Polymer Clay Toxic?

Posted on 05. Apr, 2008 by Jenny in Craft Product Reviews, Polymer Clay

Ever since I was introduced to polymer clay, it’s been labeled as “non-toxic” and that’s been a major selling point for me. You can cure it in your home oven with no ill effects, your kids can use it, it’s appropriate for institutional use, it’s safe.

But is it?

Recently on one of my PC groups, one of the members – Jai – noticed that she was experiencing symptoms that included dizziness, skin irritation, and feelings of confusion or lethargy. You can read about it on her blog. Come to find out, polymer clay is really a form of Poly Vinyl Chloride, or PVC, and contains phthalates, which are present in many house hold items. But they are not considered risk-free.

The major concern with phthalates as been inhaling vapors, like during curing. However, there is some concern that you can also absorb phthalates through the skin. Yikes! Is my love affair with polymer clay over???

Well, there is good news and bad news. The good news is that not everyone is highly sensitive to phthalates, and few folks experience symptoms of toxicity like Jai. (She, by her own admission, has also had previous sensitivities.) And, lo and behold, many clay companies are voluntarily re-formulating their clays to remove phthalates entirely, and find new ways to soften their clays. (Kato clay has been reformulating, and the new version is due out soon.)

Bottom line: be mindful. Pay attention to what your body is telling you when you work with polymer clay. Read the label, and follow best practices to minimize your exposure to fumes.

For another look at the topic, read this down-to earth treatise on the subject Polymer Clay Central.

No fear, my friends, and happy claying!

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Tags: harmful effects of working with polymer clay, phthlates, polymer clay, polymer clay toxicity

5 Responses to “Polymer Clay Toxic?”

Cindy Lietz, Polymer Clay Tutor

05. Apr, 2008

There has been a fair amount of chit-chat on the topic of phthalates in the polymer clay industry. Personally I have not had any reactions to polymer clay but like anyone, want the product to be safe for everyone. I applaud Donna Kato for reformulating her Kato Clay so quickly in response to customer’s concerns. I am looking forward to trying her new clay when it comes out!
Katie

08. Feb, 2009

Yeah I was in love with polymer clay but now that I know the risks that it has to both our health and the environment I’ve decided to stop using it. It just gives me a reason to find another substance to be creative with.
Jenny

09. Feb, 2009

I’m not sure what environmental and health risks you are referring to…and far as what I’ve read, the jury is out on the fumes released while curing…so don’t be afraid to be creative with clay. It is certified non-toxic, remember.
Matt

31. Jul, 2009

From all the research I have read, there has been many tests done with polymer clay and the majority of the safety concerns is heating clay to blackening or burning. Burning the clay at temperature higher than 350 degrees will release the fumes that irritate your eyes and mucus membranes. The concerns about using a home oven stem from this, but it is in cases where fragments/pieces of polymer clay from your projects may still be in your oven (if not cleaned regularly) when you bake foods at normal temperatures that are above 350 degrees.
denise

03. Mar, 2010

I would be careful as the same plasticizers are also absorbed by the skin and can carry carcineogins and endocrine disrupters….there may be long term effects that are not recognizable until some other event enhances them….just because your not running to the hospital initially …doesn’t mean that it doen’t cause reactions that for some other folks who are chemically sensitive,have auto immune issues or known hereditary cancers …these chemicals may pose an issue

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Polymer Clay Toxic?

5 Responses to “Polymer Clay Toxic?”

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