If you want a quick, inexpensive, and entertaining activity for little ones, try this DIY Bath Paint for Kids. It comes together in about five minutes using three common household ingredients.
DIY Bath Paint For Kids
Children love sensory play and creating with color, and this bath paint is perfect for that. It’s easy to make, non-toxic when made with gentle products, and washes away with a damp cloth or during bath time. You don’t need elaborate supplies—just shampoo, cornstarch, and food coloring to get started.
I’ve been testing simple, budget-friendly activities to keep my toddler entertained without extra trips to the store. This bath paint recipe used what we had on hand, and my daughter had a blast painting the tub and splashing while I supervised.
Ingredients for Kid’s Bath Paint DIY
The base is simply baby or kids’ shampoo combined with cornstarch. I prefer a lightly scented baby wash, but you can use whichever gentle shampoo you already have. The cornstarch gives the mixture body so it behaves more like paint than plain soap.
You’ll also need food coloring to create bright shades. Use just a few drops—one or two per 1/2 cup of paint—to get vivid colors without risk of heavy staining. If you prefer natural options, plant-based food coloring works well too.
How to Make Homemade Bath Paint
- Combine equal parts baby shampoo and cornstarch in a bowl and stir until smooth and lump-free.
- Separate the mixture into small containers, then add a few drops of food coloring to each and stir until evenly colored.
- Use immediately for bath time play, or store sealed for later use.
Will this bath paint stain?
When colored lightly (one to two drops per small jar), this paint usually rinses clean from skin and bathtub surfaces. However, stronger concentrations or prolonged contact with fabrics may increase the chance of staining. Use old clothing or let kids paint while actually in the tub for easiest cleanup.
Does it clean off easily?
Yes. The mixture can form a slightly tacky layer once painted, but a warm, damp cloth or a quick rinse removes it easily. Because the recipe uses shampoo, it helps break down and wash away during normal bathing or with soap and water.
How to Store DIY Bath Paint
Store leftover paint in airtight plastic or glass containers with lids to prevent drying. Small plastic jars work well because they won’t break if dropped and seal tightly. Properly stored in the refrigerator or a cool cabinet, the paint should keep for up to one month—discard if it develops an off smell or mold.
This activity is great because it’s simple to prepare and doesn’t require artistic experience—kids can use paint brushes or their fingers. It also makes a fun party activity or favor for children’s gatherings. My daughter loved exploring color and texture with this paint, and cleanup was straightforward.
Try Another Fun DIY
- DIY Holiday Crock Pot Potpourri – a simple way to fill your home with warm seasonal scents.
- Magic Reindeer Food Recipe & Poem – a festive activity for kids around the holidays.
- Dried Orange Slices – easy to make in the oven for garlands or gift tags.
- Sugar Cookie Body Scrub – a three-ingredient scrub that smells amazing.
Kids Bath Paint
Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Rubber spatula
- Measuring cups
- Small containers with lids
- Paint brushes or sponges
Ingredients
- 1 cup baby shampoo
- 1 cup cornstarch
- Food coloring (a few drops per color)
Instructions
- Combine the baby shampoo and cornstarch in a medium bowl and whisk until smooth and fully combined.
- Divide the base into small jars or cups. Add a few drops of food coloring to each container and stir until the color is uniform.
- Use the paint immediately in the tub or store leftovers in airtight containers for up to one month in a cool place.
Notes
- If you prefer a thinner consistency, reduce the cornstarch by 1/4 cup and add 1 tablespoon of water until you reach the desired texture.