Super Calming DIY Oil and Water Sensory Bottle for Toddlers
Learn how to make a super easy oil and water sensory bottle for your little ones! This uses baby oil, glitter, and water and creates the perfect calming bottle for toddlers!
As parents and caregivers, we always strive to provide our children with toys and activities that are both fun and educational.
One such tool that has gained popularity in recent years are sensory bottles.
This captivating and calming tool is not only a fun sensory experience for kids, but it also has therapeutic benefits that can help soothe anxiety and promote relaxation.
While you can make sensory bottles with a variety of tools and ingredients, this recipe is for an oil and water bottle that your toddlers will find so relaxing and calming!
What is an Oil and Water Sensory Bottle?
An Oil and Water Sensory Bottle, also known as a calm-down bottle, is a clear plastic bottle filled with water, oil, and various other materials, such as glitter, beads, or small toys.
The ingredients in the bottle create a mesmerizing visual effect when shaken, and as the oil and water separate, they produce a calming and relaxing effect.
The sensory bottle is also an excellent tool for promoting focus and attention in children, making it a popular choice for classrooms and therapy sessions.
We love using our sensory bottles with baby oil and glitter for a calm down tool when our toddlers are crying and upset, as well as a mindfulness tool for our bedtime routine.
Benefits of Using an Oil and Water Sensory Bottle
Here are just a few of the incredible benefits of sensory bottles for toddlers.
Promotes Calming and Relaxation
The mesmerizing effect of the oil and water sensory bottle is a great way to calm children who may be feeling anxious or overwhelmed.
By watching the materials in the bottle settle and separate, children can focus on their breathing and achieve a sense of relaxation and calmness.
It’s great as a bedtime calm down tool, as well as when they are dealing with big feelings.
Sensory bottles are even super calming for me as an adult!
Helps Develop Sensory Awareness
The oil and water sensory bottle is an excellent tool for sensory play and can help children develop their senses and awareness of the world around them.
The different materials in the bottle provide a range of textures and colors, stimulating the senses and promoting exploration and curiosity.
Some sensory bottles, like the rice one, you can dump out in your sensory table or container and your kids can play with, while others are meant to stay in the jar.
Improves Focus and Attention
The visual effect of the oil and water sensory bottle can help children improve their focus and attention.
By watching the materials settle and separate, children can develop their ability to concentrate and pay attention to one thing at a time.
How to Make an Oil and Water Sensory Bottle
Making an oil and water sensory bottle is easy and requires only a few materials. I made this one to look like a galaxy sensory bottle with a variety of blue colors!
Here’s how to make one for your toddler!
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Materials for Baby Oil Sensory Bottle
- 1 large VOSS water bottle
- Baby oil
- Food coloring
- Silver star confetti
- Sequins in blue tones
- E6000 glue
How to Make a Sensory Bottle with Oil and Glitter
- Pour 1.5 cups of water into a measuring cup and add 10-15 drops of food coloring. Mix until you have your desired color. I added about 15 drops for a darker blue color.
- Pour into the VOSS bottle.
- Fill the remaining amount of the bottle with baby oil. Next add into about 3 tablespoons of the silver star confetti. (you don’t need to measure exactly, just add the amount you would like)
- Next add 2 bags of the sequins. I added the dark blue and the lighter blue.
- Seal the top of the bottle with either crazy glue or e600 glue and let it sit for about an hour until the glue fully dries.
Oil and Water Sensory Bottle FAQs
Are oil and water sensory bottles safe for young children to use?
Yes, Oil and Water Sensory Bottles are safe for children to use, as long as they are made with non-toxic materials and are supervised by an adult. Make sure to glue the top with a strong glue so your toddler and kids cannot open it up.
Can I customize the contents of the sensory bottle?
Absolutely! You can customize the contents of the sensory bottle to include whatever materials you like, such as different colors of glitter, beads, or even small toys.
How long do the bottles last?
The length of time that the sensory bottles last depends on the materials used and the frequency of use. With proper care, the bottles can last for a really long time!
Can sensory bottles be used as a calming tool for adults?
Yes, sensory bottles can be a helpful tool for adults as well, especially for those who may experience anxiety or stress. The calming effect of the bottle can help promote relaxation and mindfulness. I use my child’s calming sensory bottle all the time!
How can I incorporate sensory bottles into my child’s routine?
Sensory bottles can be incorporated into a child’s routine in a variety of ways, such as using them as a calming tool before bed or during times of stress, or as a fun activity during playtime or in the classroom. Use them in your bedtime or morning routine.
Oil and Water Galaxy Sensory Bottle
This bottle is so calming and relaxing for babies, toddlers, and even adults! It uses baby oil and water and is so easy to make.
Materials
- 1 large VOSS water bottle
- Baby oil
- Food coloring
- Silver star confetti
- Sequins in blue tones
- E6000 glue
Instructions
- Pour 1.5 cups of water into a measuring cup and add 10-15 drops of food coloring. Mix until you have your desired color. I added about 15 drops for a darker blue color.
- Pour into the VOSS bottle.
- Fill the remaining amount of the bottle with baby oil. Next add into about 3 tablespoons of the silver star confetti. (you don’t need to measure exactly, just add the amount you would like)
- Next add 2 bags of the sequins. I added the dark blue and the lighter blue.
- Seal the top of the bottle with either crazy glue or e600 glue and let it sit for about an hour until the glue fully dries.
Baby Oil and Water Sensory Bottle Wrap-Up
The oil and water sensory bottle is a simple but effective tool for promoting relaxation, focus, and sensory development in children.
By making one at home, parents and caregivers can provide their children with a fun and engaging activity that has therapeutic benefits.
Whether used at home or in a classroom or therapy session, the oil and water sensory bottle is a must-try tool for any parent or caregiver.
Check out these other sensory bottles DIY that you can make for your toddlers, including an unicorn sensory bottle, under the sea sensory jar, and a 4th of July one with hair gel!
