Dyed rice for sensory bins
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White rice shaken in a bag with vinegar and food coloring, then dried in bright colors for sensory play.
What You’ll Need
- White rice uncooked: 1 cup per color
- White vinegar: 1 teaspoon (vinegar version; lemon juice can replace it for scented rice)
- OR rubbing alcohol: 1 teaspoon per bag (alternative version)
- Food coloring as desired
- Zip-top bags or sealed containers parchment paper, measuring spoon
- Optional: scoops, bowls, funnels, small cups, small toys
Equipment
- zip-top bags
- baking sheet
Directions
- Put 1 cup of rice in a container or zip-top bag (use more for a bigger batch).
- Add 1 teaspoon white vinegar (or 1 teaspoon rubbing alcohol per bag).
- Add food coloring until you like the shade.
- Close the bag and shake hard for 1 to 2 minutes until the rice is evenly coated.
- Spread it out in one layer on parchment paper, paper towel, or a tray to dry (about 30 minutes to 1 hour; about an hour for 1 cup per paper towel).
- When dry, move it to a sensory bin. Mix colors for rainbow rice.
Notes
Store in gallon zip-top bags and reuse. The rubbing alcohol evaporates as the rice dries; use vinegar instead, or air the rice longer, if the smell bothers you. Safety: dyed rice is NOT edible, so don't cook or eat it. Raw rice is a choking hazard and can go up noses and into ears, so supervise closely; it's best for ages 3 and up. Grown-ups handle the rubbing alcohol, which is flammable.