Which squishies are harmful in addition to those listed above? Even though many manufacturers claim that their balls are non-toxic, the contents of the balls may stain garments and may be dangerous if swallowed in large quantities. Gel stress balls are not known to rupture readily, although it is possible for one to shatter under strong pressure or after frequent usage over a period of time. Is the liquid contained inside squishy balls harmful in this regard? They will not stain or leave a greasy residue on the hands after use.
“The testing to determine safe doses of chemicals in products is not adequate to account for all the ways that products are used and how they are combined in real life.These squishable stress balls are non-toxic, making them suitable for use by youngsters. They just restrict usage and dosage for certain products – this is where all the controversy lies,” she said. “Australia rarely actually bans chemicals. Rachael Wakefield-Rann said often products are allowed on the Australian market before testing is conducted on all of their chemical ingredients to determine whether there are any long-term health risks. it is entirely possible that improper manufacture could result in higher levels of leftover solvents and reactants in the squishies.”ĭr Musgrave said the Danish report makes no reference to a particular manufacturer, which makes it unclear whether the toys sold in Australian stores contain these same chemicals. “Studies on polyurethane foams show that emissions of hazardous materials are well below safety thresholds. “It is possible that some unreacted toluene could be left over, as well as some of the solvents. Toluene is used as the starting point in one of the components of the foam (to make toluene diisocyanate), and dimethylformamide can possibly be used as a solvent in the process,” he told The New Daily. “The squishies are supposed to be manufactured with polyurethane foam.
Toxicologist Dr Ian Musgrave of the University of Adelaide said the severity of these effects would depend on a child’s level of exposure to these chemicals. Photo: Smiggleĭimethylformamide has been shown to increase the risk of liver disease in animal studies as well as dermatitis.
A Danish test found that squishies emit high levels of ‘dangerous’ chemicals. Toluene has been linked to impaired fertility and can affect the nervous system (dizziness, headaches). Some research has also claimed it poses carcinogenic risks. Styrene exposure has been found to be associated with lung disease, eye irritation and respiratory issues. Health impacts – according to the research Styrene is used to make latex, synthetic rubber and polystyrene beads found in plastic packaging and disposable cups.ĭimethylformamide (DMF) has been found to cause liver damage in animal studies.ĭMF is used to produce acrylic fibres, plastics, pesticides, adhesives, synthetic leathers and surface coatings. It is also essential in making the explosive compound known as TNT.
Toluene is used to make paint thinners, nail polish remover, glues and liquid paper correction fluid. Where are these chemicals commonly found? The identified chemicals include dimethylformamide, styrene and toluene. The report claimed that children who sleep with their squishies or have several of the toys in their bedroom are at “high risk”.ĭespite these findings and Australian parents expressing safety concerns, Smiggle, Kmart, Target and Big W have shown no indication they will be pulling the products from shelves. An investigation by the Danish government revealed that all toys tested emitted “high levels” of harmful chemicals.
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