Art World Knowledge – Is Acrylic Paint Toxic If Swallowed?

Children love playing with colors and everything bright and happening. The moment you take their color bins out for any art project, they will flock towards you to make their unique masterpiece.

We know you enjoy seeing your cutie playing with colors and creating an amazing piece of art. However, you might also notice your kids scooping acrylic paint out of the color palette with bare hands. This is likely to make you wonder, is acrylic paint toxic if swallowed? 

During an art session, children tend to swallow paints or splash them on the floor, which raises concerns. Your concern is right and it is completely normal. You want to ensure the safety of your kids before you let them go easy with colors and other paint supplies.

Does Acrylic Paints Cause Any Harm?

As per studies, some acrylic paints are safe to use, and some are toxic. This depends on the type of product you are using.

Acrylic paints can be poisonous and harmful when a large amount of these is ingested. Generally, water-based acrylic paints are non-toxic as they are water-soluble, which makes them chemical-free. They become water-resistant after drying. These are also easy to clean and wash off from surfaces.

However, there’s more to consider.

According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, some water-based acrylic paint contains ammonia and formaldehyde. Careless use of these might result in respiratory irritation and can cause more than an upset stomach. On the flip side, solvent-based acrylics contain turpentine, xylene, toluene, and methyl ethyl ketone. These could be toxic on inhaling. So when you let your kids use acrylic paints, make sure that they don’t put it in their mouths.

Further, as a parent, you should know that how you use paints makes a huge difference. For example, paints are more toxic when used for airbrushing. The degree of the potential harm will depend on the project and how you handle your painting kit.

Important Note

Acrylics have polymethyl methacrylate, but it is suspended in an aqueous (water-based) emulsion. This makes the paint harmless when used in small amounts.

In reality, the degree of harm has more to do with the pigment. Many modern acrylic paint pigments are not harmful when used in small quantities. The worst are cadmium reds, oranges, and yellows – you should use them with caution. We recommend you have a look at the warning label on the paint.

Is Acrylic Paint Safe for Baby Hand Prints?

As a parent, you will like to preserve the memories and relive the time when they were a toddler. Preserving your child’s handprint is the best way to do it. It is going to be a great beautiful keepsake for them.

You can use water-based acrylic paints to create your baby’s handprint. Create some handprints together with your kid, and make sure to wash your child’s hand soon after you complete your crafty endeavor.

How to Use Acrylic Paints – Safety Tips for Your Little One

We know you are concerned about your kids. Here we have listed some safety tips that will never let you wonder “is acrylic paint toxic when swallowed?” Follow these tips while using acrylic or any other paints: 

• Always wear gloves when you paint
• You can use Nitrile-coated gloves that block paint, solvents, and mediums from being absorbed into your skin
• The gloves should be breathable back
• Put on a mask when using acrylic paints for airbrushing as the harmful particles may get into your lungs
• Make sure that you use a good filter mask design that fits your face well
• When you buy paints, go for non-toxic acrylic art sets. Also, make sure your paints are certified for spraying (low inhalation toxicity)

Final Word

Your children can create amazing art when given the liberty to use the creative corners of their minds. Let’s not limit them and make their experience fun with all the safety measures we can take.

When you use water-based acrylic paints for everyday projects, they aren’t harmful. Make your children understand that the paint is meant to be used on canvas and it shouldn’t go anywhere besides that. Also, discuss with them the dos and don’ts of using acrylic paints. Once done, you will have a peaceful and joyful time with your soon-to-be Picassos.

We hope this was a useful read. If you are looking for some craft-related supplies to make your kid’s learning more fun and interesting, shop from our store. Our 35-piece acrylic art set comes with non-toxic acrylic paint tubes and other products to start a colorful journey. Shop now and ensure a safe painting experience with your kids.