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Play-Doh
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Play-Doh, is a commercial modeling compound similar in texture to bread dough that has been sold as a children's toy around the world for over half century. Its exact makeup is a trade secret, but it is primarily a mixture of wheat flour, water, deodorized kerosene or another petroleum distillate (which provides the smooth texture), salt, a drying agent such as borax (which deters mold), an alum-based hardening agent, and colourings and perfume.
It is non-toxic, non-staining, and soluble in soapy water. When kept in a sealed container, Play-Doh remains pliable, but when exposed to air it hardens in about a day. However, because it tends to crack during hardening, it is not good for projects one wants to save. Many adults have fond childhood memories of its salty taste and distinctive smell (due to the small amount of petroleum distillate it contains).
Play-Doh was invented by Noah McVicker and Joseph McVicker in 1956 and awarded U.S. Patent 3,167,440 in 1965. One of many common products invented by accident, it was meant as a wallpaper cleaner. It was marketed by toy manufacturer Rainbow Crafts, and first sold at the Woodward & Lothrop department store in Washington, D.C.
Play-Doh is available in several different colors and has a distinctive smell and texture. Over 900 million pounds have been sold so far. The product is now owned by American toy giant Hasbro.
In 2006, the distinctive Play-Doh smell was turned into a limited-edition fragrance by the Demeter Fragrance Library to celebrate the product's 50th birthday. [1]
National Play-doh Day is on September 16. [1]