What's Happening?
Consumer Reports has issued a warning regarding popular squishy toys, which are often used as stress-relief tools for children. The investigation revealed that these toys can break open, exposing children to potentially
harmful substances that may cause skin irritation or chemical burns. The toys, which are marketed as calming sensory tools, have received numerous negative reviews on platforms like Amazon, with parents reporting that the toys often burst within hours of use. The gel inside some of these toys has been linked to severe skin irritation, prompting further investigation by Consumer Reports. Tests conducted on eight different squishy toys found that while most had a neutral pH, one toy, the Nee-Doh 'Groovy Glob,' had a pH level as acidic as lemon juice, raising concerns about its safety. The manufacturer, Schylling, disputes these findings, asserting that the gel is made of safe polyvinyl alcohol and noting minimal incident reports. Additionally, a TikTok trend encouraging users to microwave these toys has been identified as dangerous, as it can cause the toys to explode and reach temperatures that can cause burns.
Why It's Important?
The findings from Consumer Reports highlight significant safety concerns for parents and guardians who purchase these toys for their children. The potential for chemical burns and skin irritation poses a direct health risk, particularly to young children with sensitive skin. This issue underscores the need for greater transparency in product safety and ingredient disclosure, as manufacturers are not currently required to list the contents of these toys. The report also raises awareness about the influence of social media trends, such as microwaving toys, which can exacerbate safety risks. The situation calls for increased vigilance from both consumers and regulatory bodies to ensure children's products are safe and free from harmful substances.
What's Next?
In response to these findings, parents are advised to exercise caution when purchasing squishy toys and to avoid exposing them to extreme temperatures. Consumer Reports recommends that any toy that breaks should be discarded immediately, and any gel that comes into contact with skin should be washed off promptly. The report may prompt further scrutiny from regulatory agencies like the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), which could lead to stricter safety standards and labeling requirements for children's toys. Manufacturers may also face pressure to improve product safety and transparency to maintain consumer trust.
