'Gunge' is something of a generic term for mess, but in the WAM world it is understood to mean viscous pouring liquid which is all made by mixing powder into water and is usually coloured. It is very often seen used in gameshows, also referred to as gunk to create the rhyming 'gunk dunk'. Gunge flows well from overhead containers, usually sticks to and pours over the victim pretty well, and different colours can be poured simultanously without mixing too easily, creating stunning visual effects.

The main substances used to create gunge are Natrosol, methylcelulose and xanthan gum. These are sold in powder form and can be mixed with water quite easily. Each has subtle differences in the thickness, opacity and texture, with Natrosol generally more homogenous and the other types forming small 'strings' and beads when poured. Gunge is relatively easy to clean up and usually should be able to be washed out of clothes with no damage.