Making glow-in-the-dark bubbles is a fun and eye-catching activity for kids and adults alike—great for nighttime parties, glow events, or just some cool backyard science. Here’s how you can make them safely and effectively.
🌟 How to Make Glow-in-the-Dark Bubbles
Note: There are two main methods:
- UV-reactive bubbles (safer, glows under blacklight)
- Phosphorescent/glow paint bubbles (glows in the dark, but less bright and can be messier)
✅ Method 1: UV-Reactive (Blacklight) Bubbles — Best & Safest
You’ll need:
- 1 cup bubble solution (store-bought or homemade — see below)
- 1–2 highlighters (yellow, green, or pink work best)
- UV blacklight flashlight or lamp
- Optional: Bubble wands or straws
Instructions:
- Extract the glowing liquid:
- Carefully crack open a highlighter and remove the ink-soaked felt tube inside.
- Soak the tube in a small amount of warm water (1/4 cup) for 10–15 minutes until the color leaches out.
- Mix with bubbles:
- Add the glowing water to 3/4 cup of bubble solution.
- Stir gently to combine.
- Glow time:
- Turn off the lights, turn on the blacklight, and blow bubbles!
- The bubbles will glow under UV light.
🧪 Why this works: Highlighter fluid contains fluorescent compounds that glow under UV light. It’s non-toxic but not edible—so still use caution and avoid contact with eyes or mouth.
⚠️ Method 2: Phosphorescent Glow Paint Bubbles — Glows in the Dark (Dimmer)
You’ll need:
- Non-toxic glow-in-the-dark paint or pigment powder (look for “phosphorescent” and “non-toxic”)
- 1 cup bubble solution
- Bubble wands
Instructions:
- Mix 1–2 teaspoons of glow-in-the-dark paint into the bubble solution.
- Let the solution “charge” under strong light for 15–30 minutes.
- Blow bubbles in a dark area. The bubbles may have a faint glow after being exposed to light.
⚠️ Note: These bubbles don’t glow very brightly and may be messy. Not ideal for younger kids or indoor use.
🫧 Easy Homemade Bubble Solution
Mix together:
- 1 cup water
- 2 tbsp dish soap (like Dawn)
- 1 tbsp glycerin or corn syrup (for longer-lasting bubbles)
Let sit for an hour or more for best results.
✅ Safety Tips
- Avoid contact with eyes and mouth.
- Always supervise young children.
- Use outdoors or in well-ventilated areas to avoid staining.