Is it safe for kids to play with Play-Doh every day?
Based on 1 peer-reviewed studybaby
Verdict: Use Caution
Daily yes with fresh Play-Doh. Older Play-Doh grows mold and carries more added chemicals.
What's actually in it
Play-Doh is mostly flour, water, salt, borax, and mineral oil, with added fragrance and preservatives. It's very safe to handle. Daily face-and-mouth play by a toddler still means steady low-dose exposure to fragrance and preservatives.
What the research says
A 2025 screening study in Environ Sci Technol flagged fragrance chemicals and preservatives across kids' products.
Look for fragrance-free play dough or make your own from flour, salt, water, oil, and cream of tartar. Replace when dough becomes crusty or smells off.
The research at a glance
| Study | Journal | Year |
|---|---|---|
| Chemical signatures for household consumer products. | Environ Sci Technol | 2025 |
What to use instead
Browse our vetted, non-toxic alternatives. Every product is third-party certified.
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