Elmer’s glue has been a staple in elementary school classrooms and homes for decades. The white glue is kid-friendly, easy to use, and washes out of most fabrics. But is Elmer’s glue actually safe for human consumption or exposure? Here’s a comprehensive look at whether exposure to Elmer’s glue is toxic and dangerous to humans.
What is in Elmer’s Glue?
Elmer’s glue is a polyvinyl acetate, water-based adhesive. The primary ingredient in Elmer’s glue is polyvinyl acetate emulsion, which is a vinyl polymer. The Elmer’s Company does not disclose the exact concentration of polyvinyl acetate in their glue, but it ranges between 50% to 85%.
The other key ingredients in Elmer’s glue include:
- Water – makes up the liquid base of the glue
- Preservatives – prevents bacterial growth and spoilage
- Thickening agents – gives the glue its thick, viscous texture
- pH stabilizers – helps maintain an alkaline pH to prevent separation
- Defoaming agents – prevents bubbling during manufacturing
None of the ingredients in Elmer’s glue are highly toxic or hazardous at the concentrations used in the product. While ingesting large quantities of glue could potentially cause an upset stomach or GI issues, overall Elmer’s glue is considered non-toxic.
Is Elmer’s Glue Toxic if Ingested?
If a small amount of Elmer’s glue is ingested, it is unlikely to cause any toxicity or poisoning. However, swallowing large volumes of glue can potentially cause:
- Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea
- Abdominal pain
- Throat irritation
- Difficulty swallowing
If ingested, Elmer’s glue can also obstruct the esophagus or intestines, particularly if it hardens. Seek medical attention if a child consumes more than a taste or lick of Elmer’s glue and experiences any symptoms.
Hazards of Eating Elmer’s Glue
While not highly toxic, there are some risks associated with intentionally or unintentionally ingesting Elmer’s glue. These include:
- Polyvinyl acetate is indigestible for humans and provides no nutritional value
- Glue can harden into a mass in the intestines and cause a bowel obstruction
- Preservatives added to prevent microbial growth can potentially irritate the GI tract
- Vomiting after ingesting glue could lead to aspiration into the lungs
To reduce the risk of poisoning, all glue products should be stored securely out of reach of children. Call Poison Control immediately if a large amount of glue is ingested. Inducing vomiting is not recommended.
Treatment for Elmer’s Glue Ingestion
Minor ingestion of Elmer’s glue can be treated by diluting the product and flushing it through the system. Treatment may include:
- Drinking water or milk to help dilute the glue
- Eating high fiber foods to speed up elimination
- Using laxatives to accelerate bowel movements
- Endoscopic removal of dried glue masses
- IV fluids for dehydration from vomiting/diarrhea
Closely monitor the child after glue ingestion and watch for signs of bowel obstruction. Surgery may be required if a large mass of glue hardens in the gastrointestinal tract.
Is Elmer’s Glue Toxic to Touch or Inhale?
Elmer’s glue is considered non-toxic when proper safety precautions are followed. The primary risk is from inhalation or eye contact.
Skin Contact
Elmer’s glue is not absorbed through the skin, so brief contact is not dangerous. However, some potential risks include:
- Dries out the skin with prolonged, repeated exposure
- Seals and traps bacteria against the skin, increasing infection risk
- Difficult to wash off hands completely when dried
- Can accidentally glue skin together (eyelids, fingers etc)
Wearing gloves when working closely with Elmer’s glue for extended periods helps reduce skin contact. If glue gets on the skin, wash immediately with soap and water before drying.
Eye Contact
Getting Elmer’s glue in the eyes can be hazardous and should be avoided. Dried glue can scratch the cornea or seal the eye shut. If glue gets in the eyes:
- Flush eyes immediately with lukewarm water for 15-20 minutes
- Carefully open eyelids to remove dried glue
- Do not try to pull bonded eyelids apart
- Seek medical help to remove glue from eyes
Wearing safety goggles provides essential protection when working with large amounts of glue.
Inhalation
Inhaling the vapors from Elmer’s glue is unlikely to cause toxicity. However, precautions should still be taken to use glues in well-ventilated areas. Long-term exposure to glue vapors can potentially cause:
- Irritation of nose, throat, and airways
- Headaches, dizziness, lightheadedness
- Nausea
- Difficulty concentrating
Sniffing glue and inhaling large quantities of vapors purposefully can be more hazardous. Toxic effects include:
- Damage to brain, liver, kidneys, nerves
- Respiratory failure
- Sudden heart failure or asphyxiation
- Seizures, coma, death (in severe cases of abuse)
Is Elmer’s Glue Flammable?
Elmer’s glue is not flammable under normal usage conditions. However, dried glue can burn if ignited. Key flammability facts include:
- Wet Elmer’s glue will not ignite or sustain a flame by itself
- Dried glue is combustible and will burn if exposed to high heat or flame
- Glue vapors can be flammable in very high concentrations
- Avoid storing large amounts of glue near ignition sources
- Water spray readily extinguishes burning glue
For safe usage, glue projects should be dried in well-ventilated areas away from sparks or open flames. Elmer’s glue complies with all US flammability standards for school glue.
Is Elmer’s Glue Toxic to Cats, Dogs, and Pets?
Elmer’s glue is minimally toxic to dogs and cats, but ingestion should still be avoided. For household pets, the greatest risk is gastrointestinal obstruction from swallowing dried glue.
Signs of Elmer’s glue toxicity in pets include:
- Drooling, vomiting, diarrhea
- Loss of appetite
- Lethargy, weakness
- Abdominal pain, bloating, constipation
- Bowel obstruction
Cats are more sensitive to Elmer’s glue toxicity than dogs due to their meticulous grooming habits. Prevent access to ensure pets do not ingest glue during projects or crafts.
Treatment for Pets
Treatment for Elmer’s glue poisoning in pets may include:
- Inducing vomiting if recently ingested
- IV fluids and supportive care
- Laxatives or enemas
- Endoscopy or surgery to remove hardened glue from GI tract
- Bloodwork to check for liver and kidney damage
Full recovery is likely with prompt veterinary treatment. However, severe cases could result in irreversible intestinal scarring or death if untreated.
Precautions When Using Elmer’s Glue
When used properly, Elmer’s glue is safe for kids and adults. However, ingestion or misuse can cause health hazards. Follow these precautions with Elmer’s glue:
- Close containers tightly when not in use
- Wash hands after handling
- Avoid contact with eyes, skin, clothing
- Do not sniff glue or inhale vapors
- Use in well-ventilated rooms
- Store out of reach of young children
Supervise young children closely during any glue projects. Seek immediate medical help if a significant amount of glue is consumed.
The Bottom Line
When used properly, Elmer’s glue does not pose significant health risks. The polyvinyl acetate and other ingredients are considered relatively non-toxic. However, misuse by ingestion, inhalation, or eye contact can potentially cause adverse effects.
Keep glue away from toddlers and pets. Glue should be used in moderation in well-ventilated rooms. With prudent precautions, Elmer’s glue is safe for kids and adults to use for arts, crafts, and school projects.
