Squishy toys, including stress balls and novelty items, have become popular, but concerns exist regarding the liquid or gel contained inside them. Media reports have highlighted instances where ruptured toys caused injury, validating anxieties about safety. While many products use benign, non-toxic fillers, documented regulatory failures and improper manufacturing practices have led to risks. This necessitates a closer look at the composition of these materials and the potential health hazards they pose when a toy ruptures.
The Typical Composition of Squishy Toy Fillings
The liquids and gels inside squishy toys are often composed of materials intended to be safe and provide the desired tactile sensation. Common benign components include water, glycerin, corn syrup, or mineral oil, which are generally non-toxic in small amounts. Manufacturers also frequently use non-toxic polymers or gels to create the signature slow-rising or squishy texture.
Safety concerns arise when quality control fails or manufacturers use unauthorized, cheaper chemical substitutes. Some imported toys have contained high concentrations of industrial preservatives like methylisothiazolinone (MIT) or chloromethylisothiazolinone (CMIT/MIT) to prevent microbial growth in water-based fillers. Other chemicals used as stabilizers or solvents, such as high levels of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) like toluene, dimethylformamide (DMF), or formaldehyde, have also been detected. Excessive amounts of dyes and fragrances can also contribute to the chemical hazard.
Specific Health Risks Associated with the Liquid
When a squishy toy ruptures, exposure to the internal liquid can cause acute health problems depending on the chemical concentration and route of contact. Direct contact with the skin can result in severe reactions, including allergic contact dermatitis and chemical burns. Dermal exposure is often linked to high concentrations of preservatives like MIT/CMIT, which are known skin sensitizers, or to fillers that are highly acidic or alkaline.
If the liquid is accidentally splashed into the eyes, severe irritation and inflammation are immediate possibilities. The corrosive nature of some unauthorized chemical fillers can lead to serious injuries, including potential corneal damage that requires immediate medical attention. Ingestion poses the most significant systemic risk, especially if the substance contains unapproved chemicals like high levels of methanol or boric acid. Swallowing a toxic substance can lead to irritation of the throat and stomach lining, and in the worst cases, systemic toxicity affecting the liver or nervous system.
Safety Regulations and Oversight
The safety of toys sold in the United States is overseen by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). All children’s products must comply with the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act (CPSIA), which mandates adherence to standards like ASTM F963, the Standard Consumer Safety Specification for Toy Safety. This standard restricts the presence of corrosive substances, eye irritants, and heavy metals like lead and cadmium in liquids and gels.
Recalls occur when products fail to meet these mandatory safety specifications, such as when a liquid is found to be excessively irritating or contains prohibited chemicals. A major challenge remains the regulation of imported goods, particularly those sold through third-party online marketplaces, which may bypass the rigorous testing and certification processes required by the CPSC. Compliance failures, particularly from manufacturers operating outside of regular oversight, are the source of most documented injuries.
Emergency Response and Safe Handling
If a squishy toy breaks and the liquid contacts the skin, immediate and thorough rinsing is the most important first step. The affected area should be washed for at least 15 minutes with soap and running water to dilute and remove the chemical irritant. Monitor the area closely for signs of redness, blistering, or a burning sensation, and seek medical care if a rash or pain develops.
In the event of eye contact, immediately flush the eye with clean, lukewarm water for a minimum of 15 to 20 minutes to prevent severe irritation or chemical injury. Professional medical attention should be sought immediately following eye exposure, even if the initial irritation subsides.
If a child ingests any amount of the liquid, do not attempt to induce vomiting unless specifically instructed by a medical professional. Call the national Poison Control hotline, 1-800-222-1222, immediately for expert guidance, or contact emergency services (911) if the child shows severe symptoms like difficulty breathing or loss of consciousness. To prevent future incidents, consumers should inspect all liquid-filled toys regularly for signs of wear, punctures, or swelling, and immediately dispose of any damaged items. Choosing toys from reputable manufacturers that display compliance marks like the CPSC or ASTM F963 logo helps ensure the product has undergone necessary chemical safety testing. A strong, chemical, or sweet odor from a new toy can be a warning sign of high levels of volatile organic compounds and should prompt caution.