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Poison Center Helpline 1-800-222-1222

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Not sure what to do? Have an urgent question?

If your child is having symptoms or you don't know the exact substance or amount swallowed, call the Poison Center Hotline at 1-800-222-1222. This call is free and confidential.

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My Child Ate Play-Doh

play-doh
Play-Doh is minimally toxic .

If your child swallowed Play-Doh, give them a few sips of water and watch for vomiting and constipation.

If your child ate homemade “slime” that’s made with Borax or boric acid, call IPC immediately at 1-800-222-1222.
This call is free and confidential.

What to know: Play-Doh

  • Play-Doh is also known as clay or modeling clay.

Toxicity Level

What are toxicity levels?

My kid ate Play-Doh. Is Play-Doh toxic? 

Play-Doh and clay are minimally toxic if swallowed in small amounts. Some types may contain wheat, which could cause an allergic reaction if your child is sensitive to wheat gluten.

Some homemade clay or "slime" recipes use Borax or boric acid, which can be toxic if swallowed. If your child swallowed Borax or boric acid, call IPC now at 1-800-222-1222.

Symptoms of Poisoning

Eating a small amount of Play-Doh or modeling clay does not usually cause any symptoms. Eating large amounts may cause vomiting or constipation.

If symptoms develop or your child experiences continued vomiting, diarrhea or constipation, call IPC at 1-800-222-1222.

Eye Exposure

  • Play-Doh may cause irritation if exposed to eyes.

  • If your child got Play-Doh in their eyes, rinse by pouring clean, lukewarm water across the affected eye(s) for 15 minutes.

For more instructions, please see our page on eye exposure information.

Have an urgent question or need more help?

Don't hesitate to call IPC at

1-800-222-1222

This call is free and confidential.

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