When Orbeez are added to water, the polyacrylamide copolymers rapidly absorb the water molecules. This causes them to swell up and transform into the squishy, gel-like beads we know and love. The water becomes trapped within the molecular structure of the copolymers. Despite their water-filled and jelly-like appearance, Orbeez maintain their shape due to the cross-linked structure of the polyacrylamide copolymers.

Orbeez balls can be dissolved using a mixture of vinegar and baking soda to dissolve them layer by layer, which means you may need to repeat the process a few times. Sodium polyacrylate is derived from acrylic acid, which comes from petroleum. The production of Orbeez and similar water beads requires oil, a non-renewable resource. They are not a sustainable product and their manufacturing process emits greenhouse gasses. Choking and toxicity hazardManufacturers make Orbeez with a polymer. But these polymer beads are like hydrogel, which can absorb a lot of water. It looks very much like plastic materials, but it is not.

Once fully expanded, Orbeez can hold up to 300 times their weight in water! But don’t worry, the water is securely trapped and won’t leak out unless you pierce or break the orb. Another child in Peachtree City, Georgia was injured while riding his bike. The young boy was shot in his face and torso, leaving welts on the boy’s body, according to local police.

How do you dispose of water beads?

Decorate vases or other containers – Fill a vase or other container with water beads and add fresh flowers for a beautiful, unique arrangement. When you add water, these little beads soak it up and expand into the squishy, colorful orbs we know and love. The water gets trapped in the molecular structure of the polymer, but it’s still there – Orbeez are up to 99% water! During the interview, Tali Ben-Ezer revealed that they founded Maya Toys, the company behind Orbeez in 1992 in a New York City apartment and named it after their daughter Maya. Orbeez where to buy Water beads can also be used to make homemade sensory bottles. Simply fill a bottle with water beads and a few drops of food coloring. Then, screw on the lid and watch as the beads bounce around the bottle. These bottles are great for both kids and adults and make a great stress reliever.