PLA Filament: Is it Safe, and is it really Plastic?

When you dive into the world of 3D printing, one of the first names you’ll hear is PLA filament. It’s colourful, affordable, and super popular for beginners and pros alike. But a common question pops up: “Is PLA actually safe? And isn’t it just more plastic?” Let’s unpack it.

What is PLA?

PLA stands for Polylactic Acid. Unlike traditional plastics made from petroleum, PLA is made from renewable resources like corn starch or sugarcane. That means it’s a bioplastic, still a type of plastic, but one that comes from plants instead of oil.

In the 3D printing world, PLA is loved because:

• It’s easy to print with (low temperatures, less warping).
• It comes in heaps of colours and finishes.
• It doesn’t smell terrible when printing (unlike ABS, which can stink up your whole garage).

Is PLA Safe?

The short answer: yes, mostly!

For printing at home: PLA is considered one of the safest filaments to use. It doesn’t give off nasty fumes, and it’s non-toxic in its raw form. That’s why schools, libraries, and hobbyists often use it.

For food use: This is where it gets tricky. PLA itself is technically food-safe, but most 3D printers aren’t. The metal nozzles and tiny layer gaps can harbour bacteria. So while you can print a cookie cutter or a plant pot, don’t rely on PLA for your coffee mug or baby’s sippy cup.

For the environment: PLA is biodegradable under industrial composting conditions, which means it won’t break down in your backyard compost bin. But compared to petroleum plastics, it’s still the greener option.

Is PLA “Just Another Plastic”?

Yes, but with a twist. PLA is a plastic, but it’s not the same as the single-use plastics clogging up our oceans. Because it’s plant-based, it has a smaller carbon footprint. And while it won’t disappear overnight if tossed in the landfill, it’s still a step in the right direction compared to traditional plastics.

Think of PLA as the “gateway plastic”, safer, easier, and a little kinder to the planet, but not a magic solution on its own.

At 3DB Print Lab, we love bringing ideas to life with safe, reliable, and family-friendly 3D printing. Whether it’s fun gadgets, practical home solutions, or something our kids have dreamt up, we’ve got the printers and the passion to make it happen.

Explore our creations today, or get in touch to start your custom 3D print with us.