Maya Ellison
Barbie dolls have been made with a variety of plastics since their creation in 1959. Early dolls were made almost exclusively of polyvinyl chloride (PVC), but over time, Barbie dolls have become more complex, with different types of plastics being used for different body parts. Today, Barbie dolls are made with a mix of plastics, including acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) torsos, ethylene vinyl acetate arms, and heads and outer legs made of PVC, although the formula has changed over the years. With concerns about the environmental impact of plastic and the potential toxicity of old Barbies, Mattel launched a range of Barbies made from recycled plastics in 2021.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Composition | Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) with phthalate-based plasticizers |
| Chemical Composition | Ethylene vinyl acetate arms, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene torsos, heads of a hard vinyl compound, and outer legs in PVC |
| Production | 60 million Barbie dolls are produced annually |
| Environmental Impact | Carbon dioxide emissions, plastic waste, and toxic chemicals |
| Health Concerns | Toxic chemicals, endocrine disruptors, and lead exposure |
| Changes in Production | Recycled plastics, reduced plasticizers, and diversification from PVC |
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What You'll Learn
Barbie's plastic body parts
To address the issues with PVC and meet evolving safety standards, Barbie's manufacturers began to diversify the materials used in different body parts. The torso, for instance, transitioned from low-density polyethylene in the 1970s to acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), the same plastic used in Lego bricks. The arms, which require more flexibility, are now made of ethylene-vinyl acetate, while the legs and head still retain PVC but with different plasticisers and at lower levels.
The shift away from PVC was influenced by health and safety concerns. Older PVC Barbies were found to contain toxic chemicals, including lead, which could be released over time and pose risks to children who chew on the dolls. Barbies made before 2007 are particularly flagged as potentially unsafe for kids due to the toxic chemicals used in their production.
In recent years, Mattel, the manufacturer of Barbie, has shown a commitment to sustainability. In 2021, they introduced a range of Barbies made from recycled plastics that would have otherwise become ocean waste. Additionally, each Barbie doll produced results in carbon dioxide emissions, contributing to environmental concerns associated with plastic waste. While there was excitement about a hoax claiming Barbie would go plastic-free by 2030, the future of Barbie may indeed move away from plastics towards more sustainable materials.
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The toxicity of old Barbies
The iconic Barbie doll has been a beloved toy for children for over six decades. However, the plastic composition of vintage Barbies has raised concerns about potential toxicity.
Early Barbies were primarily made of polyvinyl chloride (PVC), with phthalate-based plasticisers added to enhance flexibility and durability. Over time, these plasticisers can degrade, causing discolouration and a sticky texture on the doll's surface. More importantly, the degraded plastic may release toxic chemical compounds, posing health risks, especially to toddlers who tend to put objects in their mouths.
To address the potential toxicity of vintage Barbies, experts like Dr. Yvonne Shashoua recommend precautions such as wrapping the dolls in kitchen plastic wrap to prevent direct contact with the plastic body. Museums, where archived Barbies are cultural treasures, face challenges in preserving these ageing dolls.
The environmental impact of Barbie dolls extends beyond their plastic composition. The manufacturing process contributes to carbon emissions, and the complex mix of plastics, metals, and electronics complicates recycling. As a result, many discarded Barbies end up in landfills, adding to plastic waste.
To mitigate the environmental and health concerns associated with old Barbies, stakeholders must take collective action. Toy manufacturers should prioritise sustainability and eco-friendly practices, while governments can incentivise the use of low-carbon, recyclable materials. Consumers can also make a difference by opting for second-hand or recyclable toys and choosing plastic-free alternatives for children's experiences and parties.
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Barbie's plastic clothes and textiles
Barbie's plastic evolution has spanned decades, with significant changes in manufacturing occurring over time. The dolls are primarily made of plastic, with early iterations comprising mostly polyvinyl chloride (PVC) with phthalate-based plasticizers for flexibility and durability. However, due to degradation issues and safety concerns, Barbie's manufacturers had to reformulate their chemical composition.
Over time, Barbie's body parts evolved into a complex mix of different plastics. The arms, for instance, transitioned from PVC to low-density polyethylene or ethylene vinyl acetate in certain editions like Barbie #14 and #15 from 1974. Barbie's torsos also underwent changes, initially made from PVC, then shifting to LDPE and eventually ABS (acyrylonitrile butadiene styrene). The heads are crafted from a hard vinyl compound, while the outer legs retain PVC but with a modified formula.
Barbie's plastic skin, characteristic of the dolls, hasn't been exempt from deterioration. Discoloration and stickiness can occur over time, attributed to the degradation of phthalate-based plasticizers in PVC. This issue prompted German legislation in the late 1980s to limit the amount of plasticizer allowed in PVC toys for children's safety.
The impact of Barbie extends beyond the dolls themselves, influencing fashion trends and popular culture. "Barbiecore" has emerged as a fashion trend, embracing the aesthetics of neon, bright colours, shiny textures, artificial beauty, and symmetrical hairstyles. The release of the Barbie movie further fuelled this phenomenon, with people aspiring to replicate the perfect hair, makeup, and lifestyle associated with the Barbie world.
Barbie's plastic influence also extends to the textiles and clothing associated with the brand. Many of the mass-produced plastic fashion items linked to Barbie contribute to wastefulness and textile pollution, particularly in the Global South. This aspect of Barbie's legacy highlights the environmental and health consequences of plastic production and consumption.
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The process of making a Barbie
Barbie dolls are primarily made of plastic, specifically polyvinyl chloride (PVC). The process of making a Barbie involves a complex arrangement of various materials and production processes. Here is a step-by-step guide detailing the intricate process of crafting a Barbie doll:
Step 1: Inspiration and Design
The creation of a Barbie doll begins with inspiration, which can come from various sources such as vintage fabric, handbags, or even films. A team of designers, including illustrators, sketch and design Barbie's latest looks, creating around 100 new doll concepts annually. These concepts are developed in collaboration between Mattel's marketing department and the design team.
Step 2: Prototype Development
Once a concept is finalised, pattern makers create a muslin or mock-up pattern for Barbie's body. The design team then carefully hand-paints the lips, eyes, and makeup on the prototype, bringing it to life. Barbie's hair is then sewn on using a sewing machine before being cut and styled by hand.
Step 3: Finalising the Look
The beauty department, consisting of makeup artists and hairstylists, selects a skin tone from 13 shades and creates unique makeup colours for the doll. They ensure that Barbie's look, including her hair, dress, and makeup, is perfect before moving on to the next stage.
Step 4: Manufacturing and Assembly
Once the design is complete, the prototype is sent to Mattel's Hong Kong offices for the "execute phase." This phase involves pricing the doll, determining the manufacturing process, and setting a release date. Barbie's body parts are made using rotational moulding machines, which shape the PVC into the required form. The hair is attached to the head using a process called "rooting."
Step 5: Packaging and Release
Barbie is then carefully packaged, ensuring a smart pose that showcases her dress, hair, and makeup. The entire process, from concept to the final product on the shelf, can take anywhere from three to 18 months, depending on partner demands and production schedules. Finally, the dolls are shipped to stores, ready to be embraced by children and collectors alike.
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Barbie's recycled plastic range
Barbie dolls have been made with plastic since their creation in 1959. Over the years, Barbie dolls have been made with a complex mix of plastics, including polyvinyl chloride (PVC), acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), and ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA). While these plastics have improved the flexibility and durability of Barbie dolls, they have also raised concerns about the environmental impact and potential health risks associated with their use.
The recent release of the Barbie movie has sparked a renewed interest in the dolls, with a potential increase in demand contributing to waste quantities and carbon emissions. Additionally, the complex mixture of plastics in Barbie dolls makes them challenging to recycle, leading to wastefulness and environmental concerns.
In response to these issues, Mattel has introduced the Barbie Loves The Ocean line, which includes dolls and accessories made from 90% recycled ocean-bound plastic parts. This new range is a significant step towards a more sustainable future for the company and the toy industry. The colourful accessories in this range maintain the iconic Barbie aesthetic while incorporating sustainable materials.
Mattel has also launched a toy takeback program called PlayBack, which allows consumers to return Barbie, Matchbox, and MEGA brand toys for recycling into new products. The company has set ambitious goals for sustainability, aiming to achieve 100% recycled, recyclable, or bio-based plastic in its products and packaging by 2030. Additionally, by the end of 2021, Mattel hopes to source 95% of its packaging materials from recycled or Forest Stewardship Council-certified paper and wood.
These initiatives by Mattel demonstrate a commitment to environmental consciousness and sustainability, educating children about the importance of reducing plastic waste and creating a future where they can thrive.
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Frequently asked questions
If you're looking for a plastic Barbie that is safe for children, opt for newer models manufactured after 2007. Older Barbies may contain toxic chemicals that can be harmful to children who chew on the dolls.
Vintage Barbies were predominantly made of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) with phthalate-based plasticisers added to improve flexibility. Over time, these plasticisers can degrade, causing discolouration and stickiness.
Today's Barbies are made from a variety of plastics, including ethylene vinyl acetate for the arms, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene for the torsos, a hard vinyl compound for the heads, and PVC for the legs.
In 2021, Mattel launched a range of Barbies made from recycled plastics that would have otherwise ended up in the ocean. This initiative reflects a growing concern for sustainability and a shift towards reducing plastic waste.
