DIY Lava Lamp - So Fun For Kids of All Ages!

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If you’re looking for a fun and easy DIY or STEAM activity for kids, this DIY lava lamp is perfect for all ages!

DIY Lava Lamp Activity for Kids

If you’re searching for an engaging but EASY activity for your kids, this DIY lava lamp is just the ticket! This homemade craft is perfect for kids of all ages to enjoy with minimal set up from mom. Plus, it uses just a few supplies that you probably already have on hand.

This is a great science-focused activity to beat school break boredom, save for a rainy or snowy day, or just break out first thing in the morning to start your day off on a fun and creative note.

Here’s how to make this fun DIY lava lamp:

Homemade Lava Lamp supplies:

All you need to create your own lamp is:

Empty water bottles (use whatever you have on hand – I’m using these)
Vegetable oil
Food coloring
Water
Alka-Seltzer tablets

How to make a DIY Lava Lamp for kids

Start by filling your empty water bottle about 2/3 full with vegetable oil.

Next, mix water with a few drops of food coloring (about 5-7 drops or until the water is totally colored).

Fill the bottle the rest of the way with the colored water, leaving just a little space on top. The water will not mix with the oil so even in the same bottle they’re separate – a cool science lesson!

Break one Alka-Seltzer tablet into four pieces. Drop the pieces in one and a time and watch the magic happen! (Note: don’t add the pieces too quickly or your mixture might bubble over.)

You can screw the lid on the bottle and turn it upside down to re-activate. Be careful not to shake the bottle as it will make the reaction a little less intense. You can keep your DIY lava lamp around and repeat the fun over and over – just add more Alka-Seltzer to see the reaction again.

Tips / Substitutions

You can also add some lightweight, fine glitter for a little extra magic in your bottle!
If you don’t have vegetable oil, you can substitute mineral oil or baby oil.
No water bottle? Use any tall, clear container instead like a vase or mason jar.
If you don’t have Alka-Seltzer on hand, you can create a similar reaction using baking soda and vinegar. Add your oil in step 1, and then add vinegar to the bottle (about 2″ worth). Then, add food coloring directly to the bottle. Finally, mix 1 tablespoon baking soda with 1/2 cup water in a separate bowl. Add this mixture to the bottle and watch the bubbles start!