Cloud Dough: The Softest, Fluffiest DIY Dough Ever – Sensory Fun in Minutes!

Need a quick, affordable, and magical sensory play recipe for kids? This Cloud Dough recipe is your answer! Made with only two simple ingredients — cornstarch and conditioner — this dough feels like soft clouds in your hands. It’s stretchy, fluffy, calming, and perfect for sensory bins, creative play, or calming down time.

It’s non-toxic, easy to customise with colours, scents, or glitter, and can be ready in under 10 minutes!

Ingredients (Makes 1 Large Batch)

Core Cloud Dough Ingredients:

• 2 cups (250 g) cornstarch (cornflour)
• 1 cup (250 ml) conditioner (white, inexpensive brands work best — use scented for extra fun)

Optional Add-ins:

• A few drops of food colouring or gel dye
• ½ tsp essential oils (lavender, vanilla, or lemon for soothing aroma)
• 1 tbsp glitter, mini beads, or sprinkles for texture and visual fun

Preparation:

1: Prepare Your Mixing Space

1. Lay down a mat, tray, or table covering — Cloud Dough is easy to clean but can get messy during mixing!
2. Have a large mixing bowl ready.

2: Combine the Ingredients

1. Pour 2 cups cornstarch into the bowl.
2. Gradually add 1 cup conditioner to the cornstarch.
3. Mix with a spoon at first, then use your hands to knead the dough together.

3: Knead Until Soft & Fluffy

1. Continue kneading for about 3–5 minutes.
2. The dough will feel crumbly at first — keep working it until it transforms into a smooth, pliable texture.
3. If the dough is too dry, add a small amount of conditioner (1 tbsp at a time).
4. If too sticky, add extra cornstarch.

4: Add Colour & Scent (Optional)

1. If desired, divide the dough into sections for multiple colours.
2. Add a few drops of food colouring to each section and knead until evenly coloured.
3. Add a few drops of essential oil for a calming, sensory scent.

5: Add Fun Textures (Optional)

1. Mix in glitter, mini beads, or sprinkles for extra visual stimulation and fun texture.
2. Knead gently to distribute throughout.

Variations:

• Rainbow Cloud Dough: Create multiple coloured batches and layer or mix them together for rainbow swirls.
• Festive Cloud Dough: Use holiday-themed colours (red & green for Christmas, pastels for Easter) and matching sprinkles.
• Edible-Safe Cloud Dough: Use plain flour and vegetable oil if younger kids are likely to taste the dough (not for eating, but safer if tasted).

Storage:

• Store Cloud Dough in an airtight container or ziplock bag.
• Keeps fresh for up to 2 weeks.
• If dough starts to dry, revive with a touch more conditioner.
• Store in a cool place — avoid moisture or heat.

Best Uses for Cloud Dough:

• Sensory play bins and activities
• Calm-down corner material
• Party favour or DIY gift
• Creative play (making shapes, pretend cooking, squishing)
• Stress-relief dough for adults & kids alike!

Tips for Success:

1. Use white conditioner for vibrant colouring results.
2. Always start with less conditioner — you can always add more!
3. Kneading well makes the dough super soft and fluffy.
4. Glitter adds sparkle but supervise small children to avoid ingestion.
5. For sensory-sensitive children, add calming essential oils like lavender.

⏱️ Time Overview:

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Knead Time: 3–5 minutes
• Total Time: 10 minutes

🧾 Sensory Benefits of Cloud Dough:

• Enhances fine motor skills
• Encourages creativity and imaginary play
• Provides calming, tactile stimulation
• Great for stress relief and mindfulness
• Ideal for sensory-sensitive children or relaxation activities

FAQs:

Q: Is Cloud Dough safe for toddlers?

A: Yes, when supervised. If taste-safe dough is required, use flour and oil instead of conditioner.

Q: Can I use other scents?

A: Absolutely! Try vanilla, peppermint, lemon, or fruity essential oils.

Q: Can I store Cloud Dough long term?

A: Best used within 1–2 weeks for freshness. Revive with extra conditioner if it begins to dry.

Q: Does it stain hands?

A: No, if using gel food colouring in small amounts and kneading thoroughly.

Q: Can I use shampoo instead of conditioner?

A: Yes, some DIYers use shampoo — but conditioner provides a softer, fluffier result.

Conclusion:

This DIY Cloud Dough recipe is the perfect blend of simplicity, creativity, and sensory fun. Whether you’re looking for a calming activity, sensory play material, or a rainy-day boredom buster, Cloud Dough will become a firm favourite in your home.

It’s budget-friendly, customisable, and provides endless opportunities for creative play — plus, kids LOVE the soft, fluffy texture!

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