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Old 10-02-2009, 11:53 PM
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How to spot stainless steel toy parts

I was wondering if there is a way to determine if a toy part is stainless steel apart from having it tested for zinc. I read somewhere that SS is not magnetic. I tried testing my fids toys and they all stuck to the magnet so now I am nervous about them. Is there a standard for bird toys where manufactures have to use stainless steel when they market the toy for birds or can they use any type of metal? How can you be sure the metal on a new toy is safe? Are most toy chains and bells generally SS or should I be worried about them?
I would hate to think I have to toss all the toys out because they are magnetic. Some are expensive and have metal chains attached like my wacky wood lima perch.

Thanks for the help
Amanda
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Old 10-03-2009, 12:06 AM
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The magnet test is the way to go. The vast majority or metal used is nickle plated which is fine but you do need to watch it for wear and tear. If the plating starts getting chipped then time to toss. You may be able to find a way to replace chains, o rings and links with stainless steel versions though. You could have a good look how the toy is put together and see what you can change over with a pair of pliers.

I actually keep a big magnet available to check my toys so I know what to keep an eye on.
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Old 10-03-2009, 03:23 AM
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Stainless steel is magnetic, and shiny, and much harder than zinc.
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Old 10-03-2009, 06:11 AM
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Quote:
Originally Posted by sodakat View Post
Stainless steel is magnetic, and shiny, and much harder than zinc.
The most common grade of ss is 304 grade and is not magnetic... Sorry
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Old 10-03-2009, 04:21 PM
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So should I be worried about metal parts on my fids toys or are they generally SS or nickel plated and safe until they show signs of wear?
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Old 10-03-2009, 06:50 PM
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I think that yes, we should all be concerned about any metal parts in toys and other accessories as so many of them, the majority of them, contain zinc. If you've ever seen a video of a parrot suffering from zinc poisoning........well, it's truly horrible.

I do all I can to avoid it in toys, chains, quick links and washers by making sure I only buy genuine stainless steel products. All the bowls I use are stainless steel.

These toys, chains, quick links and bowls cost more than the cheaper metals but I don't care, I won't compromise when it comes to safety if I can possibly avoid doing so.

My cages are Montana cages but not stainless steel so I can only trust Montana's word they are safe.
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