introduce simple ratios and cause-and-effect thinking.
Pro Tip: Cloud dough pairs well with a calm afternoon and a snack like our blueberry compote on toast. Win-win.
How to Store This Cloud Dough Recipe
Storing your dough is super simple and it actually improves with time.
Airtight is Key
After playtime, wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap, then store it in a sealed container or zip-top bag. Keep it in a cool, dry spot like a pantry or craft drawer. This keeps it soft for several weeks.
Revive with a Squirt
If your dough starts to dry out, just add a squirt of lotion or conditioner and knead it back to life. It’ll bounce right back with a little TLC.
Important: Since this is a non-edible dough, it’s not safe for toddlers under 3 unless they’re supervised. Always store it out of reach from curious mouths.
Planning a party or group playtime? Make a few batches in different colors and label each bag for reuse. You’ll thank yourself later.
Cloud Dough Recipe (3 Ingredients, No Cooking!)
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large bowl, add ½ cup of white lotion or conditioner. If coloring, stir in a few drops of food coloring and mix well.
- Add 1 cup of cornstarch and stir gently until it thickens. Switch to using hands to knead the mixture.
- Adjust the texture: add more cornstarch if sticky, or more conditioner if dry. Knead until soft and pliable.
- Play immediately or store in an airtight container or bag to keep it soft for several weeks.
Notes
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 weeks.
- Add more cornstarch if it’s sticky or more conditioner if too dry.
- Try glitter, natural scents, or themed add-ins like mini toys for variation.
- Great for kids 3+, teens, and even adults seeking a stress-relieving sensory activity.
Tried this recipe?
Let us know how it was!Conclusion: Why This Cloud Dough Recipe Stands Out
There’s something truly special about this cloud dough recipe. Maybe it’s the simplicity just three ingredients and five minutes. Maybe it’s the texture soft, pliable, and soothing to squeeze. Or maybe it’s the look on your child’s face when they dig their little hands into a colorful, squishy ball of sensory goodness.
As a mom who’s made more batches than I can count, I can say this: cloud dough isn’t just play it’s presence. It’s quiet time. It’s connection. And it’s something you can pull together with stuff you already have. Whether you’re crafting a rainbow of dough with your toddler or calming your sensory-seeking teen, this recipe is a keeper.
Pair it with a cozy afternoon, or sneak it into a playdate with themed goodies like crab cake eggs benedict for the grownups. However you use it, cloud dough makes life softer in more ways than one.
LET’S STAY CONNECTED! FOLLOW ME ON:
Tried this recipe? I’d be thrilled to see your take on it! Snap a pic and tag me @Sweftyrecipes so I can share your delicious creations with our foodie community.
→ FACEBOOK | INSTAGRAM | PINTEREST
Recipe Help & FAQs
What are the ingredients to make cloud dough?
All you need is:
+ ½ cup white lotion or conditioner
+ 1 to 1¼ cups cornstarch
+ A few drops of food coloring (optional)
Stick to a 1:2 ratio of conditioner to cornstarch for the perfect texture.
How to make moon dough with 2 ingredients?
Moon dough is very similar to cloud dough, but it’s usually made with:
+ 2 cups flour
+ ½ cup vegetable oil
The result is a grainier, slightly more crumbly texture. Cloud dough is softer and stretchier, thanks to the conditioner or lotion.
Is cloud dough the same as moon dough?
Not exactly. Cloud dough is made with cornstarch and conditioner or lotion, resulting in a soft, stretchy, silky texture. Moon dough uses flour and oil, giving it a drier, sand-like consistency. Both are fun sensory experiences but feel very different to the touch.
Can I make cloud dough with flour and conditioner?
Yes, you can. A cloud dough recipe with flour will work similarly, but it’ll feel heavier and less airy. Use:
+ ½ cup conditioner
+ 1 cup all-purpose flour
Add more flour as needed. It’s a great alternative if you’re out of cornstarch!