In recent years, handmade DIY toys have become a global craze. Due to their rich colors and high plasticity, polymer clay beads have become a popular choice for children's craft classes and creative family activities. However, with the surge in market demand, controversy has gradually emerged regarding their safety.
Composition and Production of Polymer Clay Beads
The core raw material of polymer clay beads is PVC (polyvinyl chloride), which is made by adding plasticizers, pigments, and a small amount of stabilizers. Their safety depends on two key factors:
Raw Material Purity
Regular manufacturers use food-grade pigments and plasticizers that meet the EU EN71 standard. Finished products must pass GB6675, the "National Toy Safety Standard," testing to ensure the absence of harmful substances such as phthalates and heavy metals.
Processing
High-quality products are baked at low temperatures of 130-150°C to set their shape. This process solidifies harmful substances and reduces volatility. Low-quality clay, however, may decompose the plasticizer due to improper temperature control, producing a pungent odor. Long-term exposure may cause respiratory allergies in children.
Three Major Safety Hazards
Although compliant products are safe and controllable, the following three risks remain a concern:
Borax Contamination: The "Deadly Formula" of Crystal Clay
Some vendors illegally add industrial borax (sodium tetraborate) to enhance the ductility of clay. Borax can enter the body through broken skin or ingestion, causing vomiting, diarrhea, and even multiple organ failure.
Small Magnetic Beads: The "Intestinal Perforation Risk" After Ingestion
Some decorative clay beads contain high-magnetic flux magnets. If children swallow two or more, the magnets may adhere to the intestines, causing intestinal obstruction or perforation.
Superabsorbent Resin Beads: The "Candy Trap" That Expands Hundredfold
Colored water-bead clay beads resemble candy but expand dozens of times their original size when exposed to water. If children accidentally ingest dry beads, they can cause intestinal blockage and require surgical removal.
Four Steps to Safe Purchasing
Check Certification Marks
Prefer products labeled with safety certifications such as "GB6675," "EN71," and "ASTM F963," and avoid products without these certifications. For example, a certain brand of clay beads clearly states "Compliant with EU REACH Regulation" on its packaging, allowing traceability of the raw material source.
Identify the Material by Smell
High-quality clay beads should have no pungent chemical odor. If a strong, glue-like odor is detected, it may contain excessive amounts of plasticizers or solvents.
Test Physical Properties
Gently pinch the clay beads with your fingers. Qualified products should be soft, easy to shape, and retain their color. If the beads have a rough surface and are prone to breaking, they may have been treated with low-quality fillers.
Selecting the Suitable Age
Children under 3 years old should avoid using clay beads with small parts. Children over 6 years old should be supervised by an adult and the "No Intake" rule should be emphasized.
Recommendations for Scientific Use
Before working: Have children wear aprons and gloves to avoid contact between clay and skin wounds.
During working: Clean the work surface regularly to prevent clay debris from getting into food.
After working: Thoroughly clean hands with warm water and child-safe hand soap, especially under the nails.
Storing: Store unused clay in a sealed container in a cool, dark place to prevent plasticizer evaporation and brittleness.
Polymer clay beads themselves aren't inherently dangerous; their safety is highly dependent on production standards and usage practices. Parents should avoid the "lowest price first" mentality and prioritize brands with international safety certifications. They should also supervise children throughout their playtime to effectively avoid potential dangers associated with clay beads.