The Myth of the Perfect Bubble Solution
Every bubble artist — and every curious parent — has chased the idea of a “perfect bubble solution.” That magical mix that will create huge, shimmering bubbles every single time, no matter the conditions. The truth? It doesn’t exist.
There are plenty of great recipes out there, and most share the same basic ingredients: soap, water, and something to help the bubbles grow to huge proportions. But much like baking bread, it’s not just the recipe that matters — it’s the process, the conditions, and the care.
Bread is almost always flour, water, yeast, and salt. Yet hydration levels, the weather, and how the dough is kneaded or proofed can make one loaf airy and tender while another turns out dense. Bubbles are the same way. Humidity, temperature, wind, pollution, or pollen in the air, and even how the solution is mixed and stored all affect the results.
Different recipes work better for different applications. Outdoor solutions tend to be more robust, while indoor solutions focus on lightness and reliability for tricks. You might prefer adding a little glycerin if you live in a dry climate, or keeping things simple if humidity is on your side. There’s no single “right” answer — it’s about what works for you.
When I develop a product in my lab, I start with a “spec” — a list of exactly what I want the product to do. That’s how I approached Big Bubble Powder. I wanted something easy to mix, consistent, ready to use without waiting overnight, and capable of producing big, clear, beautiful bubbles. Could adjusting pH or using a different kind of polymer make a difference? Maybe — but there are so many factors at play, it’s impossible to control them all in search of the “perfect” mix.
I keep it simple so I can focus on the bubbles themselves, the kids, and putting on a great show. Because honestly, how you present the bubbles — and how you make your audience feel — is every bit as important, if not more, than the formula you use.
A few things I’ve learned along the way:
- I don’t adjust for pH. It’s too easy to overdo and ruin a batch. My theory is that baking soda and citric acid combine to form sodium citrate, which softens water. Adding a pinch of sodium citrate (about ½ teaspoon per gallon) can make colors pop, but it also increases foam. Dawn Platinum already contains sodium citrate, so you can skip it if you’re using Platinum.
- I don’t use glycerin or other humectants. I’ve tested everything from glycerin to expensive hyaluronic acid, and while they might give an extra second of hang time, wind and temperature have a much bigger impact on outdoor bubbles. If I lived in a drier climate, I might experiment more, but for most people, it’s not essential.
So instead of chasing the “perfect” formula, strive for consistency. Finding a formula, and a mixing method that you love, and then doing it the exact same way over, and over again is key. It lets you focus on the bigger picture, and making a great show. Play with the bubbles, find out what works best in certain conditions. Switch your gear to match the weather — on hot days, grab a garland or a net for more forgiving bubbles for example.
In the end, bubbles are as much an art as they are a science. The magic isn’t locked in a single, flawless recipe — it’s in your hands, your tools, your timing, and the joy you bring to the people watching