What is the science behind the Rain Cloud in a Jar?

The Rain Cloud in a Jar is a simple way to show kids how real rain works! In the experiment, the shaving cream represents a fluffy cloud, and the colored water acts like moisture in the atmosphere. As the “cloud” fills up with water, it becomes too heavy—just like real clouds do—and the “rain” falls down into the jar. It’s a hands-on way to teach young learners about precipitation and cloud saturation through magical, visual science!

How do you make a cloud in a jar science experiment?

Making your own cloud in a jar is easy and fun! Just fill a clear glass jar about ¾ full with water. Spray a generous layer of shaving cream on top—that’s your cloud. Then mix a few drops of food coloring with water in a separate cup. Using a dropper or spoon, slowly drip the colored water onto the shaving cream cloud. Soon, you’ll see the color seep through the “cloud” and fall like rain. That’s your very own Rain Cloud in a Jar !

How do you make it rain in a glass jar?

To make it rain in a glass jar , you simulate what happens in the sky. Fill the jar with water (representing the atmosphere), add a layer of shaving cream on top (your cloud), and drip colored water on top of the cream. As more water is added, it builds up and eventually becomes too heavy—just like in real clouds. Then, the colored water breaks through and falls like rain. It’s an easy way to show how gravity and condensation lead to rainfall.

Can you capture clouds in a jar?

While you can’t capture a real cloud, you can recreate the concept of how clouds work right inside a jar! The Rain Cloud in a Jar experiment uses shaving cream to act like a cloud and colored water to mimic moisture. It's a creative way to help kids visualize what happens above their heads when rain forms. So while it’s not a real cloud, it’s a magical science moment they’ll never forget!

Magical Science - Rain Cloud In A Jar For Curious Kids

Description

A hands-on science experiment that teaches kids how rain forms—using water, shaving cream, and food coloring. A fun, visual STEM activity that feels like magic!

Ingredients

Scale

1 clear glass jar or cup (the wider, the better)
as needed shaving cream (not gel)
¾ jar plain water (to fill the jar)
a few drops food coloring (blue is classic, but any color works)
2–4 small cups or bowls (for mixing colored water)
1 dropper or pipette (a spoon or straw also works)
1 towel (optional, for spills)
1 camera (optional, for capturing smiles)

Instructions

Fill your glass jar about ¾ full with plain water. This represents the atmosphere.
Spray a fluffy cloud of shaving cream on top of the water. It should puff up above the rim—this is your cloud.
In small bowls, mix food coloring with a little water. You can use one color or create multiples.
Using a dropper (or spoon/straw), slowly drip the colored water onto the shaving cream cloud.
Watch as the ‘cloud’ fills up—soon, the colored water will fall through into the jar like rain!

Notes

This experiment mimics how clouds become heavy with moisture and release rain. Dollar store supplies work great. No dropper? Use a spoon or straw. Mix food colors for a rainbow effect! Let kids repeat it—they’ll want to!

Prep Time: 5 minutes