sweet

Just read an interesting article about the chemicals used in making plastic containers and the "plastic Codes" explained.

To summarize the article, there are codes 1 thru 7 on a plastic container. Safe codes are 1,2,4,5. Avoid codes are 3,6,7.

Here's a link to the article which contains some good information:
http://health.yahoo.net/articles/wom...container-safe

Safety First!

amma

Thank you for sharing this with us :D:D:D

ktbb

while code 6 may not be considered healthy to use;, did you know that it is the same plastic that was used in the shrinky-dink toys a few years ago? you can save the code 6 plastics, which are used in deli trays, etc, and use it to make shrinky-dink "stuff" with your grandkids...

clem55

How do you do that, make them shrink?

Sadiemae

I am to the point of wondering if anything is really safe.

ktbb

before you shrink them, use permanent markers to draw on your design and cut them in the shape you want....the shrinking will reduce the item by at least half size, so make sure you consider that. When it's colored the way you want it, put it on a teflon sheet in a 200 degree oven - toaster ovens work also - and keep an eye on it. The plastic will curl as it starts to shrink, but will eventually flatten out when all of the plastic has heated and shrunk. As it shrinks, the colors will become more brilliant. If you need to have a hole in the finished item for hanging, you can either use a paper punch before it's heated, or used a toothpick while the plastic is flat and still warm to "drill" the hole in the item.

Makes good tree ornaments, book marks, suncatchers, etc....and free.

Plastic # 6 works because it doesn't give off any toxic fumes when it's heated....don't try this with other plastics.

ptquilts

I do not use any plastics in the microwave, or plastic wrap. I thought #1 PETE was not safe, it is the clear water bottles that they now say not to reuse, freeze, or leave in a hot car.

belmer

Thankyou for sharing this info. with us.

Ditter43

Thanks for sharing this info!! :thumbup:

littlehud

Thanks for sharing.