[:"magenta"]hi all. <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/wave.gif" alt="" /> i have a cute little clay pot, and i am wondering how safe it is. it seems to be terra cotta, with some kinda white clay on the outside (in a sorta marble pattern.) it has no glaze, sealant, paint, or stain of any kind. i am kinda worried about lead poisoning if they bite/lick it. what does everybody think? is it safe? any input will be appreciated. [/]

I saw a picture the other day (somewhere) about using clay pots and how they were good because they are "breathable" and would not harber any moisture. But others will be here soon to give you a more informed opinion! Hang in there!

Long ago I took ceramics, and I remember being told unglazed pottery was toxic if eaten from. I would stick to hard plastics, easy to clean up, and known safe.

Karin

I would need to know for sure what type of clay it is made from to answer that question. I am a potter and I use white earthenware, stoneware and terra cotta. Once they have been fired they are safe BUT they will absorb moisture (urine) and it would be very difficult to keep them clean. Not knowing what clay you have there I would NOT suggest using it. It is always better safe then sorry. If this pot is something special to you and you really want to use it, for the cost of mailing only, I could glaze it with a safe glaze for you.

[:"magenta"]thank you all for the responses. i was gonna use it as a toy, not to feed them. but, since it will be hard to clean, i probably will not bother.

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