The best homemade recipe for bubbles with glycerin for loads of cheap, wholesome fun this Summer! This super easy bubble solution is made with glycerin for strong, hard-to-pop bubbles.
Blowing bubbles is one of my kids’ favorite summer activities. It’s something several children can enjoy together, it’s inexpensive, and it’s endlessly entertaining. Homemade bubble solution is simple to make, so you don’t need to run to the store every time the bottle runs out.
You may have tried other DIY bubble recipes and found they produced flimsy bubbles that popped immediately. Many recipes call for sugar, corn syrup, baking powder, cornstarch, or different brands of dish soap. The key to stronger, longer-lasting bubbles is glycerin.
Glycerin strengthens bubbles by holding moisture in the film, slowing evaporation and helping bubbles last longer.
This recipe is quick and uses only three ingredients: dish soap, glycerin, and water. It makes a half-gallon of solution—perfect for giant wands, bubble machines, or multiple small jars for individual kids. If you like making things from scratch, glycerin is a useful item to keep on hand for other DIYs as well.
What you need to make bubbles with glycerin
Ingredients
- Distilled water – Best for storing the solution, as distilled water reduces the risk of bacterial growth that can occur in tap water.
- Dish soap – A concentrated dish soap like Dawn or a similar brand works well. The surfactants in dish soap form the bubble film.
- Vegetable glycerin – Glycerin (sometimes labeled as glycerol) attracts and holds water. It keeps bubble films from drying out quickly, helping bubbles become stronger and longer lasting.
Supplies
- Half-gallon jar or container with a lid – Store the batch in a sealed container. Large pickle jars or repurposed food containers work well.
- Bubble wand – Buy a wand or make one yourself from pipe cleaners, rope, or dowels to create different bubble sizes.
- Bubble machine (optional) – Useful for continuous bubbles without repeated dipping and dripping.
How to make this recipe for bubbles with glycerin
Mix: Combine the distilled water, dish soap, and glycerin in your container. Stir slowly and gently to avoid creating foam—do not whisk or shake. A gentle swirling motion with a spoon or by hand will blend the ingredients while keeping the solution clear of foam.
Tips for success
To store: Keep the homemade bubble solution in a sealed container with a lid. Stored properly, it can last up to six months. Stir gently before each use if the solution has separated.
To use: Pour the solution into a shallow tray for large rings or a narrow jar for standard wands. Dip the wand and slowly pull it out; move the wand gently through the air or blow to form bubbles.
Substitutions: If you don’t have glycerin available, white corn syrup can be used as an alternative. It won’t perform exactly the same as glycerin but will help the bubbles last longer than soap and water alone.
Why you’ll like this recipe for bubbles with glycerin
- Very economical—a half-gallon batch costs only a few dollars to make.
- Only three simple ingredients: distilled water, dish soap, and glycerin.
- Quick to prepare—mix in a few minutes and the solution is ready to use immediately.
- No lengthy resting period required; ready for instant outdoor play.
- Produces large, durable bubbles that last longer in the air.
FAQ about this recipe for bubbles with glycerin
How do you make homemade bubbles that last longer?
Glycerin slows evaporation of the water in the bubble film, preventing the surface from drying and popping. Adding glycerin to the solution significantly increases bubble lifespan and resilience.
What is glycerin?
Glycerin, or glycerol, is a colorless, odorless liquid commonly used in cosmetics, food products, and pharmaceuticals. It’s often derived from plant oils and helps retain moisture.
Why does glycerin make homemade bubbles stronger?
Glycerin attracts and holds water, which keeps the thin bubble film from drying out. Slowing evaporation reduces brittleness and lowers the chance the bubble will pop quickly.
Can I substitute glycerin with other ingredients?
Corn syrup is a common substitute that gives similar, though slightly different, results. Glycerin remains the preferred additive for the longest-lasting bubbles.
How should I store the bubble solution?
Store in a sealed container in a cool, dry spot away from direct sunlight. If separation occurs, gently stir before use. Proper storage preserves the solution for several months.
Can you add food coloring to bubble solution?
Yes—add up to ten drops of food coloring to the solution for visually fun bubbles. Keep in mind colored bubbles may tint hands or surfaces slightly, so use with care.
How to make an easy bubble wand
Supplies
- 1 pipe cleaner
- 10–12 pony beads
Instructions
- Bend a pipe cleaner in half and shape the middle into a 3-inch circle.
- Twist a couple times below the circle to secure it.
- String 10–12 pony beads on both sides below the circle for a handle and decoration.
- Bend the ends back into the beads to finish the wand.
How to make a DIY giant bubble wand
Supplies
- Two wooden dowels (3/8″ thick, about 18″ long)
- Cotton rope: one 5-foot piece and one 3-foot piece
- Two screw eyes
Instructions
- Screw a screw eye into one end of each dowel.
- Tie one end of the 5-foot rope to each screw eye so it forms a loop between the dowels.
- Tie the 3-foot rope to the screw eyes to create a handle or secondary loop that helps form the bubble film.
More DIY ideas for summertime
- Healthy fudgesicles
- All natural DIY sunscreen
- Homemade anti-itch cream
- DIY essential oil insect repellent
- Fruit and yogurt swirl popsicles
Pin these steps to try later. Share your creations on social media and tag your photos to show off your giant, long-lasting bubbles!
Recipe For Bubbles With Glycerin
Easy, affordable homemade bubble solution made with glycerin for stronger, longer-lasting bubbles.
Ingredients
- 6 cups distilled water
- 1 1/2 cups dish soap
- 1/3 cup vegetable glycerin
Instructions
- Gently mix the water, dish soap, and glycerin together without whisking to avoid foam. Stir slowly until combined.
Notes
To store: Keep in a sealed container up to six months. Stir gently before use.
To use: Pour into a shallow tray for giant bubbles or a jar for smaller wands. Dip and blow.
Substitutions: White corn syrup can substitute for glycerin if needed.