5 Easy Ways to Activate Slime

5 Easy Ways to Activate Slime

Slime, a beloved childhood delight, has made a grand resurgence in recent years. Its gooey, tactile nature has captivated individuals of all ages. However, activating slime, turning it from a powdery substance into a stretchy marvel, can be a daunting task for the uninitiated. Fear not, for this comprehensive guide will illuminate the path to successful slime activation, empowering you to unleash your inner slime master.

The key to activating slime lies in understanding the crucial role of activator solutions. These solutions, typically consisting of borax or contact lens solution, introduce ions into the slime mixture, triggering a chemical reaction that cross-links the polymer chains. The result? A viscous, elastic substance we know and adore as slime. The choice of activator depends on the specific slime recipe being used, so it’s essential to carefully follow the instructions provided.

The activation process itself is relatively straightforward. Once the activator solution has been added to the slime mixture, gentle stirring or kneading is required to ensure thorough mixing. The time taken for the slime to activate can vary depending on the type of activator used, the amount added, and the temperature of the mixture. As the slime begins to come together, it will gradually become less sticky and more cohesive. Once the desired consistency is achieved, the slime is ready to be played with or molded into countless creative shapes.

How to Activate Slime

Slime, a popular toy for both children and adults, comes in a dehydrated form. To use it, you need to activate it by adding water. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

  1. Gather your materials. You will need the dehydrated slime, a bowl, a spoon or stirring stick, and water.
  2. Pour the slime into the bowl. Use the spoon or stirring stick to break up any clumps.
  3. Add water slowly and stir. Start by adding a small amount of water and stir until the slime starts to form. Continue adding water a little at a time and stirring until the slime reaches the desired consistency.
  4. Knead the slime. Once the slime is activated, you can knead it with your hands to further soften and smooth it.
  5. Play with the slime! You can stretch, squeeze, bounce, or shape the slime to your liking.
  6. Tips:

    • Use warm water to activate the slime more easily.
    • Add a little bit of food coloring to the water to create a custom color of slime.
    • If the slime is too sticky, add more water. If it is too runny, add more dehydrated slime.
    • Store the slime in an airtight container to keep it fresh.

    People Also Ask

    How do you activate slime without activator?

    You can activate slime without activator using water, baking soda, or contact lens solution.

    How do you activate Elmer’s glue slime?

    To activate Elmer’s glue slime, mix equal parts Elmer’s glue and water in a bowl. Stir until well combined. Add a few drops of food coloring, if desired. Slowly add a solution of 1 teaspoon borax powder mixed with 1 cup of water. Stir until the slime forms.

    How do you activate PVA slime?

    To activate PVA slime, mix 1 part PVA glue with 1 part water in a bowl. Stir until well combined. Add a few drops of food coloring, if desired. Slowly add a solution of 1 teaspoon borax powder mixed with 1 cup of water. Stir until the slime forms.

5 Easy Ways to Make Slime Without Activator

5 Easy Ways to Activate Slime

Have you ever wanted to create your own slime without activator? Making slime without activator is a fun and easy process that can be done with ingredients you likely already have on hand. I am here to share my knowledge and expertise in crafting slime without any need for activators. Whether you’re a seasoned slime enthusiast or a curious beginner, this comprehensive guide will empower you to create vibrant, stretchy slime with ease. Let’s dive right in and explore the fascinating world of slime-making!

To begin your slime-making adventure without activator, you’ll need a few essential ingredients: clear glue, water, food coloring (optional), and baking soda. Clear glue serves as the base of your slime, while water helps to thin it out and achieve the desired consistency. If you wish to add a pop of color, food coloring can be incorporated to create vibrant hues. Finally, baking soda plays a crucial role in activating the slime-forming process, allowing you to create stretchy, satisfying slime without the need for traditional activators like borax or contact lens solution.

Now that you have gathered your ingredients, let’s embark on the exciting slime-making process! In a spacious bowl, combine equal parts clear glue and water. Stir thoroughly until the mixture is well combined and free of lumps. Add a few drops of food coloring, if desired, and mix until the color is evenly distributed. Now, it’s time to introduce the magic ingredient: baking soda. Gradually add small amounts of baking soda to the glue mixture, stirring constantly. As you add the baking soda, you’ll notice the mixture begin to thicken and become more viscous. Continue adding baking soda until the slime reaches your desired consistency – stretchy, pliable, and oh-so-satisfying! And just like that, you’ve created your very own slime without activator. Congratulations, slime master!

No Glue, No Borax Slime

This variation requires only a few simple ingredients: water, cornstarch, and food coloring (optional). To make this slime, mix 1 cup of cornstarch with 1/2 cup of water in a bowl. If desired, add a few drops of food coloring and mix well. This slime has a soft and squishy texture, similar to traditional slime made with glue.

Fluffy Slime

Fluffy slime is made with a mixture of shaving cream, glue, and baking soda. To make this slime, combine 1 cup of shaving cream with 1/2 cup of white glue in a bowl. Add 1 teaspoon of baking soda and mix until the slime becomes fluffy and thick. This slime has a soft and airy texture that is both fun to play with and visually appealing.

Clear Slime

Clear slime is made with clear glue instead of white glue. To make this slime, combine 1 cup of clear glue with 1/2 teaspoon of borax in a bowl. Mix well until the slime forms. This slime has a transparent and glossy appearance, making it perfect for creating slime-filled containers or other craft projects.

Glow-in-the-Dark Slime

Glow-in-the-dark slime is made by adding glow-in-the-dark powder to the glue mixture. To make this slime, combine 1 cup of white glue with 1/2 teaspoon of borax in a bowl. Add a few drops of glow-in-the-dark powder and mix well. This slime will glow in the dark, making it a fun and exciting sensory experience.

Magnetic Slime

Magnetic slime is made by adding iron oxide powder to the glue mixture. To make this slime, combine 1 cup of white glue with 1/2 teaspoon of borax in a bowl. Add a few drops of iron oxide powder and mix well. This slime will be attracted to magnets, allowing for a variety of slime-based science experiments and creative play.

Variations and Creative Uses of Slime Made Without Activator

Sensory Playdough

Slime without activator can be used as a sensory playdough for young children. Its soft and pliable texture encourages tactile exploration and creativity. It can be molded into various shapes, providing opportunities for fine motor development and imagination play.

Fidget Toy

Slime without activator can serve as a fidget toy for those who need to release stress or anxiety. Its squishy and pliable nature provides a calming and tactile stimulation that can help reduce fidgeting and improve focus.

Art and Craft Projects

Slime without activator can be incorporated into various art and craft projects. It can be used to create slime-filled containers, slime sculptures, or slime-based paintings. Its vibrant colors and unique texture add a touch of creativity and fun to artistic endeavors.

Troubleshooting Common Issues with Activator-Less Slime

Slime is Sticky

If your slime is sticky, it means that it has too much liquid. To fix this, try adding more cornstarch or baking soda.

Slime is Runny

If your slime is runny, it means that it has too little liquid. To fix this, try adding more water or glue.

Slime is Lumpy

If your slime is lumpy, it means that the ingredients have not been mixed well. To fix this, try kneading the slime for a longer period of time.

Slime is Hard

If your slime is hard, it means that it has too much cornstarch or baking soda. To fix this, try adding more water or glue.

Slime is Breaking Apart

If your slime is breaking apart, it means that it has not been mixed well or that it has been overplayed with. To fix this, try kneading the slime for a longer period of time or try adding more water or glue.

Slime is Too Thick

If your slime is too thick, it means that it has too much cornstarch or baking soda. To fix this, try adding more water or glue.

Troubleshooting Table

Problem Solution
Slime is sticky Add more cornstarch or baking soda
Slime is runny Add more water or glue
Slime is lumpy Knead the slime for a longer period of time
Slime is hard Add more water or glue
Slime is breaking apart Knead the slime for a longer period of time or add more water or glue
Slime is too thick Add more water or glue

How to Make Slime Without Activator

If you’re looking for a fun and easy way to make slime, you don’t need any fancy ingredients or activators! You can make slime using clear glue, baking soda, and saline solution. The baking soda will help to neutralize the acidity of the glue, and the saline solution will help to thicken the mixture and make it more slime-like.

To make slime without activator, you will need:

  • 1 cup of clear glue
  • 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda
  • 1/4 cup of saline solution
  • Food coloring (optional)
  • Glitter (optional)

Instructions:

  1. In a large bowl, combine the glue and baking soda. Stir until the baking soda is completely dissolved.
  2. Add the saline solution to the glue mixture and stir until the slime begins to form. You may need to add more saline solution until the slime reaches the desired consistency.
  3. Add food coloring and/or glitter, if desired.
  4. Knead the slime until it is smooth and elastic.
  5. Store the slime in an airtight container.

People Also Ask about How To Make Slime No Activator

Is it possible to make slime without activator?

Yes, you can make slime using clear glue, baking soda, and saline solution without using activators.

What is the best way to make slime without activator?

The best way to make slime without activator is to use the recipe outlined in the post above.

How long will slime last without activator?

Slime made without activator will last for about 2-3 days if stored in an airtight container.

How To Make Slime With No Glue

Are you looking for a fun and easy way to make slime without glue? If so, you’re in luck! There are several ways to make slime without glue, and all of them are simple and affordable. In this article, we will show you how to make slime with no glue using three different methods. The first method uses borax powder, the second method uses baking soda, and the third method uses cornstarch. So what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients and let’s get started!

The first method for making slime without glue is to use borax powder. Borax powder is a white powder that can be found in the laundry aisle of most grocery stores. To make slime with borax powder, you will need the following ingredients:

  • 1 cup of clear school glue
  • 1/2 cup of water
  • 1 teaspoon of borax powder
  • Food coloring (optional)

First, add the glue and water to a bowl and stir until combined. Then, add the borax powder and stir until the mixture thickens and becomes slimy. If you want to add color to your slime, add a few drops of food coloring and stir until combined. Once your slime is the desired consistency, knead it for a few minutes until it is smooth and elastic. That’s it! You have now made slime without glue using borax powder.

Using Liquid Starch

Liquid starch is a common household item that can be used to make slime without glue. It is a non-toxic and inexpensive material that is safe for children to use. To make slime with liquid starch, you will need the following ingredients:

  • 1 cup liquid starch
  • 1/2 cup water
  • Food coloring (optional)
  • Glitter (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the liquid starch and water.
2. Add food coloring and glitter, if desired.
3. Stir until the mixture is well combined.
4. Knead the mixture with your hands until it forms a sticky ball.
5. If the slime is too sticky, add a little more water.
6. If the slime is too runny, add a little more liquid starch.

Your slime is now ready to play with! You can store it in an airtight container for up to a week.

Tips:

  • You can use any brand of liquid starch to make slime.
  • If you don’t have liquid starch, you can use corn starch instead.
  • To make your slime more glittery, add extra glitter to the mixture.
  • To make your slime more colorful, add different colors of food coloring to the mixture.
  • If your slime is too sticky, add a little bit of water to it.
  • If your slime is too runny, add a little bit of liquid starch or corn starch to it.

Troubleshooting:

Problem Solution
Slime is too sticky Add a little bit of water.
Slime is too runny Add a little bit of liquid starch or corn starch.
Slime is too clumpy Knead the slime for longer until it becomes smooth.
Slime is too hard Add a little bit of water.

Using Borax

Step 1: Materials

Gather the following materials:

  • 1 cup of clear liquid starch
  • 1 tablespoon of borax powder
  • 1-2 drops of food coloring (optional)
  • 1 mixing bowl
  • 1 mixing spoon
  • Gloves (optional)

Step 2: Mixing the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, pour in the cup of liquid starch. Add the food coloring if desired. Stir until well combined.

In a separate bowl, dissolve the borax powder in a little warm water.

Slowly add the borax solution to the liquid starch mixture, stirring continuously. Do not add too much at once, as this can make the slime too firm.

As you stir, the liquid starch and borax will react and form slime. The consistency of the slime will depend on the amount of borax you add. If the slime is too liquid, add more borax. If it is too firm, add more liquid starch.

Once you are happy with the consistency, remove the slime from the bowl and knead it by hand. This will help to remove any excess moisture and make the slime more uniform.

Using Baking Soda

Baking soda is a versatile substance that can be used in a variety of household applications, including making slime. The resulting slime is soft, pliable, and non-toxic, making it a great activity for children of all ages.

To make slime with baking soda, you will need the following ingredients:

Ingredient Amount
All-purpose flour 1 cup
Baking soda 1/2 cup
Water 1/2 cup plus 1 tablespoon
Food coloring (optional) A few drops
Glitter (optional) A few sprinkles

Once you have gathered your ingredients, follow these steps to make your slime:

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour and baking soda.
2. Gradually add the water, one tablespoon at a time, until the mixture forms a thick paste.
3. If the slime is too sticky, add more flour, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches the desired consistency. If the slime is too dry, add more water, one teaspoon at a time, until it becomes pliable.
4. Add food coloring or glitter, if desired.
5. Knead the slime for a few minutes until it is smooth and elastic.
6. Store the slime in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.

Using Dish Soap

Dish soap is a common household item that can be used to make slime without glue. The process is relatively simple and only requires a few ingredients.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup of dish soap
  • 1/2 cup of water
  • 1 teaspoon of salt
  • Food coloring (optional)

Instructions:

  1. In a bowl, combine the dish soap, water, and salt. Stir until the ingredients are well combined.
  2. If desired, add food coloring and stir until the slime reaches the desired color.
  3. Knead the slime for several minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
  4. Store the slime in an airtight container.

Tips:

  • If the slime is too sticky, add more water 1 teaspoon at a time until it reaches the desired consistency.
  • If the slime is too runny, add more salt 1/4 teaspoon at a time until it reaches the desired consistency.
  • Experiment with different types of dish soap to create different colors and scents of slime.

Variations:

| Dish Soap | Color | Scent |
|—|—|—|
| Dawn Ultra | Blue | Citrus |
| Palmolive Original | Green | Fresh |
| Ivory Dishwashing Liquid | White | Unscented |

Using Castile Soap

Castile soap is a natural, plant-based soap that is gentle on the skin. It can also be used to make slime, without the need for glue. Here’s how to do it:

  1. In a large bowl, combine 1/2 cup of liquid castile soap, 1/2 cup of water, and 1/4 cup of cornstarch.
  2. Mix well until all of the ingredients are combined.
  3. Add food coloring, glitter, or other embellishments, if desired.
  4. Knead the slime until it reaches the desired consistency.
  5. Store the slime in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

Here is a table with some tips for making slime with castile soap:

Tip Description
Use a clear liquid castile soap. This will make the slime clear and allow the colors to be more vibrant.
Add cornstarch gradually. Too much cornstarch will make the slime stiff and crumbly.
Knead the slime well. This will help to develop the slime’s elasticity and prevent it from being sticky.
Store the slime in the refrigerator. This will help to keep the slime fresh and prevent it from molding.

Using Shaving Cream

Creating slime with shaving cream is a fun and simple alternative to using glue. Here’s a detailed guide:

Materials:

1. Shaving Cream

Use regular white shaving cream, avoiding any scented or colored varieties.

2. Baking Soda

The baking soda will help thicken and activate the slime.

3. Contact Lens Solution

The contact lens solution contains borate ions, which cross-link with the shaving cream to form slime.

4. Food Coloring (optional)

For colored slime, add a few drops of food coloring to your desired hue.

5. Mixing Bowl

Use a large bowl for mixing the ingredients.

6. Step-by-Step Instructions:

  • In the mixing bowl, add 1 cup of shaving cream.
  • Add 1/2 cup of baking soda and mix until thoroughly combined.
  • Gradually add 1/4 cup of contact lens solution, mixing constantly.
  • The mixture will begin to thicken and form a slime-like consistency.
  • Add food coloring if desired, mix well, and adjust the consistency by adding more shaving cream (for thicker slime) or contact lens solution (for thinner slime).
  • Once the desired consistency is achieved, knead the slime for a few minutes to make it smooth and pliable

Using Cornstarch

Cornstarch slime is a fun and easy way to make slime without glue. It’s also a great way to use up leftover cornstarch. To make cornstarch slime, you will need the following ingredients:

– 1 cup cornstarch
– ½ cup water
– Food coloring (optional)
– Glitter (optional)

Instructions:

  1. In a large bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and water until there are no lumps.
  2. Add food coloring and/or glitter, if desired.
  3. Microwave the mixture on high for 30 seconds.
  4. Stir the mixture until it is smooth and thick.
  5. Let the mixture cool for a few minutes.
  6. Once the mixture is cool, knead it with your hands until it forms a smooth, elastic ball.
  7. Additional Tips for Making Cornstarch Slime:

– If the slime is too sticky, add more cornstarch. If it’s too stiff, add more water.

– To make your slime more colorful, add food coloring before microwaving. You can also add glitter for a sparkly effect.

– If you don’t have a microwave, you can make cornstarch slime on the stovetop. Just heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens.

– Cornstarch slime is not edible. Please do not eat it.

Ingredient Amount
Cornstarch 1 cup
Water ½ cup
Food coloring (optional) A few drops
Glitter (optional) A few tablespoons

Using Hair Conditioner

Hair conditioner can be used as a substitute for glue in slime recipes. It creates a similar slimy texture, but it is less sticky and easier to work with. To make slime using hair conditioner, you will need:

  • 1 cup of hair conditioner
  • 1/2 cup of water
  • Food coloring (optional)
  • Glitter (optional)

Instructions:

  1. In a large bowl, combine the hair conditioner and water. Stir until well mixed.
  2. Add food coloring and/or glitter, if desired. Stir until the desired color and consistency is achieved.
  3. Play with your slime! It will be less sticky than traditional slime made with glue.

Tips for Making Slime with Hair Conditioner

  • Use a thick hair conditioner for best results. Thicker conditioners will create a more slimy texture.
  • If your slime is too sticky, add a little more water. If it is too runny, add a little more hair conditioner.
  • Store your slime in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will last for several days.
  • If your slime starts to get moldy, throw it away and make a new batch.

Troubleshooting Slime Made with Hair Conditioner

Problem Solution
Slime is too sticky Add more water.
Slime is too runny Add more hair conditioner.
Slime is moldy Throw it away and make a new batch.

Using Toothpaste

Materials:

  • 1/2 cup white toothpaste
  • 1/4 cup baking soda
  • 1/4 cup cornstarch
  • Food coloring (optional)
  • Mixing bowl
  • Spoon or spatula

9. How to Make it:

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the toothpaste, baking soda, and cornstarch. Stir until well mixed.
  2. Gradually add food coloring (if desired), stirring until the desired color is achieved.
  3. Knead the mixture with your hands for several minutes, until it becomes stretchy and less sticky. If the slime is too sticky, add more cornstarch in small increments until it reaches the desired consistency.
  4. Play with your toothpaste slime! Stretch it, bounce it, or mold it into any shape you like. When you’re done playing, store the slime in an airtight container at room temperature.

Tips:

  • For a more colorful slime, use a variety of food coloring gels or liquids.
  • To make glitter slime, add a sprinkle of fine glitter to the mixture.
  • To make scented slime, add a few drops of essential oil or fragrance to the mixture.
  • If the slime becomes too dry or crumbly, add a small amount of water and knead until it becomes smooth again.

Using Guar Gum

Guar gum is a natural polysaccharide that is derived from the guar bean. It is a white to cream-colored powder that is odorless and tasteless.
Guar gum is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of food and cosmetic applications, including as a thickener, stabilizer, and emulsifier.

To make slime with guar gum, you will need the following ingredients:

  1. 1 cup water
  2. 1/4 cup guar gum powder
  3. Food coloring (optional)
  4. Glitter (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the water and guar gum powder until the guar gum is completely dissolved.
2. Add the food coloring and glitter, if desired, and stir until well combined.
3. Allow the mixture to sit for 5-10 minutes, or until it has thickened to the desired consistency. If the slime is too thick, add a little more water. If the slime is too thin, add a little more guar gum powder.
4. Knead the slime for a few minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
5. Store the slime in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

How To Make Slime Without Glue

Who says you need glue to make slime? Though it is a common ingredient in most slime recipes, it’s certainly not a necessity. In fact, there are a number of ways to make slime without glue that are just as fun and satisfying. Here are two of the most popular methods:

Method 1: With Borax and Starch

  1. In a bowl, whisk together 1 cup of clear liquid starch, 1/2 cup of water, and 1 teaspoon of borax powder.
  2. Stir until the mixture thickens and becomes slimy.
  3. Knead the slime until it is smooth and elastic.

Method 2: With Flour and Water

  1. In a bowl, whisk together 1 cup of all-purpose flour and 1 cup of water.
  2. Stir until the mixture thickens and becomes doughy.
  3. Knead the dough until it is smooth and elastic.

Once you’ve made your slime, you can add any desired color or scent. You can also add glitter, beads, or other embellishments to make it more unique. Slime is a great way to relieve stress, have fun, and be creative. So next time you’re looking for a fun and easy activity, try making slime without glue!

People Also Ask About How To Make Slime With No Glue

What is the best way to make slime without glue?

The best way to make slime without glue is to use either borax and starch or flour and water. Both methods are simple and produce great results. However, if you’re looking for a slime that is more stretchy and durable, we recommend using the borax and starch method.

What can I use instead of glue to make slime?

There are a number of different ingredients you can use instead of glue to make slime, including:

  • Borax
  • Starch
  • Flour
  • Liquid starch
  • Guar gum
  • Xanthan gum

How do I make slime without glue and borax?

If you don’t have borax, you can make slime without it using flour and water. Simply follow the steps in the “Method 2: With Flour and Water” section above.

3 Easy Ways to Make Slime with Shampoo, Salt, and More

5 Easy Ways to Activate Slime

In the realm of DIY beauty concoctions, slime shampoo and salt reign supreme as captivating and intriguing creations. These concoctions fuse the slimy texture of slime with the cleansing properties of shampoo and the exfoliating benefits of salt, offering a unique and immersive experience for both the senses and your hair’s health. Whether you seek to invigorate your scalp, revitalize your locks, or simply indulge in a playful and sensory adventure, these DIY wonders await your exploration.

To craft your own slime shampoo, gather a clear shampoo base, food coloring, glitter (optional), baking soda, and slime activator (contact lens solution or borax). Commence by pouring a generous amount of shampoo into a bowl and adding a few drops of food coloring. For a touch of sparkle, sprinkle in some glitter. In a separate bowl, dissolve baking soda in water and add it to the shampoo mixture. Finally, stir in the slime activator until the desired slimy consistency is achieved. Use your slime shampoo as you would a regular shampoo, massaging it into your scalp and rinsing thoroughly.

For a revitalizing salt scrub, combine coarse sea salt with a blend of essential oils such as peppermint, rosemary, or lavender. The grainy texture of the salt will gently exfoliate your scalp, removing dead skin cells and promoting circulation. The invigorating aroma of the essential oils will awaken your senses and revitalize your mood. To use your salt scrub, massage it into your scalp with gentle circular motions. Leave it on for a few minutes to allow the oils to penetrate, then rinse thoroughly. Follow up with your regular conditioner for added nourishment and shine.

How to Make Slime Shampoo and Salt

Slime shampoo is a fun and easy way to add some extra fun to your hair care routine. It’s also a great way to get rid of product buildup and dirt. Plus, it’s cheap and easy to make at home.

To make slime shampoo, you will need:

  • 1 cup of clear shampoo
  • 1/2 cup of salt
  • Food coloring (optional)
  • Glitter (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the shampoo and salt. Stir until the salt is completely dissolved.

2. If desired, add food coloring and glitter. Stir until the desired color and consistency is reached.

3. Pour the slime shampoo into a squeeze bottle or container. To use, simply apply a small amount to your hair and massage it into a lather. Rinse thoroughly.

People Also Ask

What are the benefits of using slime shampoo?

Slime shampoo can help to remove product buildup and dirt from your hair. It can also help to add volume and shine to your hair. Plus, it’s a fun and easy way to add some extra fun to your hair care routine.

Is slime shampoo safe for all hair types?

Yes, slime shampoo is safe for all hair types. However, if you have dry or damaged hair, you may want to use a conditioner after using slime shampoo.

How often can I use slime shampoo?

You can use slime shampoo as often as you like. However, if you have dry or damaged hair, you may want to limit your use to once or twice a week.