Squishy Toy Safety: Hidden Risks in Popular fidget Trends
Those satisfyingly squishy fidget toys-loved by kids adn adults alike for stress relief-may pose hidden dangers. A recent inquiry by Consumer reports (CR) reveals some popular brands can break easily, and the gel inside could irritate skin or even cause chemical burns. this article dives deep into the findings, offering crucial safety advice to protect you and yoru family.
The Growing Concern: Breakage and Skin Reactions
Brightly colored and marketed as calming sensory tools, these squishy balls are ubiquitous. However, a troubling trend is emerging. Hundreds of one-star reviews on platforms like Amazon report toys “popping” or breaking within hours of use.
Parents are increasingly reporting adverse reactions.Many describe red, irritated, or peeling skin after contact with the gel leaking from broken toys. More serious incidents, including reports of chemical-burn-like injuries, have been filed with the federal SaferProducts.gov database.
What’s Inside? A Lack of Transparency
One of the biggest concerns is the mystery surrounding the gel’s composition. Companies aren’t required to disclose the ingredients used in these toys, leaving consumers in the dark. To address this, CR scientists purchased and tested eight popular squishy toys.
Their analysis focused on pH levels, a measure of acidity. Seven toys registered a neutral pH. However, one-the Nee-Doh “Groovy Glob”-showed a pH of 2, comparable to lemon juice or vinegar. This level of acidity raises meaningful concerns about potential chemical burns, notably on sensitive skin.
Manufacturer Response & Ongoing investigation
Schylling,the maker of Nee-Doh,disputes CR’s pH testing results. They state the inner gel consists of polyvinyl alcohol, considered safe for skin contact. The company also notes that, despite selling over 100 million Nee-Doh toys, only four incidents have been reported to the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC).
Consumer Reports stands by it’s findings and continues to investigate. The CPSC has been notified and is monitoring the situation.
The Danger of Microwaving: A Viral trend Gone Wrong
tiktok trends have fueled a perilous practice: microwaving squishy toys to make them softer. Never microwave or freeze these toys. CR’s testing revealed some toys exploded after just 15 seconds in the microwave, reaching temperatures exceeding 200°F. At this temperature, instant burns are highly likely.
Protect Your Family: Essential Safety Tips
You can help ensure your child’s safety by following these guidelines:
* Never microwave or freeze: These actions can cause the toy to rupture and potentially burn your child.
* Avoid leaving in hot cars: Extreme temperatures can compromise the toy’s integrity.
* Not for babies or toddlers: These young children are more susceptible to skin irritation and may put the toy in their mouths.
* Immediate action if breakage occurs: If a toy breaks and the gel comes into contact with your child’s skin,wash the area thoroughly with soap and water. Discard the toy immediately.
* Supervise playtime: While not a guarantee, supervision can definitely help identify and address potential issues quickly.
Know the Risks, Stay Informed
Squishy toys can provide harmless fun, but awareness of these potential risks is crucial. Prioritize safety and take preventative measures to protect your children.
For a more detailed look at Consumer Reports’ investigation, including specific product testing data and responses from regulators, visit CR.org.
