The Best Theraputty - AKA Playdoh

Theraputty is great for both pediatric and adult populations. The putty can be used to address fine motor, grip strength, coordination, and dexterity impairments, along with many more functionalities. The uses, techniques, and manipulations you can use with theraputty are endless. In this article I’ll compare three different brands/types and discuss the pros and cons of each.

Let’s start with my favorite:

1. Strength Buddy

• Pros: The product comes with four varying resistances from very light to firm.It is non-toxic, odorless, and gluten free. There is a distinct difference between the resistances. The putty doesn’t firm up with increased use (I’ve used it for more than a year now without firming up or drying out). Also, it is latex free!! Which is a huge bonus considering putty is supposed to help increase strength not increase allergic reactions. I have no had issues with stains or oily hands after use.

• Cons: Each container has 3 oz of putty which is a bit small if you’re trying to work both hands simultaneously. I’ve bought multiple packs because my clients want to keep them!

• Price: $13.90 on Amazon right now.

• Click Here to buy.

2. Thera FlintRehab - Thera putty 4 pack

• Pros: unscented and nontoxic according to their label. Exercises to do with the putty are provided with the purchase. Additionally, if you’re looking to buy increased quantities you can get it at a better deal.

• Cons: There have been multiple reports of the putty leaving stains on the hand and/or material if left to sink in. Also, it sticks to the hands which make manipulation and clean up difficult.

• Price: $14.99 on Amazon right now

• Click Here to buy

3. BodyHealt Therapy Putty

• Pros: The biggest advantage of Bodyhealt is it is the most affordable of the therapy putties. The product comes in a smaller size, 2oz per color, so this may be more suitable for pediatric patients.

• Cons: If you work with adults, the 2oz sizes will probably be too small. Also, the putty has gotten harder to manipulate with increased used. For example, the yellow is definitely more of a medium resistance now after using it for 6+ months with different clients. The putty is very difficult to remove from clothes, material, etc.

• Price: $9.45 currently on Amazon

• Click Here to buy

P.S. If you've found a great way to remove putty from material, especially jewelry and clothes, I'd love to hear it!