If you have ever used EXPO dry erase or wet erase markers, you probably have asked yourself, “are EXPO markers toxic?”.
That is quite usual to ask about for an artist looking for high-quality markers. Much more so when you use them at home or school with kids around.
The good news is that EXPO markers are non-toxic.
These markers have been carefully and innovatively manufactured to provide useful, interactive, and safe writing tools for everyone.
That said, let us explore the fundamental details of the formula and safety data of EXPO markers.
Contents
A Brief Background
EXPO markers are manufactured by the Newell Company (formerly Sanford Manufacturing Company). The first ever dry erase marker was formulated in August 1976, presenting an erasable alcohol-based ink formula that has been utilized among EXPO dry erase markers available on the market today.
Since then, EXPO has become the leading brand for whiteboard and dry erase materials, including dry erase markers, wet erase markers and whiteboard accessories.
What are EXPO markers made of?
When consumers ask whether or not a product is toxic, the bigger question lies within the safety of the ingredients used to formulate it. As for EXPO markers, the manufacturer has been very transparent about the ingredient information, reassuring every consumer that their markers are non-toxic and completely safe to use.
Alcohol-based Ink
The ink is composed of chemical solvents, color pigments, and oily silicone polymer for superior erasability. Aside from that, the EXPO dry erase markers non-toxic formulation primarily utilizes alcohol as the solvent for fast-drying ink.
The official website of EXPO markers also provided a full list of ingredients used to create their lineup of markers. The list of ingredients is as follows:
- Deionized Water
- 1-Butoxy-2-Propanol
- PPG-2 Methyl Ether
- Methylisothiazolinone
- Sodium Carbonate
- C12-15 Pareth-4
As per the manufacturer, the aforementioned ingredients are not chemical hazards.
Therefore, is EXPO marker toxic to humans?
The Newell Company has yet again provided a detailed safety data sheet to address any safety hazards, including toxicological information.
Sifting through the data, the manufacturer confirms that EXPO markers have no known critical health hazards, which makes the EXPO markers safe for humans.
To comply with the health regulations of the State of California, these markers do not contain chemical ingredients that are known to cause adverse health effects such as birth defects, cancer, and reproductive issues.
Barrel and Ink Reservoir
There is no detailed information regarding the material of the barrel or ink reservoir of EXPO markers. However, we can tell that the reservoir is made of high-quality polyester plastic while the body and cap, like most markers, are made of resin.
Are EXPO Markers safe for kids?
EXPO markers are thoughtfully formulated to provide interactive learning between students and teachers as well as parents and their kids. With this in mind, it is safe to say that EXPO markers can be safely used by or with kids or when kids are around.
However, keep in mind that, like any other type of marker, these markers may lead to serious health issues when a child ingested the chemical ingredients in large amounts.
Although known to be low-odor, kids or some users may still find the odor toxic or strong for their preferences. Thus, inhalation of the marker’s ink may cause headaches or dizziness.
Moreover, these markers also have small parts like the caps or the tip of the marker that are choking hazards. That is why it is best to use these markers with an adult’s supervision.
Are EXPO Markers Vegan and Cruelty-free?
According to a conducted interview with an employee of the Newell Company and the EXPO Consumer Care, EXPO markers are manufactured without any animal products being used, and hence, we can conclude that they are vegan-friendly.
With regard to animal testing, the company does its best efforts to avoid such practice. However, they cannot provide assurance whether or not animal testing is conducted since third-party or indirect suppliers are involved and may not regard mutual concerns and perspectives toward this procedure.
EXPO Markers and the Environment
The use of dry erase markers has raised concerns with regard to its effect on the environment. This use of EXPO markers included.
Fortunately, the Newell Company safety data sheet stated that EXPO markers have no known ingredients that are classified as hazardous to the environment.
Nevertheless, proper disposal of markers should be practiced to avoid contamination of the waterways and pollution of the environment. In that case, the data sheet provided correct practices for the disposal of markers such as follows:
- Do not empty the containers of the markers on the drains, sewers, or waterways.
- Recycling the plastic materials of the marker is encouraged.
- The markers should be properly stored to prevent any leaks. Keep them in a cool and well-ventilated area and away from direct sunlight.
- Make sure to keep the markers carefully sealed and positioned upright to avoid any spills and leakage.
Conclusion
As we answer the question, “Are EXPO markers toxic?”, we have learned detailed information and facts about the materials and ingredients used that make them safe to use for everyone; whether you are a teacher, a parent, a student, or simply a hobbyist. Since these markers use non-toxic formula, it can give a sense of relief and assurance to the consumers, especially those with children around.