Maya Ellison
Polymer clay is bonded together by a chemical called plasticizer, which is also found in plastic, making polymer clay soft and flexible. This is why polymer clay may not interact well with other plastics. Uncured polymer clay should not be stored in hard plastic containers as it can turn into goo. It is also not advisable to leave uncured clay on unprotected surfaces like tables or countertops, as well as painted, varnished, or lacquered surfaces.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Polymer clay storage | Avoid using hard plastic containers, plastics numbers 6 and 7 |
| Alternative storage options | Plastic sandwich bags, plastic wrap that isn't polystyrene |
| Plasticizers | Makes plastic soft and flexible |
| Polymer clay usage | Not suitable for food utensils or as food containers |
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What You'll Learn
Uncured clay shouldn't touch plastic
Polymer clay is bonded together by a chemical called plasticizer, which softens and flexes plastic. This is why polymer clay may not interact well with other plastics. Uncured clay should not be stored in hard plastic containers as it can turn into goo. Plastic wrap that isn't polystyrene can be used to wrap clay, but it is important to avoid plastics with the recycling numbers 6 and 7. As a test, you can store a small piece of clay for a day or two to see if the container softens or becomes sticky.
Polymer clay should not be left on unprotected surfaces for long periods, such as tables, countertops, or painted, varnished, or lacquered surfaces. This is because the plasticizer in the clay can damage these surfaces. Once the clay is baked, it is inert and chemically inactive, so it will not harm furniture. However, it is still not suitable for use with food, as it is not certified for food contact and can be a breeding ground for bacteria.
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Plastic wrap is safe for storage
Plastic wrap has been a staple in kitchens worldwide for covering leftovers and keeping food fresh. However, there have been concerns about the safety of using plastic wrap for food storage due to the potential for chemical leaching, especially when used on fatty or acidic foods.
The type of plastic wrap used is essential in determining its safety. PVC (polyvinyl chloride) plastic wrap, known for its clinginess and flexibility, has raised concerns among health experts about the potential release of chemicals into food when heated. As a result, brands like Saran Wrap have switched to using LDPE (Low-Density Polyethylene) plastic wrap, which is considered safer for direct food contact and more resistant to temperature changes.
While LDPE is generally regarded as safer than PVC, some studies suggest that it might still pose risks to human health. Additionally, the presence of PFAS chemicals in HDPE (High-Density Polyethylene) containers has been detected in foods like olive oil, ketchup, and mayonnaise after a week of contact. These chemicals can also be found in food sold in plastic containers and leftover storage containers, potentially exposing thousands of people to harmful substances.
To address these concerns, alternatives to plastic wrap are available, such as reusable food storage bags made from food-grade silicone. Food-grade silicone is safe for food storage and can withstand various temperatures without releasing hazardous compounds or fumes. Beeswax wraps are another popular option, offering a sustainable and eco-friendly alternative to plastic wraps. However, beeswax wraps are not recommended for use with raw meat or hot items as the heat can melt the wax coating.
In conclusion, while plastic wrap can be convenient and effective in keeping food fresh, it is essential to consider the potential risks associated with different types of plastic. Alternatives like food-grade silicone and beeswax wraps provide safer and more environmentally friendly options for food storage. For shorter-term storage, using a plastic or glass container instead of plastic wrap is recommended.
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Plasticizers in clay damage furniture
Polymer clay is a popular modelling clay that contains polyvinyl chloride (PVC) mixed with phthalate plasticizers. Phthalate plasticizers are chemicals that make the clay soft and workable. However, they are also associated with potential health risks, such as birth defects, reproductive problems, nerve system damage, and other negative health effects.
Polymer clay can melt or soften certain plastics in its raw or unbaked state. This is due to the presence of free plasticizers in the clay, which can react with the surrounding materials. When raw polymer clay is placed on a section of incompatible plastic, the plasticizers in the clay can soften and "melt" the plastic, causing it to unstiffen. This can result in sticky goo or the clay becoming stuck to the plastic. Therefore, it is recommended to store uncured clay in containers or bags made of compatible plastics, such as polypropylene or PP plastic, which has a recycling symbol of #5.
The plasticizers in polymer clay can also damage furniture. Uncured clay should not be left on unprotected surfaces like tables, countertops, or painted, varnished, or lacquered surfaces for extended periods. The plasticizers in the clay can react with the materials in these surfaces, causing damage. Once the clay is baked, it becomes inert and chemically inactive, posing no harm to furniture.
To prevent damage to furniture and ensure safe handling of polymer clay, it is important to follow certain practices. Dedicated storage containers and utensils should be used for the clay and kept separate from kitchen or food-related items. Gloves should be worn when handling the clay to limit direct contact and inhalation of clay chemicals. Proper ventilation is also crucial during and after baking to minimize the risk of inhaling clay particles.
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Clay isn't food-safe
Polymer clay is not food-safe, and objects made from it should not be used to eat or drink. This is because polymer clay is bound together by a chemical called "plasticizers", which is also the reason why it may react with other plastics. Cured polymer clay is very porous, and bacteria can breed in it if food particles get stuck in pores, nooks, and crannies. It is also difficult to clean adequately after coming into contact with food.
Polymer clay is made for craft use and is not designed to be used as a food utensil. It will not withstand sanitization methods like hot water, disinfecting liquids, or the dishwasher. Residual plasticizer can remain on the clay even after firing, so it is important to keep kitchen tools and utensils separate from those used for crafting with polymer clay.
Polymer clay should not be stored in hard plastic containers as it can become gooey. It is best to avoid plastics with the recycling numbers 6 and 7. A small piece of clay can be stored in a container to test if the plastic is compatible with the clay. Alternatively, clay can be stored in plastic sandwich bags, wrapped in plastic wrap (not polystyrene), or sandwiched between pieces of glass, as long as it doesn't come into contact with food.
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Clay shouldn't be washed in hot water
Polymer clay is held together by a chemical called plasticizer, which is what makes plastic soft and flexible. This is why polymer clay doesn't interact well with other plastics. Polymer clay should not be washed in hot water because it is not designed to withstand sanitization methods like hot water or disinfecting liquids. It will break down if washed in hot water or put in the dishwasher.
Polymer clay is meant for craft use, not as a food utensil, so it cannot be sanitized in the same way that kitchen utensils are. Once the clay is baked, it is inert and chemically inactive, so it cannot harm furniture. However, before it is baked, it should not be left sitting on unprotected surfaces like tables or countertops, as the plasticizer can damage these surfaces. It should also not be stored in hard plastic containers because it will turn into goo.
Polymer clay should also not come into contact with food. Even after firing, residual plasticizer can remain on the clay. Cured polymer clay is porous, so bacteria can breed in it if food particles get stuck. It is very difficult to clean adequately after using it with food. Therefore, it should not be used for anything that comes into direct contact with food.
To avoid damaging your possessions, it is best to keep polymer clay contained. It can be stored in plastic sandwich bags, which can be labelled for easy identification. Clay can also be wrapped in plastic wrap that is not polystyrene and then stored in any container.
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Frequently asked questions
Polymer clay is bound together by a chemical called plasticizers, which softens and makes plastic flexible. This is why polymer clay may not interact well with other plastics.
Polymer clay should be stored properly to avoid damaging objects made of certain types of plastics. Polymer clay should not be stored in hard plastic containers. Instead, it can be stored in plastic sandwich bags or wrapped in plastic wrap that isn't polystyrene.
Plastics with the recycling numbers 6 and 7 should be avoided when storing polymer clay.
Polymer clay is not meant to be used as a food utensil. It is not certified for food contact as it cannot be adequately cleaned after using it with food.
