Are you in the market for some sensory play sand, but unsure which type to choose? Look no further! In this post, we’ll be comparing Moon Sand vs Kinetic Sand – two popular options on the market. Both promise hours of fun for kids (and adults!) and are designed to help with motor skills and creativity. But which one comes out on top? Let’s find out!
What is moon sand?
Moon sand is an interesting material that has many unique properties. It is a type of sand that is often used in children’s play areas because it is very fine and soft. Moon sand is also non-toxic and hypoallergenic, which makes it safe for children to play with.
Moon sand is made from ground-up moon rocks. The sand is then sifted to create a very fine grain. This type of sand is often used in sandbox toys because it holds its shape well and doesn’t get slippery when wet like regular sand can. Moon sand can be molded into any shape and doesn’t lose its form easily, which makes it ideal for building and sculpting.
One of the downsides to moon sand is that it can be messy. The tiny grains tend to stick to everything they come into contact with, including clothes, carpets, and furniture. And once the moon’s sand gets wet, it can become very muddy and difficult to clean up. But overall, moon sand is a unique material that can provide hours of fun for kids (and adults!)
What is kinetic sand?
If you’ve never heard of kinetic sand, it’s a type of sand said to be “alive.” It moves and flows on its own, thanks to the addition of a special ingredient. That ingredient is usually silicone oil, which gives the sand its unique flowing properties. Kinetic sand is also non-toxic and safe for kids to play with.
Moon sand is similar to kinetic sand, but it doesn’t contain any silicone oil. Instead, Moon sand is made from a combination of regular sand and polymers. Polymers are long chains of molecules that can act like glue when they’re combined with water. When the water evaporates, the polymers help the sand stick together. That’s why Moon sand feels wet even when it’s dry to the touch.
Chart for Comparing Moon sand Vs Kinetic sand:
Here’s a comparison chart between Moon Sand and Kinetic Sand, based on factors such as color, texture, moldability, and other features:
| Factor | Moon Sand | Kinetic Sand |
|---|---|---|
| Color | Available in a limited range of colors, including white, blue, and pink. | Available in a wide range of colors, including red, blue, green, purple, and more. |
| Texture | More fine-grained and powdery, with a softer feel than Kinetic Sand. | Coarser and more granular than Moon Sand, with a slightly firmer feel. |
| Moldability | Less moldable than Kinetic Sand, with a tendency to crumble or break apart. | Highly moldable, with the ability to hold shapes and structures. |
| Cleanliness | Can be messy and prone to sticking to surfaces, making clean-up more difficult. | Less messy than Moon Sand, with a tendency to stick to itself rather than other surfaces. |
| Durability | Can dry out and become hard over time, reducing its lifespan. | Resistant to drying out and can last for years with proper storage. |
| Sensory Experience | A softer texture and more powdery feel may be more appealing to some users. | Coarser texture and the ability to hold shapes may provide a more satisfying tactile experience. |
Overall, Kinetic Sand tends to be more versatile and durable, with a wider range of colors and a firmer texture that allows for more intricate molding and sculpting. However, Moon Sand may be preferred by some users for its softer feel and powdery texture. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences and intended use.
DIY Moon Sand
Here is a simple DIY Moon Sand recipe:
Ingredients:
- 8 cups of all-purpose flour
- 1 cup of baby oil
- Food coloring (optional)
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, mix the flour and baby oil together until well combined. You can also add a few drops of food coloring at this stage if you want colored Moon Sand.
- Use your hands to knead the mixture until it has a sandy texture and holds its shape when squeezed.
- Store the Moon Sand in an airtight container or resealable bag.
Note: You can adjust the quantities of flour and baby oil to get the desired consistency and texture. If you find the Moon Sand to be too dry, you can add a bit more baby oil. If it is too oily, you can add more flour.
Also, be aware that Moon Sand can be messy and may leave a residue on surfaces, so it’s a good idea to play with it on a covered surface or in a sensory bin.
DIY Kinetic Sand
Here is a simple DIY Kinetic Sand Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 3 cups of fine sand
- 1.5 cups of cornstarch
- 1/2 tsp of dish soap
- Food coloring (optional)
- Water
Instructions:
- Mix the sand and cornstarch together in a large bowl until well combined.
- Mix the dish soap and a few drops of food coloring (if using).
- Slowly pour the dish soap mixture into the sand mixture, stirring continuously.
- Add water a little at a time, stirring until the mixture becomes the consistency of wet sand.
- Play with your homemade Kinetic Sand and store it in an airtight container when not in use.
Note: For both recipes, you can adjust the quantities of the ingredients to get the desired consistency and texture. Additionally, you may want to protect your work surface with a plastic sheet or similar material to make clean-up easier.
Are Kinetic sand and Moon sand the same?
Kinetic Sand and Moon Sand are similar types of play sand, but they are not exactly the same.
Kinetic Sand is a trademarked brand of play sand that is made from 98% sand and 2% silica oil. The oil makes the sand feel like it is constantly in motion and allows it to hold its shape when molded. Kinetic Sand is known for its ability to stick to itself, but not to other surfaces, which makes it less messy than some other types of play sand.
Moon Sand is another type of play sand that is made from a mixture of sand and cornstarch. Moon Sand has a softer and more powdery texture than Kinetic Sand, and it is less moldable. However, it is also less likely to dry out over time and can be stored for longer periods.
Both Kinetic Sand and Moon Sand are great options for sensory play and can provide hours of entertainment for children and adults alike. However, they have different textures and properties that may make them better suited for different types of play activities or personal preferences.
Which is better?
If you’re trying to decide between moon sand and kinetic sand, there are a few things to consider. Moon sand is finer and less sticky than kinetic sand, so it’s less likely to get stuck in crevices and harder to mold. However, kinetic sand is more versatile because it can be used for both indoor and outdoor play. It’s also more affordable. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference.
Faq
Are they both safe for kids to play with?
Yes, both Moon Sand and Kinetic Sand are safe for kids to play with. However, they should not be ingested and should be kept away from eyes and mouths. Adult supervision is recommended for young children.
Can Moon Sand and Kinetic Sand be mixed together?
Yes, they can be mixed together, but the resulting texture and properties may not be ideal. Mixing the two sands may result in a texture that is too soft and crumbly or too stiff and hard to mold.
Can I reuse Moon Sand and Kinetic Sand?
Yes, both sands can be reused multiple times if stored properly in an airtight container or resealable bag. However, over time, Moon Sand may dry out and Kinetic Sand may lose its kinetic properties.
Are there any age restrictions for using Moon Sand and Kinetic Sand?
There are no specific age restrictions, but younger children may require more supervision due to the risk of ingestion or choking. It is recommended that children under the age of three do not play with small toys or objects that may be mistaken for food or candy.
Conclusion
Both moon sand and kinetic sand offer unique play experiences for children of all ages. While moon sand offers a classic moldable form with no mess, kinetic sand has the advantage of being sticky and malleable while still staying clean. Ultimately, it depends on your needs and preferences as to which type of sand is better for you. Whichever one you choose, it’s sure to bring lots of fun and learning opportunities!
To Learn How Does Kinetic Sand Work? Click this Link.
