Slime vs. Putty: What's the Difference?
Edited by Sumera Saeed || By Sawaira Riaz || Updated on November 11, 2023
Slime is a gooey, viscous substance often made for play, while putty is a firmer, moldable material used for various purposes, including sealing and play.
Key Differences
Slime is a playful, often colorful substance that is typically made with ingredients like glue, water, and borax. Putty, on the other hand, is a pliable material made of various compounds, originally designed for sealing and filling gaps.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 10, 2023
The texture of slime is more fluid and stretchy, making it popular for sensory play. In contrast, putty has a denser consistency, allowing it to be molded and even bounced.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 10, 2023
While both slime and putty can be made at home or purchased, slime has recently seen a surge in DIY recipes, especially among kids and teens. Putty, however, is more traditionally associated with construction and repair tasks.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 10, 2023
Slime often has add-ins such as glitter, beads, and even scents for enhanced tactile and sensory experiences. Putty may have variants like magnetic or heat-sensitive putty but is generally less decorative than slime.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 10, 2023
Over time, slime may lose its consistency faster and become runny or sticky. Putty, being firmer, tends to retain its texture longer and is less susceptible to drying out.
Janet White
Nov 10, 2023
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Comparison Chart
Popularity
Trendy among kids and teens for DIY
More traditional, linked with construction and repair
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 10, 2023
Durability
Loses consistency faster
Retains texture longer, less prone to drying out
Harlon Moss
Nov 10, 2023
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Slime and Putty Definitions
Slime
A viscous liquid or semi-solid often associated with mucus or other sticky substances.
The snail left a trail of slime behind.
Harlon Moss
Oct 09, 2023
Putty
Often made from calcium carbonate, whiting, and linseed oil.
Traditional window putty is made from a blend of linseed oil and whiting.
Harlon Moss
Oct 09, 2023
Slime
A gooey, stretchable substance often used for play.
Kids love making colorful slime during their free time.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 09, 2023
Putty
A material that can be both functional and recreational.
While some use putty for repairs, others find it therapeutic to play with.
Aimie Carlson
Oct 09, 2023
Slime
A material made primarily from glue, water, and borax.
Adding too much borax can change the consistency of the slime.
Sara Rehman
Oct 09, 2023
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Putty
A malleable material often used to seal windows or fill gaps.
He used putty to seal the leak in the pipe.
Janet White
Oct 09, 2023
Slime
A substance that can be messy if not handled properly.
She accidentally spilled slime on the carpet.
Harlon Moss
Oct 09, 2023
Putty
A doughlike cement made by mixing whiting and linseed oil, used to fill holes in woodwork and secure panes of glass.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 07, 2023
Slime
(Biology) A mucous substance secreted by certain animals, such as catfishes and slugs.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 07, 2023
Putty
A yellowish or light brownish gray to grayish yellow or light grayish brown.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 07, 2023
Putty
A form of cement, made from linseed oil and whiting, used to fix panes of glass.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 07, 2023
Slime
Soft, moist earth or clay, having an adhesive quality; viscous mud; any substance of a dirty nature, that is moist, soft, and adhesive; bitumen; mud containing metallic ore, obtained in the preparatory dressing.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 07, 2023
Slime
Any mucilaginous substance; or a mucus-like substance which exudes from the bodies of certain animals, such as snails or slugs.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 07, 2023
Putty
A kind of thick paste or cement compounded of whiting, or soft carbonate of lime, and linseed oil, when applied beaten or kneaded to the consistence of dough, - used in fastening glass in sashes, stopping crevices, and for similar purposes.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 07, 2023
Putty
A kind of gaiter of waterproof cloth wrapped around the leg, used by soldiers, etc.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 07, 2023
Putty
A dough-like mixture of whiting and boiled linseed oil; used especially to patch woodwork or secure panes of glass
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 07, 2023
Putty
A pliable compound that can be molded and shaped.
Children enjoy playing with putty just as much as with clay.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 09, 2023
Putty
A substance with a consistency denser than slime.
This putty is so firm; it feels like dough.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 09, 2023
Slime
Soft, moist earth or clay, having an adhesive quality; viscous mud.
As it [Nilus] ebbs, the seedsmanUpon the slime and ooze scatters his grain.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 07, 2023
Slime
Any mucilaginous substance; any substance of a dirty nature, that is moist, soft, and adhesive.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 07, 2023
Slime
A sensory plaything popular among children.
Slime workshops have become popular birthday party activities.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 09, 2023
FAQs
Can putty be used for play?
Yes, there are playful versions of putty, such as "silly putty," which can be molded and bounced.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 10, 2023
Can slime dry out?
Yes, if left exposed to air for long periods, slime can dry out and lose its stretchy consistency.
Aimie Carlson
Nov 10, 2023
Why is putty used in construction?
Putty is used to seal gaps, fill holes, and secure window panes.
Janet White
Nov 10, 2023
Are there types of putty that change with heat or magnets?
Yes, there are special putties that are heat-sensitive or magnetic.
Aimie Carlson
Nov 10, 2023
Is slime edible?
No, typical slime recipes are not edible and should be kept away from the mouth.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 10, 2023
Why is slime so popular among kids?
Slime offers a sensory and creative experience, making it fun to play with and customize.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 10, 2023
What is slime primarily made of?
Slime is often made from glue, water, and borax or other activators.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 10, 2023
How long can putty last?
When stored properly, putty can last for years without drying out.
Janet White
Nov 10, 2023
Can I add color to slime?
Yes, food coloring, paint, or dye can be added to slime for color.
Sara Rehman
Nov 10, 2023
What should I do if slime gets into clothing or fabric?
It's best to let it dry and then scrape off, or use vinegar and warm water to dissolve and remove it.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 10, 2023
Is slime safe for toddlers?
While non-toxic slime is generally safe, it's crucial to supervise toddlers to ensure they don't ingest or place it in their mouths.
Sara Rehman
Nov 10, 2023
Is putty toxic?
It depends on the type; while many putties are non-toxic, some formulations, especially older ones, might contain harmful ingredients.
Harlon Moss
Nov 10, 2023
Why does slime become hard?
Too much of an activator or extended exposure to air can cause slime to lose its elasticity.
Aimie Carlson
Nov 10, 2023
Are there natural alternatives to traditional putty?
Yes, some putties are made using natural ingredients like clay or beeswax.
Aimie Carlson
Nov 10, 2023
Is putty stretchy like slime?
While putty is malleable, it's generally not as stretchy and fluid as slime.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 10, 2023
Can I repair toys with putty?
Some putties can be used for minor toy repairs, but it's essential to ensure it's appropriate for the material.
Janet White
Nov 10, 2023
What is "silly putty"?
Silly putty is a toy putty that can be stretched, molded, and even used to lift prints from newspapers.
Aimie Carlson
Nov 10, 2023
Do I always need borax for slime?
No, there are borax-free recipes using ingredients like contact lens solution or baking soda.
Janet White
Nov 10, 2023
How do I store slime for longevity?
Store slime in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out.
Harlon Moss
Nov 10, 2023
About Author
Written by
Sawaira RiazSawaira is a dedicated content editor at difference.wiki, where she meticulously refines articles to ensure clarity and accuracy. With a keen eye for detail, she upholds the site's commitment to delivering insightful and precise content.
Edited by
Sumera SaeedSumera is an experienced content writer and editor with a niche in comparative analysis. At Diffeence Wiki, she crafts clear and unbiased comparisons to guide readers in making informed decisions. With a dedication to thorough research and quality, Sumera's work stands out in the digital realm. Off the clock, she enjoys reading and exploring diverse cultures.
