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Magic Milk Science Experiment – Amazing Explosion of Color!

Did you know that it is easy to turn ordinary milk into a rainbow of crazy colors? With only four common kitchen items, kids are thrilled by the color explosion created by the hydrophilic and hydrophobic molecules in our magic ingredient!

Watch our demonstration video, then print out a materials list and instructions to plan for this simple and fun science experiment. Easy to understand explanation of how it works is included below.

JUMP TO SECTION: Instructions | Video Tutorial | How it Works

Supplies Needed

• Milk (Must be either Whole or 2%)
• Food Coloring. The more colors the better
• Shallow Dish or Bowl

Magic Milk Science Lab Kit – Only $5

Use our easy Magic Milk Science Lab Kit to grab your students’ attention without the stress of planning!

It’s everything you need to  make science easy for teachers and fun for students  — using inexpensive materials you probably already have in your storage closet!

Magic Milk Experiment Instructions

Step 1 – Pour some milk into a shallow dish or bowl until the milk covers the bottom.

Step 2 – Add some drops of food coloring on the milk. You can use a variety of colors, just be sure to add 3-4 drops of each color.

Step 3 – Add a drop of dish soap into the center of the milk.

Step 4 – Watch in amazement as the colors dances across the surface of the milk. Do you know what caused the colors to move around in the milk? Find out the answer in the how does this experiment work section below.

Video Tutorial

Detailed Magic Rainbow Milk Science Experiment Step by Step Instructions

How Does the Science Experiment Work

The key to the dancing colors in this experiment is soap! Soap molecules consist of a hydrophilic (“water-loving”) end and a hydrophobic (“water-fearing”) end. Water molecules are polar molecules that can dissolve other polar molecules. Fat (and oil) molecules are nonpolar molecules, so they cannot dissolve in water.

Milk is a mixture of water, fat, vitamins and minerals. When soap is added to the milk, it helps to separate the water and fat in the milk. When soap is mixed in with the fat and water, the hydrophobic end of the soap molecule breaks up the nonpolar fat molecules, and the hydrophilic end of the soap molecule links up with the polar water molecules. Now that the soap is connecting the fat and water, the nonpolar fat molecules can be carried by the polar water molecules.

As the soap molecules connect to the fat molecules, the molecules of the food coloring get pushed around everywhere resulting in an explosion of color! As the majority of soap molecules attach to the fat molecules and the soap spreads throughout the milk, the color explosion will slow and eventually stop. Add more soap and see if there are more fat molecules that haven’t attached to soap – if there are unattached fat molecules still, the color explosion will begin again.

This experiment works best with 2% and whole milk because they contain more fat.

Other Ideas to Try

Try this experiment again using milk with different fat percentages. Try it with skim milk, 1% milk, 2% milk, whole milk, half and half, and cream. Consider even trying evaporated milk and sweetened condensed milk. See how the amount of fat affects the explosion of color!

I hope you enjoyed the experiment as much as we did. Here are some printable instructions:

Magic Rainbow Milk Science Experiment

Instructions.

• Pour some milk into a shallow dish or bowl until the milk covers the bottom. Tip: Be sure to use either Whole or 2% Milk
• Add some drops of food coloring on the milk. You can use a variety of colors, just be sure to add 3-4 drops of each color.
• Add a drop of dish soap into the center of the milk
• Watch in amazement as the colors dances across the surface of the milk

Reader Interactions

November 11, 2019 at 6:47 pm

I did this in my science class and it worked really well! I looked at a lot of science experiments but couldn’t find one I liked and then I found this at the last minute and it was really good so thank you for sharing:)

April 12, 2023 at 9:03 pm

I agree, Emma. It has worked every time and was fun to watch! This explanation of the experiment is very informative. I have done this experiment a lot when I was younger. ☺️

August 19, 2020 at 11:48 am

It was pretty cool

October 19, 2021 at 8:33 pm

This was a really fun activity!

November 19, 2021 at 8:26 am

Because of this experiment I got to the finals of my Sci Expo

February 13, 2022 at 8:11 pm

It was actually pretty cool. I did this for my science project. Also, the colors came out really nice! i will definitely try again.

April 2, 2022 at 5:27 am

Thanks a million for these fantastic ideas and explanations!

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Magic Milk Science Experiment

How do you make magic milk or color changing rainbow milk? Let us show you how easy and fun simple science experiments can be! The chemical reaction in this magic milk experiment is fun to watch and makes for great hands-on learning. The perfect kitchen science as you already have all the items for it in your kitchen. Setting up science experiments at home is easier than you think.

WHAT IS MAGIC MILK?

We love super simple science experiments that you can pull out on a rainy afternoon (or in any weather). This magic milk experiment has to be one of our favorites and definitely for science experiments with milk!

Kids are naturally curious, and sharing fun, simple science activities at home or in the classroom is just another way to get kids to learn. We love to keep our science playful too! No two magic milk experiments will ever be the same!

Click here to get your free printable science guide!

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If you want to make this truly a science experiment or even a milk science fair project using the scientific method , you need to change one variable . You could repeat the experiment with different types of milk, such as skim milk, and observe the changes. Learn more about the scientific method for kids here .

• Full Fat Milk
• Liquid Food Coloring
• Dawn Dish Soap
• Cotton Swabs

NOTE: There are so many fat percentages available that the milk used is a fantastic variable to consider! Low-Fat Milk, Skim Milk, 1%, 2%, Half and Half, Cream, Heavy Whipping Cream…

MAGIC MILK INSTRUCTIONS

STEP 1: Start pouring your whole milk into a shallow dish or flat bottom surface. You don’t need a lot of milk, just enough to cover the bottom and then some.

If you have leftover milk, try our milk and vinegar plastic experim ent !

STEP 2: Next, you want to fill the top of the milk with drops of food coloring! Use as many different colors as you like.

TIP: Use a variety of colors or give your magic milk experiment a theme for the season or holiday!

STEP 3: Pour a small amount of dish soap into a separate bowl, and touch your cotton swab tip to the dish soap to coat it. Bring it over to your milk dish and gently touch the surface of the milk with the soapy cotton swab!

TIP: Try a cotton swab without dish soap first and see what happens. Talk about what is observed, then try the dish soap-soaked cotton swab and check out the difference. This is a great way to add more scientific thinking to the activity.

What happens? Make sure to read about how the magic milk experiment works below!

Remember, each time you try this magic milk experiment, it will look slightly different. It’s a fun fireworks science activity for the 4th of July or New Year!

Also, check out: Fireworks In A Jar Experiment

HOW DOES THE MAGIC MILK EXPERIMENT WORK?

Milk is made up of minerals, proteins, and fats. Proteins and fats are susceptible to changes. When dish soap is added to the milk, the soap molecules run around and try to attach to the fat molecules in the milk.

However, you wouldn’t see this change happen without the food coloring! The food coloring looks like fireworks because it’s getting bumped around , a color explosion.

The soap lowers the surface tension of the milk. When the soap molecules head for the fats, they form spherical micelles. This causes movement and creates cool bursts and swirls of color. After all the fat molecules have been found and equilibrium has been reached, there is no more movement. Are there any more hiding?

Try another cotton swab dipped in soap! 

QUESTIONS FOR REFLECTION

• What did you notice before and after?
• What happened when you put the cotton swab in the milk?
• Why do you think that happened?
• Why do you think the colors stopped moving?
• What else did you observe?

MORE FUN COLOR-CHANGING MILK EXPERIMENTS

Magic milk experiments are super easy to create themes with for different holidays! Kids love mixing in a favorite holiday with science. I know this from experience!

• Lucky Magic Milk
• Cupid’s Magic Milk
• Frosty’s Magic Milk
• Santa’s Magic Milk

MORE FUN SCIENCE EXPERIMENTS TO TRY

Love seeing chemical reactions? Check out our list of chemistry experiments for kids .

• Skittles Experiment
• Baking Soda and Vinegar Volcano
• Lava Lamp Experiment
• Growing Borax Crystals
• Diet Coke and Mentos Experiment
• Pop Rocks and Soda
• Magic Milk Experiment
• Egg In Vinegar Experiment

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17 Comments

This activity is a staple in my house! 🙂 I wanted to say that, even though you say it’s great for little kids, my older kids (6 and ELEVEN) still love this, too!!! I’m not kidding- my eleven year old son asked to do magic milk last month. 🙂 Great fun!

This looks like a terrific idea to do with my kindergarten class! However, is there a possible substitute I can use for the milk?

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Interesting and funny experiments. I like fireworks activity. A ton of value in cheap science activities and experiments.

My son suggested swapping out the soap for sanitizer and it is awesome. The color just explodes!

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The experiment was fun. We read the explanation about the soap attaching to the fat molecules. We tried it with fat free milk and the same result occurred. Why?

I things with my 4 year old grandson, and this was amazing, we did over and over and when his mom came home from work, he had to show her. Thank you so much for sharing, as on a limited income your free things help me help him learn. Sincerely, it was fun looking forward to the next experiment.

Awesome! So glad to hear he loved it that much!

Comments are closed.

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Magic Milk Science Experiment for Kids

Nothing happens if you drip food coloring onto milk, but once you add a drop of dishwashing liquid, the milk turns into a swirling wheel of color. Here’s how to perform the magic milk science experiment and a look at how it works.

Magic Milk Materials

This is a great science project for kids because all you need is milk, food coloring, and dishwashing liquid. It’s also easy on your pocketbook because you only need a little of the ingredients.

• Food Coloring
• Dishwashing liquid

How to Do the Magic Milk Science Experiment

• Pour enough milk to cover the bottom of a small place or shallow saucer.
• Add a few drops of food coloring. You don’t need to use different colors, but if you do, you can explore how colors combine to make new ones.
• Observe how boring this is. The food coloring drops stay where you put them and may even sink into the milk and disappear.
• Drip a droplet of dishwashing liquid onto the center of the milk. You don’t need to stir the milk. The colors immediately start to swirl on their own.

How the Magic Milk Experiment Works

Adding food coloring to milk doesn’t have much of an effect. Yes, you can color the milk if you stir it, but if you don’t stir it the color spreads by diffusion . Diffusion is a slow process and not very interesting to watch.

When you add dishwashing liquid, the colors start to swirl. Dishwashing liquid is a detergent. Detergents lower the surface tension of the water in the milk, making it easier for the ingredients on the plate to mix. You can observe surface tension if you pour water or milk into a glass and note you can overfill the container slightly. The anti-gravity water science trick also relies on surface tension.

But, that’s not all detergent does. Detergent is an emulsifier . Each detergent molecule has a hydrophobic (“water-fearing”) and hydrophilic (“water-loving”) portion. The hydrophilic portion orients toward water molecules, while the hydrophobic portion orients toward fat molecules. The end result is that detergent forms tiny spheres called micelles that separate the fat from the water. Basically, an emulsifier helps two immiscible (unmixable) liquids mix. The food coloring swirls throughout the milk as the detergent forms micelles around fat globules within it. The fat content of the milk matters. Skim milk contains very little fat, so the detergent doesn’t have a big effect on it. 2% milk and whole milk work much better for the magic milk project because they contain enough fat to cause a visible reaction between the detergent and milk.

From Project to Science Experiment

Science projects work due to scientific principles. For young explorers, you can explain that detergent changes the properties of milk so colors added to it mix better. Explain that the same process happens when you wash dishes. The detergent makes it easier for oil and grease to lift from dishes and get rinsed away. Also, this is a great project for kids to explore colors. They can see that blue and yellow combine to make green, red and blue combine to make purple, and so on.

But, older children can turn the science project into a science experiment. The difference is that an experiment uses the scientific method . In a nutshell, an investigator observes the project, makes a prediction or forms a hypothesis about what will happen if one thing is changed, and then conducts and experiment to see if the prediction was correct. Here are some ideas of factors to change to turn the magic milk project into a true magic milk science experiment.

• What happens if you increase the fat content of milk? You can compare skim, 2% milk, whole milk, and half-and-half. Or, you can mix oil in with milk before continuing the project. Is there a point where the thickness of the milk slows down the reaction?
• Does the project work with water? With vegetable oil? What happens if you mix water and oil and try the project?
• What happens if you sprinkle glitter onto the milk before adding the detergent?
• Temperature affects the rate of many processes and chemical reactions. Is there any difference if you use very color milk compared with hot milk?

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Magic Milk Experiment: How-To Plus Free Worksheet

This classic experiment teaches kids about basic chemistry and physics.

This fun experiment is a classic for a reason! In the magic milk experiment, kids learn about simple chemical reactions and physical properties using only a few ingredients. Read on to see how to do the experiment, and fill out the form on this page to grab your free recording sheet.

How does the magic milk experiment work?

In this experiment, you pour some milk into a shallow dish. You then add drops of food coloring to the surface of the milk. Using a cotton swab dipped into dish soap, you lightly brush the surface of the milk. The dish soap breaks the surface tension of the milk, and the soap molecules try to attach to the fat molecules in the milk. This causes swirls and bursts of fun rainbow colors.

What does the magic milk experiment teach?

This experiment teaches us about the science of molecules and how substances interact. The soap breaks down the fat molecules and makes them move apart, showing us a simple but fascinating example of chemistry in action!

Is there a magic milk video?

This video shows two different ways to do the magic milk science experiment, using very similar ingredients.

Materials Needed

To do the magic milk experiment, you will need:

• Shallow bowl or plate
• Milk, blue dish soap
• Cotton swabs
• Food coloring (inexpensive works better than gel coloring)

Our free recording sheet is also helpful— fill out the form on this page to get it.

Magic milk experiment steps:

1. pour milk into a shallow dish or bowl, just enough to cover the bottom..

2. Add drops of food coloring all over the surface of the milk.

3. Dip the end of a cotton swab into a separate dish of blue soap.

4. Lightly brush the top of the milk with the cotton swab, and watch what happens!

Grab our free magic milk experiment worksheet!

Fill out the form on this page to get your worksheet. The worksheet asks kids to guess the correct order of the steps in the experiment. Next, kids must make a prediction about what they think will happen. They can use the provided spaces to draw what happens before and after they add the dish soap. Did their predictions come true?

Additional Reflection Questions

• What happened when we added the soap to the milk?
• Why do you think the colors appeared on the milk’s surface?
• What do you think would happen if we added more soap to the milk?
• What do you think would happen if we used a different liquid instead of milk?

Can the magic milk experiment be done for a science fair?

Yes! If you want to do the magic milk experiment for a science fair, we recommend switching up some of the variables. For example: Does the fat content of the milk matter? Does the type of dish soap matter? Form a hypothesis about how changing the variables will impact the experiment. Good luck!

Looking for more experiment ideas? Check out our big list of experiment ideas here.

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Magic Milk Science Experiment: Unveiling the Chemistry of Colors

The Magic Milk science experiment is a captivating activity that combines art and science , making it an engaging experience for children and adults alike.

It’s a simple and colorful way to explore the reactions between everyday household materials such as milk, food coloring, and dish soap.

This experiment not only demonstrates a visually stunning composition of swirling colors but also provides a hands-on opportunity to observe chemical reactions and the properties of milk.

While the setup for the experiment is minimal, requiring only basic supplies, the learning opportunities are significant. It offers a chance to discuss scientific concepts such as chemical bonds, the nature of fats and proteins in milk, and the role of surfactants in reducing surface tension.

The easy-to-follow procedure also makes it ideal for explaining complex ideas in an accessible manner. As the dish soap mixes with the milk, it causes the fat and water molecules to separate, creating a burst of motion and color that serves as a practical illustration of these scientific principles.

Key Takeaways

• The experiment is a visually appealing way to learn about chemical reactions.
• Simple household items are used to demonstrate scientific concepts.
• An effective method to teach about properties of milk and surface tension.

The Science of Magic Milk

The magic milk science experiment demonstrates a fascinating chemical reaction between milk’s components and dish soap, resulting in a burst of colors as the surface tension is disrupted.

Chemistry Behind the Colors

When dish soap is added to milk, a rapid interaction occurs as the soap’s molecules race to join with the fat molecules in the milk. This soap and fat bonding causes the visible turmoil that is the foundation of the magic milk experiment . Milk is a suspension of fat micelles , which are clusters of fat molecules encased in a shell of protein and water molecules . Normally, these micelles are in a state of equilibrium , but the introduction of dish soap disturbs this balance. The soap molecules have two distinct ends: one hydrophilic (water-attracting) and one hydrophobic (water-repelling), which also attracts fats. When the dish soap is added, the hydrophobic ends latch onto the fat molecules , reducing the surface tension that keeps the water-soluble components and fats separated.

Table: Components in Magic Milk Experiment

The result is a flurry of moving colors as the fat and water molecules are shuffled around in the new absence of balanced forces, creating an explosion of color throughout the milk.

Role of Milk in the Experiment

Milk plays a pivotal role in the magic milk science experiment due to its fat content . The varying fat percentages in different types of milk can influence how the colors move and swirl during the experiment; whole milk, with a higher fat content, tends to produce more vibrant and dynamic color motions compared to skim milk or lower-fat alternatives. The proteins in milk, such as casein, form a protective ring around the fat molecules , which are disrupted by the dish soap, contributing to the churning motion observed. This illustrates the delicate balance of fats and water within the milk and demonstrates the principle of non-polar (oil-like) molecules interacting with polar substances.

Preparing for the Experiment

Before beginning the Magic Milk science experiment, it’s essential to gather all necessary materials and create an appropriate workspace. This ensures the experiment runs smoothly and allows observers to clearly witness the color explosion reaction.

List of Materials Needed

For this experiment, you will need the following supplies:

• Whole milk or 2% milk: These types of milk yield the best results due to their fat content. Skim milk and 1% milk are less effective.
• Liquid food coloring: A variety of colors for a more dramatic effect.
• Dish soap: Any brand will do, as it is the critical agent causing the reaction.
• Cotton swab or Q-tips: Used for adding dish soap to the milk.
• Shallow dish or bowl: Large enough to hold the milk in a thin layer.
• Water: A clean supply to rinse off the cotton swabs if reusing.

Solid preparation ensures the successful demonstration of the scientific principles at play and the underlying chemical reactions occurring between the dish soap and the fats in the milk.

Setting Up the Experiment Space

Choose a clear, flat surface such as a kitchen counter or a dinner plate placed on a table. Position the shallow dish or bowl centrally, where it can be easily seen and accessed. It’s advisable to have a towel or paper towels handy for any spills. Since the experiment can be messy, especially with children, protective clothing or aprons could be useful.

Ensure there is enough room around the experiment space for all observers to view the ‘magic’ as it happens. This visual spectacle, often inspired by professionals like Steve Spangler, is excellent for capturing the audience’s attention and highlighting the reactions. Proper setup not only makes the experiment more enjoyable but also helps in explaining the science behind the color explosion effectively.

Conducting the Magic Milk Experiment

The Magic Milk experiment is a fascinating visual display of chemical reactions involving colors and movement. It demonstrates how soap interacts with fat molecules in milk, resulting in a mesmerizing “color explosion.”

Steps to Create Magic Milk

• Pour the Milk : Begin by filling a shallow dish with enough whole milk to cover the bottom.
• Add Color : Carefully add several drops of food coloring to the milk. Use a variety of colors to enhance the visual effect.
• Introduce Soap : Place a drop of liquid dish soap onto a cotton swab. Gently touch the soap-laden swab to the center of the milk’s surface.

Observing the Reaction

Upon introducing the soap to the milk, one will observe the immediate movement of color. This is due to the soap’s hydrophilic (water-attracting) and hydrophobic (fat-attracting) properties causing a disruption in the fat molecules within the milk. The result is a dynamic color dance where vivid patterns and swirls are created as the soap molecules spread through the milk, showing the hydrophilic and hydrophobic reactions at play. The Magic Milk experiment not only results in a stunning color explosion , but it’s also a simple, hands-on learning activity that illustrates some basic principles of chemistry and physics.

Explaining the Concepts to Kids

When introducing the magic milk science experiment to children, it’s crucial to simplify complex scientific principles and engage their curiosity through hands-on learning. This experiment is a perfect blend of fun and education, suitable for a STEM activity or a science fair project.

Simple Explanations for Complex Science

The magic milk experiment is a wonderful way for preschoolers and older children to witness a chemical reaction in a safe environment. Adults can explain that milk is made of water, fat, and proteins, which react in an interesting way when dish soap is added. As the soap mixes with the milk, these molecules move around, causing the colors to swirl. One can explain that dish soap reduces the milk’s surface tension and reacts with the fat. To put it in simple terms for kids:

• Milk is like a party where fat, water, and proteins hang out together.
• Food coloring drops are like balloons that add color to the party.
• Dish soap is like a bubble blower that stirs things up and makes fat move around, carrying the balloons with it.

The activity not only demonstrates principles of chemistry experiments but also teaches about the scientific method , as children can make a hypothesis or prediction about what will happen when soap touches the food coloring in the milk.

Engaging Young Minds with Science

To keep young minds engaged, adults can turn the magic milk experiment into a science investigation by encouraging kids to ask questions and make predictions. Before starting, an adult might ask:

• What do you think will happen when we add soap to the milk?
• How do you think the colors will change?

This encourages kids to be scientists, developing a hypothesis . After conducting the fun science experiment , they can observe the results and see if their predictions were correct. This process promotes critical thinking and an understanding of the scientific method .

Furthermore, conducting this experiment is a safe and fun science experiment that provides adult-supervised playful learning, especially for preschoolers . As a STEM activity , it sparks interest in science through a visually stimulating show of colors.

By making science exciting and accessible, children are more likely to foster a long-term interest in the subject. This simple yet effective demonstration paves the way for engaging in more complex STEM activities in the future.

Extension Activities and Further Exploration

Once the magic milk science experiment has been successfully completed at home, there are several ways one can expand the learning experience for kids. These extension activities can help solidify understanding of chemistry principles and offer a deeper dive into the science of reactions between different substances.

Creating a Science Fair Project

A detailed approach to converting the magic milk experiment into a science fair project involves several steps. Initially, children should research the chemistry behind the reaction and present their findings. The materials needed should be listed neatly in a chart or table, including whole milk, food coloring, dish soap, and optional additions like vinegar or baking soda. A recording sheet or worksheet is essential to track results, and a video can capture the process, documenting the experiment for review. This project can be presented at the science fair, showcasing the understanding of the reaction between milk’s minerals and the soap.

Experiment Variations and Tests

Experimentation can continue by varying the materials needed , such as using different types of milk to observe the effect of different vitamins and minerals on the reaction. For example, testing skim milk versus whole milk can reveal the role of fat in the experiment. Adding substances like vinegar and baking soda introduces an acid-base reaction, which can offer even more insights into the underlying chemistry . Encourage kids to predict the outcomes, use a recording sheet to document the changes, and if possible, have a parent assist in creating a more structured experiment. These variations help children understand scientific testing and encourage curiosity about how everyday household items can create striking chemical reactions.

Frequently Asked Questions

This section covers some of the most common inquiries regarding the execution and understanding of the magic milk experiment, providing insightful answers that enhance comprehension of the experiment’s principles and variables.

How does the type of milk affect the outcome of the magic milk experiment?

The type of milk used in the magic milk experiment influences the reaction because the fat content affects the spreading of food coloring. Whole milk, with its higher fat content, tends to produce more vibrant and pronounced reactions compared to low-fat or skim milk.

What is the role of dish soap in the magic milk science experiment?

Dish soap is crucial in the magic milk science experiment as it reduces the surface tension of milk, allowing the food coloring to spread rapidly. The soap reacts with the milk’s fat molecules, creating the burst of color movement observed during the experiment.

Can the magic milk experiment be performed with non-dairy milks, and if so, how do the results compare?

Performing the experiment with non-dairy milks is possible, and while the reactions can still occur due to the presence of surfactants in the soap, the results may vary because these milk alternatives generally have different fat compositions, which affects the reaction dynamics and visual effects.

What is the chemical reaction that occurs during the magic milk science experiment?

During the magic milk experiment , the dish soap disrupts the milk’s fat molecules and reduces surface tension, causing movement in the food coloring. Although commonly referred to as a chemical reaction, it is actually a physical reaction involving the rearrangement of molecules.

How do different food colorings affect the results of the magic milk experiment?

Different food colorings can be used to vividly assess the reaction dynamics in the magic milk experiment. The variety in colors does not impact the underlying reaction but enables a more visually engaging way to observe the effects of surface tension changes on the liquid’s movement patterns.

What observations can lead to a scientific hypothesis in the context of the magic milk experiment?

Observers can hypothesize about the relationship between milk’s fat content and reaction vividness, or how the concentration and type of dish soap influence the speed and extent of color movement. These hypotheses can be tested by altering variables and noting changes in the experiment’s results .

Looking For Toddler Activities Locally?

Magic Milk Science Experiment

Krystal DeVille

September 24, 2023

Looking for a quick STEM activity that you can do in 20 minutes or less?

This is your answer! You likely already have everything you need to do the Magic Milk science experiment at home right now . Both the prep & cleanup for this experiment is simple.

But being “simple” doesn’t mean it isn’t fun! This awesome experiment is sure to amaze! I was honestly surprised by how well it worked. The results were actually amazing! But first, let’s go over everything you need.

If you’d like more STEM activity ideas, make sure to grab my FREE eBook on 25 STEM activities here .

Table of Contents

• 2 % or Whole Milk ( no skim milk!)
• Food Coloring
• Cotton Swap

How to do the Magic Milk Science Experiment

When I say this is an easy one to do on a whim, I mean it! All you need to do is follow these 4 simple steps.

Step 1: Pour Milk into a Shallow Dish

Pour the milk into a small bowl. Remember, it has to be 2% or whole milk. Skim milk won’t. However, a great way to test hypotheses would be to compare the effects on milk with different fat contents.

Step 2: Add 4-5 Drops of Food Coloring

Add a few drops of the food coloring to the milk.

Below we’ll learn how the science experiment works. The food coloring simply allows us to see the effect adding the dish soap to the milk has. The food coloring itself isn’t part of the reaction.

Step 3: Dip Cotton Swap in Dish Soap

Soak the end of your cotton swap with any kind of dish soap.

Step 4: Touch Soapy Cotton Swap to Milk

Be prepared to be amazed!

As soon as you touch the soap to the milk, you’ll see the different colored milk shoot apart.

The reaction is quick, so make sure everyone is watching!

Record what you saw happened. For extra testing, see how the effects are different depending on the type of milk you use: whole, 2% and skim.

How the Magic Milk Science Experiment Works

The secret to the dancing motion of the food coloring is all in the dish soap.

Milk is mostly made up of water, but it also contains vitamins, minerals, and fat. The fat in milk (like all fats) is an example of a nonpolar molecule, which means it does not dissolve in water.

When the soap is added to the milk, the molecules dance around to try to connect to the fat molecules in the milk.

In simplest terms, the soap causes the fat in the milk to separate from the water, which is why this won’t work with skim milk.

So why the food coloring? Without the food coloring, we wouldn’t be able to see how the milk fat molecules rapidly move around once the soap is added. Plus, its an awesome firework effect!

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What makes food coloring dance in milk?

• A Little Messy

When food coloring and soap are added to whole milk, strange things happen.

Will the same thing happen with kinds of milk that have different fat contents?

Watch the video on YouTube: https://youtu.be/zCzIKej2rXc

You Will Need

Different varieties of cow’s milk - Whole Milk, 2% Milk, 1% Milk, Skim Milk, Half and Half, heavy whipping cream

Pie plate, Baking Dish, paper plate or other containers with a flat bottom and raised sides

Toothpicks or Cotton Swabs

Food Coloring

Materials & Directions PDF

Do not drink the milk once it is used for this activity! Soapy milk is not delicious or good for you.

It is helpful to have multiple plates with milk ready to go. For example, start with a 2% milk plate and have a whole milk plate prepared and nearby to do next.

When you first do the experiment, try to keep the toothpick or cotton swab as still as possible to see the full effects. You can move it around later and see what changes!

• Pour some milk into the bottom of your container. You do not need a lot of milk, just enough to cover the bottom, plus a little extra.
• Drop different food coloring colors into the milk, as much or as little as you want.

• Pour dish soap into your small bowl. Dip your toothpick or cotton swab into the dish soap to coat it. Bring it over to the milk dish, and put the tip into the milk. Try to hold the toothpick or cotton swab still. You can move it later. Observe and discuss what happens.
• Try the experiment again using different types of milk. Observe and discuss what happens!

Experiment Extensions

• Once you try the experiment with whole milk, try it with another kind of milk or other liquids. Observe and talk about what happens! Heavy cream has the highest fat content, but because it is so thick the reaction is slow!
• You needed to keep the toothpick or cotton swab very still for the initial part of the experiment. Now try moving it around and see what happens!

Discovery Questions

Beginning the experiment, during the experiment, after the experiment, how it works.

You are observing chemistry in action! There is a reaction happening between the soap and the milk fat. Milk is made up of vitamins, minerals, proteins, and fats. Soap is really good at breaking down fats - think about how it helps get cooking grease off of dishes!

When soap is introduced to milk, the soap molecules chase down the fat molecules and surround them, forming little balls called micelles.

This movement breaks the surface tension of the milk and causes movement, which mixes the colors.

The higher the fat content of the milk, the more fat molecules the soap have to find. You should see more movement in higher fat versions of milk.

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PS PK K 1 2

Magic Milk Science Experiment

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This magic milk science experiment is a classic for kids of all ages. Using common, nontoxic kitchen supplies, the kids will create vibrant art while learning about the science behind the swirling colors that truly makes this experiment magical.

Get Ready for the Magic Milk Science Experiment:

This science experiment only requires a few common kitchen supplies:

• Milk (we used whole milk)
• Casserole dish, baking pan, or plate
• Food coloring
• Liquid dish soap (make sure it is NOT antibacterial)
• Magic Milk Printable

Print out a couple of copies of the free printable worksheet available below so the kids could keep track of their results.

Once we gathered our supplies, we sat at the kitchen table to do our science experiment. Pour a thin layer of milk into the dish and then the kids chose a few colors they wanted to use.

The kids then squeezed a couple of drops of food coloring into the milk in their dish .

Then, carefully, they dripped one drop of dish soap right into the middle of the colored milk .

Oh my, were there squeals of delight and surprise as they watched the colors scatter like fireworks!

The milk continued to move and mix and scatter the colors as if by magic. It continued for several seconds before coming to rest.

The kids tried to drip more dish soap into the milk, but guess what? Nothing happened the second time around. Why not?

The Science Behind Magic Milk

There are a couple of things going on that explain what is happening behind the magic of magic milk.

First, all liquids have this effect called surface tension . It basically means that the molecules on the surface of the liquid bead together in a little dome because of their molecular bonds. If you have ever filled a cup of water past the rim of the glass you may have noticed how the water forms a dome on top and somehow stays suspended a little above the rim. This is because of surface tension.

In this magic milk experiment the milk and food coloring form a little dome .

However, when dish soap is poured over the surface, the surface tension is broken because the dish soap breaks those bonds . This causes the colored milk to spread out like a flood over the surface of the milk.

The second effect at work here has to do with the interaction between the fat molecules in the milk and the soap molecules .

Soap is made up of two sides:

• one side loves water (it is hydrophilic)
• the other side loves fat and oil (it is hydrophobic).

Soap works by grabbing oils by its hydrophobic side and bonding with water by its hydrophilic side. When the soap is washed away with water, it takes the oils and fats along with it.

When dish soap is dropped into milk, there is a swirl of activity of soap molecules finding and bonding with fat molecules in the milk. With millions of molecules swirling around looking for mates, the colors in the milk get all mixed up! It looks like the milk is erupting for several seconds.

You may notice if you try this magic milk experiment once with whole milk and once with skim that the whole milk swirls for much longer because of the higher fat content in the milk .

If the kids want to repeat this artistic science experiment (they will) be sure to wash the dish out well with warm water and then pour in fresh milk to do it again. Once the milk is contaminated with soap it loses its “magic”.

More Science Activities and Ideas

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Want science planned for you ALL YEAR LONG?!

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July 22, 2020 at 6:44 pm

who is the author of this amazing website

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I was just looking for this info for a while. After six hours of continuous Googleing, finally I got it in your website. I wonder what is the lack of Google strategy that don’t rank this type of informative websites in top of the list. Normally the top websites are full of garbage.

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Magic Milk Science Experiment

January 11, 2023 By Emma Vanstone 4 Comments

This easy  magic milk science investigation is fantastic fun for kids of all ages. All you need is whole milk, food colouring and a little dish soap to create crazy colour explosions. Older children can use this activity to learn about emulsions .

The reaction that gives the colourful display is between the fat molecules in the milk and dish soap. This is why whole milk is the best to use.

How to set up a magic milk investigation

You’ll need.

A shallow tray

Food colouring

Washing up liquid ( dish soap )

Instructions

1. Pour a layer of milk into your baking tray or plate.

2. Gently drip a few drops of food colouring onto the surface of the milk – spread these out.

3. Add drops of the washing-up liquid on top of the food dye and watch what happens.

Safety:  Do not drink the milk after.

What do you think of our magic milk display?

Why does it work?

Think about why we use dish soap in everyday life. It’s to clean our dishes and break down the fat that makes them greasy. Milk is mainly tiny droplets of animal fat dispersed in water; whole milk has a higher fat content than semi-skimmed, which is why it’s the best one to use. The washing-up liquid/dish soap breaks down the fat in the milk. We call it an emulsifier as it allows the water and fat to mix, creating an emulsion. The emulsifier (dish soap) molecules have a water-loving head and a water-hating tail. The tail sticks into the fat droplet and surrounds it, leaving only the water-loving heads. This allows the fat to mix with the water! While doing that, it scatters the food colouring molecules, giving the colourful display you see.

Properties of emulsions

Emulsions are thicker (more viscous) than oil or water and have many uses thanks to their unique properties.

Examples of emulsions in the kitchen

Salad dressings

Other examples are paint and some cosmetics.

Immiscible liquids

Immiscible liquids are those that don’t mix to form a solution.

Examples of Immiscible liquids

Vegetable oils do not dissolve in water. We can use this property of oil and water to make a density jar .

If a mixture of oil and water is shaken and then left to stand, tiny droplets of oil float upwards, and eventually, the two liquids will separate: a layer of oil will form on the surface of the water. However, if an emulsifier is added to the oil and water, a mixture called an emulsion forms, and the oil and water do not separate.

Extension task for magic milk experiment

Try testing different dish soaps to see if they all have the same effect.

Experiment with whole, semi-skimmed and skimmed milk.

Try one of my other exciting chemistry experiments .

Contains affiliate links

Last Updated on March 14, 2023 by Emma Vanstone

Safety Notice

Science Sparks ( Wild Sparks Enterprises Ltd ) are not liable for the actions of activity of any person who uses the information in this resource or in any of the suggested further resources. Science Sparks assume no liability with regard to injuries or damage to property that may occur as a result of using the information and carrying out the practical activities contained in this resource or in any of the suggested further resources.

These activities are designed to be carried out by children working with a parent, guardian or other appropriate adult. The adult involved is fully responsible for ensuring that the activities are carried out safely.

Reader Interactions

January 23, 2018 at 6:17 pm

We have done this with whole milk, 2%, fat free, cashew milk and non dairy creamers- they all work. The kids (6-11) like the version with q-tip dabbing soap in. They also experimented with placement of food color droplets.

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Magic Milk Experiment

Updated: Jan 14, 2022 · This post may contain affiliate links.

This super fun science experiment will entertain kids of all ages - from preschool through elementary school. With just milk, dish soap, and a bit of food coloring.

Explore the surface tension of milk with this fun and colorful kid's science experiment. All you need is milk, food coloring, and dish soap!

• Food Coloring - a few colors
• Large Pan or Baking Sheet with Sides

Instructions

• Add a small amount of dish soap to the bowl, and set aside.
• Fill the pan with milk, at least 1/2" deep.
• Add drops of food coloring to the pan, scattering them around the pan as you please.
• Dip a q-tip into the dish soap, and then dip it into the milk.
• Watch as the colors scatter away from the soap, making colorful patterns in the milk!

You can use any type of pan or tray, as long as there are sides to hold in the milk!

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September 09, 2022 at 10:58 pm

Can’t wait to see more posts!

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Rainbow Magic Milk Science Experiment

Science or magic? This rainbow dancing Magic Milk Science Experiment is a fun way to explore the chemistry of surface tension.

This is one very cool experiment. To kids, it can appear more than a little magical but the effect is all science – no magic here. It’s a chemical reaction with surface tension in action! Check the explanation below the experiment procedure for more information about how and why the magic milk experiment works.

You will need:

• 1 Tablespoon dish soap/dishwashing liquid in a small container
• 1 1/2 cups of whole/full fat milk
• 10 drops of each of your chosen colours of liquid food colouring
• Dinner plate
• Cotton swab

1. Pour about one tablespoon of dish soap into a small container. Set aside.

2. Carefully pour milk onto a dinner plate. It’s okay if you see bubbles in the milk. Let the milk sit for a minute so that it stops moving in the dish, becoming completely still.

3. Drop food colouring into the milk in the middle of the dish. Keep the colours separate. The food colouring may spread out slightly as you can see pictured in our photos. You can get creative with where you place the drops and space them out how you wish.

We used neon food colouring for this activity, which looks really cool but you can stick with a classic colour palette or experiment with using just warm colours or cool colours.

4. Dip a cotton swab into the dish soap.

5. Place the dipped cotton swab in the middle of a colour and observe the magical reaction! You should see the colours start to spread out towards the sides of the plate. They will continue to move and change over time.

You can repeat this step a few times, placing the cotton swab in different areas of the milk/colouring mix.

Tip: Kids can also take their dipped cotton swab and “draw” or “swirl” in the food colouring. Eventually the colours will mix together until the milk becomes one color.

If you allow the milk to sit a while before all colours are mixed completely together, you will see the milk continue to move and change in really neat ways, as you can see in the photos.

Watch over time how different things look!

6. When complete, dispose of milk in the sink.

The Science Behind the Magic Milk Experiment:

Milk as a liquid is composed primarily of water, with much smaller percentages of carbohydrate, fat, protein and vitamins/minerals. Milk composition does vary according to the species and breed of animal, the animal’s feed and the stage of lactation of the cow.

Because of its web of hydrogen bonds, water molecules are highly attracted to each other, resulting in a high surface tension.

When the dish soap is added to the milk the soap acts as a surfactant , reducing the surface tension of the milk so that the food colouring can spread out.

Surfactant (definition): substance such as a detergent that, when added to a liquid, reduces its surface tension, thereby increasing its spreading and wetting properties. (source: britannica.com)

At the same time, the phosphates in the dish soap are reacting with the fat and protein content of the milk – the soap is trying to grab the globules of fat out of the milk to break them down, just like dish soap breaks down the grease when washing up. This interaction causes the fat particles to move around, creating the resulting swirls of moving colour.

For more STEM fun involving magic and colour, be sure to check out our cool eResource – Rainbows & Kaleidoscopes: 25 STEAM Activities Exploring Colour (and Color!) .

For fun, watch the magic milk experiment in action on a HUGE scale;

Christie Burnett is a teacher, presenter, writer and the mother of two. She created Childhood 101 as a place for teachers and parents to access engaging, high quality learning ideas.

Magic Milk Science Experiment for Kids

Categories Science , STEM

This Magic Milk Experiment is a fantastic science investigation that is always lots of fun. With just a few simple ingredients you can learn all about soap and how it affects different kinds of milk.

You can do this experiment with young children, like preschoolers, to get them excited about learning. Or older kids can make their own magic milk science fair project.

Disclosure: Adult supervision is required for all activities at all times.

Table of Contents

• More STEM activities to try
• Materials needed
• Watch the video

Instructions

• What is the science you’re learning
• Why is this important
• Turning it into an experiment
• Free printable recording sheet

More STEM Activities to try

Kids of all ages love a classic science activity. If you want another fun way to teach your kids STEM, then check out these other fun activities.

• Make a Book – STEM Invitation to Play
• How to Make A Pom Pom Shooter
• Floating City – STEM activity for Kids
• What Melts In The Sun Science Experiment
• Pine Cone Science Experiment

For more ideas, take a look at these 42 STEM Activities for Kids .

Materials Needed

• 1 Cup of whole milk
• Food coloring
• Cotton bud (optional)

Watch the Video

​How to do the Magic Milk Experiment

1. pour a glass of milk onto a plate..

You’ll need a wide, shallow dish for this simple science experiment. A plate, which allows for a thin layer of milk is perfect for watching the color explosion that is about to happen.

2. Add drops of food coloring.

I added a variety of colors to my milk. Just placing drops all throughout the surface of the milk. 

You can add your drops wherever you like. If you are doing this with a curious preschooler who will want to try it more than once, you can even experiment to see what happens when you only place dots near the center of the plate versus what happens when you only place them around the edge.

I definitely added too much food coloring to my milk, feel free to just add a few drops because the experiment will still work.

​3. Place a drop of dish soap in the middle

Place a little dish soap (you’ll only need a drop) in the middle of the plate. 

I just poured mine straight out of the bottle. However, it may be easier for young kids to scoop up a few drops of soap using a cotton swab and then placing the swab in the middle of the milk.

4. Watch the reaction.

The colors in the milk will instantly move to the outer edges of the plate. But if you keep watching then you’ll see the constant movement of colour as the colors swirl around all by themselves. This is best to see in the video , which shows a sped up version of 10 minutes of the reaction happening.

The Science Behind the Magic

What is actually happening to make this milk magic?

Milk consists of a variety of different molecules including proteins, nutrients, fats and water. In this experiment we are going to be focusing on the fat molecules (which are non-polar) and water molecules (which are polar). 

These two molecules do not mix. When they are in milk, they are floating around separately.

Soap is both polar and nonpolar, which means it will be attracted to and bond with both fat and water. The hydrophobic part will bond with fat and the hydrophilic part will bond with the water. This means that soap acts like a bridge or a magnet between these two different types of molecules.

Since soap is like a magnet for both fat and water, this means that when you add soap into milk these different types of molecules are going to be attracted to the soap. This movement of molecules is what you see in the experiment. Initially the movement you observe is of the separate fat and water molecules being attracted to the soap molecules, and then the whole soap/fat/water molecule as a whole goes flying around the plate.

Without food coloring, we wouldn’t be able to see this movement. By adding in some color, we can see how the molecules in the milk move around, causing tiny little currents for the food coloring to follow.

When all of the fat has been bonded by the soap then the reaction will stop and your experiment is complete. This is why milk with higher fat content will react for longer than skim milk, because it has more fat available to be reacted with.

Why is this important?

Knowing how soap works explains why it’s important to wash our hands to prevent the spread of diseases.

Bacteria are organisms, some of which (not all) can cause diseases.

The cell membrane of the bacteria (which is kind of like the skin of the cell) is made up of fats (otherwise known as a phospholipid bilayer). When we rub soap over our hands it bonds to the fat in the bacterias cell membrane (just like it bonded to the fat in the milk experiment).

Then when we place our hands under running water, the other part of the soap bonds with the flowing water. Since the water is flowing, it takes the bacteria it has already bonded to with it down the drain.

Turning it into an Experiment

The easiest way to turn this chemical reaction into an actual experiment is to try milks with different ratios of fat. You can try the same experiment with different types of milk (or water) and then time how long it takes for the reaction to slow down or stop.

Different types of liquids to try include:

• Water (0% fat)
• Skim or low fat milk (0.5 – 1% fat)
• Whole / high fat milk (3.25% fat)
• Whipping cream (30% fat)

This is a wonderful way to teach children about the scientific method. You can explain the basic principles of this easy science experiment and then get them to write down a hypothesis before timing how long the food colouring spreads.

You can also download and print the following recording sheet to use at home or in your classroom. Just click the large blue button below to get your copy.

Are you going to try the Magic Milk Experiment with your kids? Don’t forget to pin the idea for later.

Magic milk is a fun science activity for kids.

Use it to show children how soap works and why washing your hands is important.

Or just use it as a fun activity to get kids excited about learning. No matter which way you go, your kids will love it.

• Pour a glass of milk into a small plate
• Add drops of food coloring to the milk
• Place a drop of dish soap in the middle of the plate (you can also use a q-tip dipped in soap to do this step).
• Watch the reaction. The colors will now spread and mix all by themselves.

The higher the fat content the milk has, the longer the reaction will take to stop.

If you want to turn this into a proper experiment, where kids have to make thier own hypothesis and record their results, try milks with different fat contents as see what happens.

More Play Based Learning for Kids

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Magic Milk Experiment: Exploring Surface Tension and Chemical Reactions

The Magic Milk experiment is a mesmerizing and colorful activity that involves observing the interaction between milk, food coloring, and dish soap. Through this experiment, you’ll uncover the effects of surface tension and chemical reactions in a visually captivating way.

Materials Needed for this science experiment:

• Milk (whole milk works best)
• Flat dish or plate
• Food coloring (different colors)
• Cotton swabs or toothpicks
• Protective cover for the workspace

1. Set Up the Workspace: Choose a clean and flat surface for the experiment. Place a protective cover on the surface to catch any spills.

2. Pour Milk on the Plate: Pour a thin layer of milk onto the flat dish or plate, covering the bottom with a shallow pool of milk.

3. Add Drops of Food Coloring: Drop different colors of food coloring onto the milk. You can use multiple drops of different colors in various spots on the milk’s surface.

4. Observe the Colors: Take a moment to observe how the drops of food coloring remain on the milk’s surface, creating colorful dots without mixing.

5. Add Dish Soap: Dip a cotton swab or toothpick into dish soap to coat the tip. Gently touch the coated tip to one of the food coloring drops on the milk’s surface.

6. Observe the Reaction: Watch as the colors rapidly disperse and mix as soon as the dish soap touches the milk. You’ll notice swirling patterns of color spreading throughout the milk.

7. Experiment with Movements: You can experiment by touching different food coloring drops with the soapy cotton swab or toothpick. Each time you touch a drop, you’ll trigger the colorful dispersion.

8. Reflect on Surface Tension: Discuss with children how the milk’s surface tension prevents the food coloring from immediately spreading. When the dish soap breaks the surface tension, it allows the colors to mix and move.

9. Experiment with Patterns: Encourage creativity by creating patterns or designs with the food coloring drops before introducing the dish soap.

10. Safety Note: Although the materials are safe to touch, it’s recommended to avoid ingesting any of the ingredients.

The Magic Milk experiment is a visually captivating way to explore the concepts of surface tension and chemical reactions. It engages children’s curiosity and provides an opportunity to discuss how substances interact with each other at a molecular level. This activity is not only educational but also a fun and colorful way to learn about science.

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Babble Dabble Do

See Exploding Colors in the Magic Milk Experiment

February 25, 2022 by Ana Dziengel 24 Comments

See exploding bursts of color in the amazing magic milk experiment! We’ll show you some two ways to do the experiment and an extension idea for the project as well.

When you add a little bit of dish soap to milk and food coloring, the colors swirl around to form what I would deem very artistic and abstract paintings! For the science behind it scroll to the end of this post.

The magic milk science experiment is a simple science experiment you can do with everyday materials. I love showing kids how to do chemistry experiments using simple household supplies. In fact I would argue that some of the best at-home science experiments use kitchen ingredient s !

We did this project in our after school classes and when our students asked to “take it home” I told them they could easily recreate it in their own kitchen.

Video Overview

Detailed instructions for the magic milk experiment:, how to do the magic milk experiment, magic milk experiment materials.

• Almond Milk or Cow’s Milk
• Q-tips (Cotton Swab)
• Cotton Balls
• Food coloring
• Shallow plate or wide bowls

Magic Milk Instructions: Method #1

• Fill a plate or bowl with milk.
• Drop in at least 2 drops of each of four colors of food coloring. The more variety of colors the cooler the painting.
• Generously dip the end of a q-tip in dish soap.
• Now dip the q-tip (cotton swab) into the milk next to a drop of color.
• The first thing that will happen is the color will burst as soon as the dish soap hits it. It’s a great effect but very short lived. Once there is a little dishsoap in the milk it no longer “bursts”.
• Gently swirl the q-tip through the different colors and you’ll see little rivers of color start to form.
• Continue until the colors begin to mix and become brown. Empty your plate/bowl and repeat.

Magic Milk Experiment Instructions: Method # 2

Time needed:  10 minutes.

This version of the magic milk experiment lasts a long time, provided kids can restrain themselves from moving the cotton ball!

Pour a thin layer of milk in a plate or bowl.

Add a few drops each of food coloring on the center of the plate.

Soak a cotton ball in dish soap.

Carefully place the cotton ball in the center. The colors will explode out of the center!

Let the reaction continue until the colors begin to mix and become brown.

Tips & More

• You don’t need that much milk! I vastly overestimated how much we would need. For a class of 25 kids we used 1 1/2 gallons of milk.
• This is a great use of expired milk products. Put that small amount of whipping cream at the back of your refrigerator to use.
• Kids love the magic aspect of this project. We called the cotton swabs “magic wands.”
• Too much swishing and swirling and you’ll end up with brown muck fast. Of course kids don’t seem to care!

A word about food insecurity

We try to be respectful of the challenges children and families face including food insecurity. As an educator, I try to avoid using food in projects when possible. I make exceptions for projects that may have a lot to teach kids and where I feel we won’t be wasteful. That said, please think carefully about the population of students and families you serve before doing this project. Consider whether they would find this wasteful or offensive before proceeding. Also consider vegan families who may not want their children working with animal products; see some of the alternatives we suggest below.

Magic Milk Variations

• Try Different Milk Types  We have used almond and cow’s milk for this experiment and both worked well. The higher the fat content of the milk the more pronounced the “explosions” should be. A fun experiment would be to compare the results with different types of milk: almond, cow, rice, coconut. You can also experiment with cream, whole milk, and skim milk to see if there is a difference.
• Premix the soap and milk For a variation we premixed the milk and dish soap. You won’t have the color burst effect but it does seem to keep the colors separate a little longer.

The Science Behind the Magic Milk Experiment:

The dish soap molecules are attracted to the fat molecules in the milk. As soon as you introduce the soap to the milk/coloring mixture the molecules race around trying to bond. The food coloring gets pushed around in the process and appears to burst. Eventually the molecules all bond and the reaction stops.

This is a good example of how detergents work, their molecules have two ends: one end is attracted to oils and the other to water. One end of detergent molecules attracts oils and dirt from clothes, dishes etc., and as they stick together they break the oil and dirt down into smaller, easy to remove pieces.

How to Do the Magic Milk Experiment in the Classroom

If you would like to the magic milk experiment with a class full of kids here are step-by step instructions.

Per student Materials:

• (1) Small Plate or other shallow dish (make sure these are waterproof)
• (1) Large Plate or other shallow dish
• Tray to put underneath

NOTE: You may also use a divided plate as pictured above.

T eacher’s Materials:

• Milk 1.5 gallons per class of 25 students
• Tubs to collect dishes in afterwards

Sh ared Materials:

• Small bowl of dish soap
• Q-tips (Cotton swabs)
• Small bottles of liquid food coloring

Experiment #1 Procedure:

• Pass out per student materials. Ask students to place the small plate in the center of the table. It will be used for the second experiment. Ask students to place the large plate in the center of their tray.
• Explain the experiment first. Tell students they will be making colorful explosions using milk and food coloring and a “magic ingredient.” Tell students to use only a few drops of food coloring once it is available. Demonstrate how to carefully squeeze drops out of the food coloring bottles.
• Teacher(s) pour a thin layer of milk in each plate.
• Pass out the shared materials to each group of students.
• Ask students to carefully drop several drops of food coloring in the milk around their plate. Remind them not to disturb the color.
• When everyone has added color tell students to grab a “magic wand” AKA a Q-tip. Ask them to dip the wand into the magic ingredient (soap) but hold it to the side of the plate until everyone is ready. You can ask them if they know what the magic ingredient is.
• Do a countdown and on the count of 3 student should dip their q-tip into one of the drops of color. Instruct students to continue dipping the q-tip into the other drops. Listen for the oohs and aahs!
• When done the teacher should place the plates and milk in tubs to clean.

Experiment #2 Procedure:

• Ask students to place the small plate in the center of their tray.
• Teacher(s) pour a thin layer of milk in each small plate.
• Ask students to carefully drop a good squeeze of three colors of food coloring near the center of their plate. Remind them not to disturb the color.
• When everyone has added color tell students to dip a cotton ball in the soap.
• Instruct students to place the cotton ball in the center of the plate and not move it. See video below. This is an exercise in restraint!
• Watch as the color explodes out of the center of the plate/cotton ball.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Ana from Babble Dabble Do (@babbledabbledo)

Turn the magic milk experiment into colorful paper!

Did you know you can expand on this experiment by making Marbled Milk Paper ?

Go HERE   for instructions: 

More Favorite Science Projects to Try:

Michelle - Little Paper Dog says

January 29, 2013 at 7:17 pm

So cool! I can’t wait to try this out with my little guy. 🙂

Ana Dziengel says

January 30, 2013 at 2:28 pm

Thanks Michelle! So simple and fun! BTW your blog is lovely! I particularly love that you have fast and easy projects; I’m trying to do something similar on my blog: quick, easy, simple projects using stuff you already have on hand.

Amanda Preiser says

April 18, 2013 at 5:06 am

This is awesome my daughter and I are going to do this today!

April 18, 2013 at 5:33 am

Thanks for stopping in Amanda! It’s a super fun and simple project. Enjoy!

August 21, 2014 at 11:08 am

Thanks! I’m an art teacher. There’s so many meet ideas I got from your blog. Thanks!

September 4, 2014 at 3:49 am

Linda, I’m thrilled to hear it! Thanks for stopping by 🙂

Denise says

August 23, 2014 at 1:45 pm

what type of paper did you use for the milk painting project?

September 4, 2014 at 3:51 am

Hi Denise, I used watercolor paper 🙂

Virginia says

January 3, 2015 at 12:34 pm

Did I miss something? I didn’t see directions for a little paper dog. I love this site. GREAT ideas Sorry if ? is dum! I can hardly wait to make the crystals. You know, Epsom salts have done ‘miracles’ ever since I knew of them! They were up front and most important in the “medicine cabinet” of my parents who had fifteen children, therefore many opportunities to use the salts for ‘injuries, localized infections and sore spots.’ Now I see they can add enormously to the decorations in my life as well as do almost magical “healing” Wish my Dad could see those! “What a Wonderful World!” Thank-you!

January 5, 2015 at 5:30 am

Thanks Virginia!

Rachel Holland says

February 7, 2015 at 9:57 am

I have tried this experiment out with my children today. I was really excited about it after seeing the lovely photo’s etc, however it was a bit of a flop. Tried it with Almond milk as suggested and semi skimmed cows milk, but when we put in the washing up liquid not much really happened. We changed the washing up liquid and got much better colour spread. However when it did the colours almost pretty much disappeared and trying to get paintings from them was so wishy washy. Are food colourings in the US very different to those in the UK, or do I just need to buy better colourings? I assumed that the liquid colourings from my local supermarket would be fine. I have also tried with gel colouring (which is the only thing that most stores stock) but this wasn’t particularly good either. I really want to make some lovely backings for Mother’s day cards etc but I am drawing a blank! Any help you could give would be great.

February 19, 2015 at 4:14 am

Hi Rachel, I’m sorry to hear this! Gel food coloring will not work. Regular food coloring should work fine. You will need to make the prints right away, if you wait until the colors are mixed you will get muddy results. And make sure you are using watercolor paper. I tried the project using cardstock and regular paper and they just didn’t absorb the color well. I hope this helps and please keep me posted!

J lewis says

February 19, 2017 at 10:09 am

Hello there, We used paste food colouring from cake shop, used to colour roll out icing, much better than the supermarket colours, which are useless for most things now as they have changed the formulas. Mix the colour paste with a little water to make a strong coloured liquid, we use this for colouring pasta too and play dough.

February 22, 2017 at 5:19 am

Thanks for the tip!

August 19, 2015 at 9:18 am

Was looking for the science explanation (chemical reactions) to share with the students while doing this? I like teaching the science of a science based experiment.

Neera Talukder says

October 25, 2015 at 6:56 am

can the whole milk be used as a substitute for almond milk ?

November 9, 2015 at 9:12 am

Absolutely!

Peggy Ashbrook says

November 30, 2015 at 4:27 am

I love it when you add the science concepts involved, both at an adult level to refresh our memories or learn new, and at a level appropriate for young children. Exploring the properties of art materials engages children in art and science!

August 16, 2016 at 5:13 am

Thanks so much Peggy!

Lisa Lewis says

January 21, 2016 at 8:07 am

I have tried the milk art 3 times with my grandchildren. We were very excited to watch the action of the colors in the milk but no much happened. I used whole milk, food colors, and Dawn dish soap. But once I put the drops of soap in the colors spread a little and then nothing else happened, I have read the posts and people talk about all the movement of the colors but we didn’t get that result. Am I doing something wrong?

August 16, 2016 at 4:51 am

Once the soap and fat molecules combine the reaction does stop. We like to swirl the milk using Q-tips after and watch the colors swirl.

Milton Garcia says

August 7, 2016 at 7:01 am

Messy. But I think my kids would love this activity.

August 15, 2016 at 8:06 am

They will love it!

Morgan says

August 23, 2016 at 12:22 pm

This looks like so much, and I love how it turns out. This would be a great project to take on with my four-year-old! Thanks so much for the idea!

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Science At Play: Magic Milk

• Caroline Bogue
• August 19, 2020

Have you ever wanted to do a science experiment using colorful dye and sparkles? This milk experiment allows you to do just that! Prepare to be amazed as a chemical reaction occurs right in front of you in seconds and then learn more about the science behind it. 

MATERIAL LIST:

• Whole Milk 
• Food coloring
• Glitter (optional)
• Shiny confetti (optional)
• Cotton swabs 

INSTRUCTIONS:

• Pour your milk into a medium bowl or dish – you want to make sure there is about one inch of liquid. 
• Slowly add in food coloring. We encourage you to get creative and mix in multiple colors! If you have any, now is a good time to pour in your glitter or confetti.
• Next, pour some dish soap into the milk.
• Cover part of the cotton swab with dish soap and dab it against the surface of the milk.
• Look out for a chemical reaction!

WHAT IS THE SCIENCE:

Milk is made up of fats, water, and minerals. It is a liquid, which has surface tension, so its molecules produce positive and negative charges that keep the liquid in a steady state. Those same charges repel and attract other molecules, like the dish soap we added. 

Dish soap is a special kind of substance called a surfactant, which is able to affect a liquid’s surface tension with both hydrophilic (“water-loving”) and hydrophobic (“water-hating”) parts. The hydrophilic parts attached to the water molecules in the milk, and the hydrophobic parts attached to the fats, causing the milk to start to separate. We normally wouldn’t be able to see this reaction taking place, but the food coloring and glitter help us do that!   

Watch this video if you are interested in learning a little more about the science behind this  Magic Milk Experiment !

CHEMISTRY CAREERS:

https://www.mendeley.com/careers/article/top-10-chemistry-jobs/

There are a broad range of possible chemistry careers, ranging from teachers to chemists. Teachers can work in middle schools, high schools, community colleges, and universities. At a research university, professors are able to collaborate with students to conduct research that helps find life-saving treatments, make discoveries about the environment and the world around us, build useful chemical compounds that help with manufacturing, and more. A forensic chemist works at crime scenes and searches for and examines remains in a lab–they might be looking at toxicology or reactions that took place in the human body to help law enforcement officials solve crimes. 

To learn more, the American Chemical Society has a comprehensive list of options. We encourage you to check it out! 

CHALLENGES:

• Try using 2% milk – what do you notice about the reaction. Why do you think this happens?
• Then try using fat free milk. Compare the chemical reaction against the reactions you noticed for the whole and 2% milks.

ASK YOUR YOUNG STUDENTS:

• Why don’t you think we’re normally able to see this reaction?

https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/surfactant-science-make-a-milk-rainbow/

This week is Family STEM Week at the Connecticut Science Center. Check out CTScienceCenter.org to learn all the ways you can interact with us both online and in person. 

Caroline Bogue is a senior at Bates College. She is studying psychology with an Archaeology and Material Culture concentration. This summer, she is working as a Public Programs Intern at the Connecticut Science Center to assist with virtual programming and remote learning activities. She is passionate about animal care and wildlife. In her free time, she enjoys playing tennis and being outdoors, and she has experience playing soccer and basketball at the collegiate level.

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Adding food coloring to milk is nothing very exciting, except the beauty of the colors that spread on the surface of the milk. But if you use one additional ingredient, you will observe an explosion of colors in the milk. The colors mix and turn on themselves as if by magic. This magic milk experience will allow you to observe the movement of molecules and to understand that milk is a mixture of many things.

You will need:

• Food coloring
• Dishwashing liquid
• A cotton swab

From 4 years old

Difficulty : easy

Let's experiment.

Pour milk on your plate or in a flat dish. A height of a few millimeters is sufficient.

Add drops of food coloring in the milk

Use as many colors as you want

Dip your cotton swab in the dishwashing liquid, and then dip it in the plate.

What’s happening?

Understand the experiment

An explosion of colors !

Milk is made up of several things. Mainly water, but also vitamins, proteins and fat molecules. You know that fat and water don’t mix at all. It is calle “immiscibility”. Consequently, the fat molecules are present in milk into the form of dispersed microdroplets.

Dish soap is responsible for this explosion of color. The soap is composed of molecules that love both water and fat. So when you add a drop of soap, the molecules disperse to catch the fat molecules. Hence the movements you observe. These movements, you would not see them without food coloring.

Use different kinds of milk: skim milk, semi-skimmed milk, and whole milk. As fat content varies, observe the behavior differences.

Artistic touch

Take pictures to capture the moment. Repeat with different colors to observe how they move and mix.

Other fun experiments to do at home

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Do you want to send secret messages to your friends, without anyone else being able to read it? Or even send a secret invitation to a lover? Play with light and color transmission to hide your messages. It’s your turn to play! […]

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Magic Milk Science Experiment For Kids: A Fun and Educational Adventure

Are you looking for an exciting and educational activity to engage your children’s curious minds? Look no further than the magic milk science experiment brought to you by The Kids Point! This simple yet captivating experiment combines elements of chemistry, physics, and color theory, all while providing a mesmerizing visual display that will leave your kids in awe. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the materials you’ll need, the science behind the magic, and step-by-step instructions to conduct the experiment safely at home. Let’s embark on this magical journey together with The Kids Point !

What You’ll Need

Before we dive into the science behind the magic milk experiment, let’s gather the necessary materials:

• Whole milk (low-fat or skim milk may not work as effectively)
• Dish soap (liquid dish soap works best)
• Food coloring (multiple colors for a more vibrant display)
• A shallow dish or plate (preferably white or light-colored)
• Cotton swabs or cotton balls
• Optional: A dropper or pipette for precise color application

With these readily available items, you’re all set to embark on your magical milk adventure!

The Science Behind the Magic

At its core, the magic milk experiment explores the concepts of surface tension, emulsification, and chemical reactions. Here’s a brief overview of the science behind each element:

• Surface Tension: Milk contains proteins and fats that are suspended in water. These molecules tend to stick together, creating a thin layer on the surface of the milk known as surface tension. When you introduce dish soap to the milk, it disrupts this surface tension, causing the milk molecules to scatter.
• Emulsification: Dish soap is an emulsifier, meaning it has properties that allow it to interact with both water and oil-based substances. In the case of the magic milk experiment, the dish soap molecules bond with the fat molecules in the milk, creating a reaction that causes the colors to disperse.
• Chemical Reactions: While the interaction between the dish soap and milk is primarily physical, there are also chemical reactions occurring at the molecular level. These reactions contribute to the mesmerizing patterns and colors that form as the experiment unfolds.

By understanding these fundamental scientific principles, children can gain insight into the fascinating world of chemistry and physics in a hands-on and engaging way.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Now that we’ve explored the science behind the magic milk experiment, let’s dive into the step-by-step instructions to conduct the experiment:

• Prepare Your Workspace: Find a clean and flat surface to conduct the experiment. Place a shallow dish or plate in the center of the workspace.
• Pour the Milk: Carefully pour enough whole milk into the dish to cover the bottom with a thin layer. Make sure the milk is evenly distributed across the surface of the dish.
• Add Food Coloring: Using the dropper or pipette, add drops of food coloring to the surface of the milk. You can create various patterns or designs by spacing out the drops and using multiple colors.
• Apply Dish Soap: Dip a cotton swab or cotton ball into the dish soap, ensuring that it is saturated but not dripping. Gently touch the surface of the milk with the soapy cotton swab, focusing on areas with food coloring.
• Observe and Explore: Watch in amazement as the colors begin to disperse and swirl across the surface of the milk. Encourage your children to observe closely and describe what they see. They may notice patterns forming or colors mixing together in unexpected ways.
• Experiment and Explore: Once the initial reaction has subsided, feel free to experiment further! You can add more drops of food coloring, try different dish soap concentrations, or even vary the type of milk used to see how it affects the results.
• Discuss and Learn: After completing the experiment, take some time to discuss the science behind the magic milk with your children. Ask them questions about what they observed and encourage them to think critically about the underlying principles at play.

Safety Tips

While the magic milk experiment is generally safe and suitable for children of all ages, it’s essential to keep a few safety tips in mind:

• Adult Supervision: Ensure that an adult supervises the experiment at all times, especially when handling dish soap and other potentially hazardous materials.
• Avoid Ingestion: While the ingredients used in the experiment are non-toxic, they are not intended for consumption. Remind children not to ingest the milk, dish soap, or food coloring.
• Clean-Up: Clean up any spills or messes promptly to prevent slips and falls. Wash hands thoroughly after handling the materials.

By following these safety guidelines, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone involved.

Educational Benefits

The magic milk experiment offers numerous educational benefits for children, including:

• Hands-On Learning: Engaging in hands-on experiments allows children to actively explore scientific concepts and develop a deeper understanding of how the world works.
• Critical Thinking: Encouraging children to observe, question, and analyze the results of the experiment promotes critical thinking skills and scientific inquiry.
• Creativity and Imagination: The vibrant colors and swirling patterns of the magic milk experiment spark creativity and imagination, inspiring children to think creatively and express themselves artistically.
• Cross-Disciplinary Learning: The experiment integrates principles from chemistry, physics, and art, providing a holistic learning experience that transcends traditional disciplinary boundaries.

By incorporating the magic milk experiment into your educational activities, you can foster a lifelong love of learning and curiosity in your children.

The magic milk science experiment is a fun, educational, and captivating activity that is sure to delight children of all ages. By exploring the science behind surface tension, emulsification, and chemical reactions, children can gain valuable insight into the fascinating world of chemistry and physics. With simple materials and step-by-step instructions, conducting the experiment at home is easy and accessible for parents and educators alike. So why wait? Gather your materials from The Kids Point , unleash your creativity, and embark on a magical journey of scientific discovery with the magic milk experiment today!

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Magic Milk Fireworks Science Experiment

Magic milk experiment supplies:

• Full fat milk 
• Food colouring
• Washing up liquid
• Cotton buds (q tips) 
• A dish with a flat bottom 

How to do the magic milk experiment

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Cool Magic Milk Experiment You Have to Try

A good magic trick is fascinating. And this is one cool magic milk experiment you have to try . It’s a mind-blowing trick that will excite your kids and get them interested in learning more about magic, science and art.

If you love this, you’ll enjoy my other simple homeschool science experiments !

I used simple household products to get this stunning effect. It’s so easy but the results are amazing. And this is one that can be done relatively unsupervised if you wish, because none of the products are dangerous to kids!

Though, personally, I love to see how it works just as much as the kids do.

Plus, you have everything in your kitchen right now to get started.

Start with some milk, preferably room temperature, some food coloring, cotton swabs, and a little dish soap. You’ll also need a shallow bowl with a lip or shallow container to hold the milk.

It doesn’t matter what colors you use, but contrasting colors will be more obvious, and coordinating colors will be more subtle. It all depends on the effect you want to see.

If you love this activity, you must try this Catapult STEM Activity with Popsicle Sticks .

This post may contain affiliate links meaning I get commissions for purchases made through links in this post. Read my disclosure policy here.

Why the Magic Milk Experiment Works

Contrary to what it looks like, milk isn’t just milk! It’s made up of mostly water, with a bit of fat in it, along with other nutrients — vitamins, minerals, proteins, etc.

The fat is in small droplets, held in solution in the water. That is, the fat molecules are suspended between the molecules of the water. And this fat (and the proteins) are super sensitive to changes in the milk.

When you first add the colors to the milk, they kind of “sit” on top of the milk. They might slowly spread through it, similar to paint spreading on paper.

They are held by the water tension in the milk, on the surface. So at first, it looks like not much happens.

When you add the dishwashing liquid soap, that’s when things start moving — literally!

The soap molecules cause a chemical reaction that makes the colors mix together and moves around in the milk.

In fact, it’s not really the colors moving, but the food coloring that allows us to see the chemical reaction between the soap and the milk fat.

What happens in the Magic Milk Experiment

The soap also lowers the surface tension of the milk, allowing the colors to mix and move about more freely. So for a bit, you’ll see everything move around and swirl, before finally settling.

It’s a lot of fun to watch!

The soap reacts with both the proteins in the milk and the milk fat molecule themselves. When the soap and proteins interact, the soap makes the proteins change shape, sending them swirling, which in turn makes the colors swirl about.

And the soap and fat want to join together in pockets called “micelles” (similar to how soap lifts the grease off your dirty pans!), so that also causes movement.

Eventually, everything reaches a balance or “equilibrium”, and the reaction ends. But the milk colors will still move about for a bit as the excess energy works its way out.

Magic Milk Variations

You can change the experiment by changing up the colors and adding cookie cutters to add different themes – it’s a fun way to change things up with this classic science experiment.

Recommended Science Experiment Books for Kids

Want more great science experiments with your kids? Check out some of our favorite science experiment books! And you can grab the instructions and materials list for this cool magic milk experiment below.

I enjoy simple science experiments that use household items that are easy to find. If you have any of these science books, you can plan ahead and gather the materials you need so you always have supplies ready to go for science.

Simple Magic Milk Science Experiment

• 1 1/2 cups of milk
• Liquid food coloring
• Cotton swabs
• Dinner plate or shallow dish
• Small container

Instructions

• Pour about one tablespoon of dish soap into a small container.
• Pour milk onto a plate. (It’s ok if you see bubbles.)
• Drip a few drops of food coloring of choice in the center of the milk. You can get creative with where you drop the drops and space them out how you wish. (Note: Food coloring may spread out slightly as pictured.)
• Dip a cotton swab into the dish soap.
• Place the cotton swab in the middle of the colors and watch what happens! You should see the colors start to spread out towards the sides of the plate and change over time. You can repeat this step a few times.
• Tip: Kids can take their cotton swab and “draw” or “swirl” in the colors. Eventually the colors will mix together until the milk becomes one color.    
• If you allow the milk to sit a while before all colors are mixed completely together, you can see the milk change in neat ways as pictured here.
• Watch over time how different things look!
• When complete, dispose of milk in the sink. 

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Did you love this simple science experiment? Try one of these other fun science activities to add some fun science experiments to your homeschool.

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Soap is something that most people probably take for granted, but it has some really interesting properties. This activity uses soap to disrupt the surface tension of milk, producing swirling colourful patterns of food colouring dissolved in milk.

Printable downloads

Follow these steps…

Think and talk about…

• What colours do you think you will see when the different food colourings mix?
• What is making the food colouring move?

Investigate…

• What happens if you use different types of milk, such as semi-skimmed, low fat or soya milk?
• What happens if you use water instead of milk? Will it still work?
• Try different types of soap and see which one works best.

Did you know?

The earliest recorded evidence of soap dates all the way back to around 2800 BCE.

What’s the science?

Food colouring dissolves well in pure water. Milk is mostly water, but it has billions of tiny droplets of fat suspended in it. Food colouring doesn’t dissolve in fat, so the droplets prevent the food colouring from mixing very far into the water.

The water molecules at the surface of the milk are all pulling on each other, so the surface is under tension. Washing-up liquid reduces the surface tension, but only where the drop falls. Like the rubber of a burst balloon, the rest of the surface rapidly pulls away, and this causes the milk to churn and mix, resulting in the colours you see.

Science in your world

Dissolving soap in water reduces the surface tension, making it possible to blow bubbles.

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