Orbeez are colorful, squishy beads that absorb water and grow in size. While being fun to play with, are they safe for the planet? What happens when they’re thrown away? Let’s find out if they are as harmless as they seem!
In this article:
What Is Inside Orbeez?
Orbeez are made from sodium polyacrylate, a type of superabsorbent polymer (SAP). This material consists of long-chain molecules that can trap and hold large amounts of water. It is created using acrylic acid, sodium hydroxide, and cross-linking agents that help form its structure. When dry, Orbeez are tiny, hard beads. But when placed in water, they soak up liquid and expand up to 300 times their weight without dissolving.
Orbeez are non-toxic and safe to touch. However, they are not edible and should never be swallowed. If ingested, they can cause choking or digestive issues, especially for young children and pets. A study by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission has detected acrylamide in these colorful water beads, which is linked to cancer. Because of these dangers, many retailers have started to restrict sales of Orbeez toys.
Aside from their water-absorbing ability, these water bead products have other interesting properties. They feel soft, smooth, and bouncy when hydrated. They can be dried out and reused, making them a long-lasting material for sensory play or decoration. They are also resistant to breaking and do not dissolve easily, which is why they take a long time to decompose in nature.
Are Orbeez Biodegradable?
Orbeez are technically biodegradable, but the process is extremely slow. They are made of sodium polyacrylate, a synthetic polymer that can break down over time. However, this can take hundreds of years, especially in dry conditions or landfills.
In nature, sunlight, heat, and bacteria help decompose Orbeez. However, since they are designed to hold excess water and resist breaking down, they do not degrade quickly. Some studies suggest that less than 10% of the material decomposes in 10 days, meaning full breakdown can take centuries.
Because of this slow decomposition, Orbeez can harm the environment if not disposed of properly. If they end up in soil or water, they can contribute to microplastic pollution and threaten wildlife. Some companies are working on plant-based, biodegradable alternatives, but most Orbeez sold today are still made from petroleum-based materials.
Are Orbeez Compostable?
No, Orbeez are not compostable because they are made from synthetic polymers. Compostable materials break down quickly and turn into natural nutrients for the soil. Orbeez, however, take a very long time to decompose, making them unsuitable for composting.
Some people mix these water-absorbing balls into garden soil to help retain moisture. While they can hold water for plants, they do not break down like organic compost materials. Over time, they can build up in the soil and become a source of plastic pollution.
If you want an eco-friendly alternative, consider using coconut coir, vermiculite, or natural water-absorbing crystals instead of Orbeez. These materials provide similar moisture benefits without harming the environment.
Are Orbeez Recyclable?
No, Orbeez are not recyclable. Most recycling programs do not accept superabsorbent polymers like sodium polyacrylate because they do not melt or reshape like regular plastics. This means Orbeez cannot be processed in standard recycling facilities.
Since they are not biodegradable either, throwing them away can contribute to plastic waste. If Orbeez end up in nature, they can harm wildlife and pollute water sources.
Instead of recycling, the best option is to reuse these colored water beads. You can dry them out and store them for future use. They can also be repurposed for sensory play, home décor, or plant hydration. When disposing of Orbeez, it’s best to seal them in a trash bag to prevent them from spreading into the environment.
Are Orbeez Bad For The Environment?
Orbeez can be harmful to the environment if not disposed of properly. While they are non-toxic, their slow decomposition and plastic-like properties make them a potential pollutant. Since Orbeez do not break down quickly, they can stay in soil and water for years, contributing to microplastic pollution.
One major concern is wildlife ingestion. Small animals, fish, and birds may mistake these sensory beads for food. If swallowed, the gel beads can expand inside their bodies, causing intestinal blockages and serious health issues. This is especially dangerous in aquatic environments where these colorful beads can float or sink into waterways.
Another risk is clogging and drainage issues. If Orbeez are flushed down sinks or toilets, they can swell inside pipes, leading to plumbing problems. They can also block waterways and disrupt natural water flow, affecting aquatic ecosystems.
Additionally, the production of Orbeez relies on petroleum-based materials, which are not sustainable. The chemicals used to create superabsorbent polymers come from non-renewable resources, adding to the environmental impact.
To reduce harm, it’s best to reuse these water-absorbing beads when possible and dispose of them responsibly. Eco-friendly alternatives, like biodegradable water beads or natural soil enhancers, are better choices for those concerned about sustainability.
