13 School Supplies That Were Common But Unsafe
Many school supplies once considered normal are now recognized as unsafe for children.
- Sophia Zapanta
- 3 min read
In the past, certain school supplies contained toxic materials or posed physical risks. Advances in safety regulations and scientific research have revealed these dangers. Understanding these risks explains why many items are no longer used in schools today.
1. Asbestos Chalkboards
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Some chalkboards contained asbestos to make them heat-resistant. Asbestos fibers are extremely harmful when inhaled and can cause lung disease. Schools have since replaced them with safer materials like fiberglass or plastic. Modern boards no longer pose this risk.
2. Lead Paint on Desks and Walls
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Lead was a common ingredient in paint used in classrooms. Lead exposure can damage the brain, kidneys, and nervous system. Regulations now ban lead in school paints. Safer, non-toxic paints are standard in modern schools.
3. Mercury Thermometers
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Mercury thermometers were used to measure temperature in laboratories. If broken, mercury can vaporize and cause serious health problems. Digital thermometers are now standard in schools. They are safer, easier to use, and accurate.
4. Ballpoint Pens with Toxic Ink
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Some older pens contained inks with hazardous chemicals. Children risked skin irritation or accidental ingestion. Modern pens use non-toxic ink that meets safety standards. Schools now only allow approved writing materials.
5. Metal Lunch Boxes with Sharp Edges
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Metal lunch boxes often had sharp seams and corners. These could cut or injure children. Plastic and insulated fabric lunch boxes have replaced them. They are lighter, safer, and easier to clean.
6. Paints Containing Solvents
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Art supplies would sometimes contain strong solvents for color and drying. Solvents can cause headaches, dizziness, and long-term health effects. Water-based paints have replaced toxic varieties. They are safe for indoor use and non-irritating.
7. Chalk with Dust
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Traditional chalk produced large amounts of dust. Inhaling chalk dust can cause respiratory irritation and trigger asthma. Dustless chalk and whiteboard markers reduce airborne particles. These alternatives protect children’s lungs.
8. Rubber Erasers with Lead
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Older erasers occasionally contained lead compounds to improve texture. Lead exposure can harm cognitive development. Modern erasers are made from safe, non-toxic rubber or synthetic materials. Schools ensure all erasers meet safety standards.
9. Pencil Sharpeners with Exposed Blades
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Manual sharpeners would often leave sharp blades uncovered. Children could accidentally cut their fingers. New sharpeners have protective covers or enclosed blades. They allow safe use without direct contact with metal edges.
10. Magnetic Toys in Science Kits
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Strong magnets were sometimes included in kits without warnings. Small magnets can be swallowed and cause internal injuries. Modern science kits use safer magnets or provide clear safety instructions. Supervision is recommended during use.
11. Glass Rulers
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Glass rulers were once standard in classrooms. They can easily break and cause cuts. Plastic and metal rulers are now standard and far safer. They withstand drops without shattering.
12. Correction Fluids Containing Solvents
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Older correction fluids included volatile chemicals like toluene. These could cause headaches, dizziness, and skin irritation. Water-based correction fluids are now widely used. They are non-toxic and safe for children.
13. High-Powered Magnifying Lenses
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Some magnifying lenses concentrated sunlight enough to start fires. Children using them unsupervised could cause burns or fires. Modern kits have safer, low-power lenses. Teachers also supervise their use carefully.