Frequently Asked Questions
πΎ Got questions? We've got answers! Here's everything you need to know about Phaws:
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π Getting Started
Q: How can I get a Phaws toy?
A: You can buy a 3D-printed Phaws Roller Toy right here, today, or you can be one of the first to get an injection molded toy when we launch by supporting our Kickstarter π
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πΏ About PHA Materials
Q: What is PHA and why is it better?
A: PHA (Polyhydroxyalkanoates) is a naturally occurring material made by microbes - kind of like how our bodies make and break down fat! It has plastic-like properties but biodegrades naturally over time. Unlike traditional plastics that stick around for centuries, PHA breaks down in months.
Learn more about PHA materials β
π¬ Want the technical details?
PHA products offer comparable durability to traditional plastics during use. They maintain their structural integrity for months to years depending on usage, but begin biodegrading only when exposed to composting conditions with specific microorganisms, moisture, and temperature.
Q: How is PHA made?
A: We feed microbes sugar or organic waste, and over 24-48 hours of fermentation, they produce PHA as energy storage. We then harvest and purify it, and convert it into products and packaging just like ordinary plastics. It's like brewing beer, but for sustainable materials! πΊπ±
Q: How long does it take to biodegrade?
A: In a backyard compost pile: ~12 months. In industrial composting: 3-6 months. Compare that to regular plastic which takes 500+ years!
π See the full breakdown
PHA materials biodegrade 100x faster than traditional petroplastics. While regular plastic can take 100-1000 years to break down, PHA materials completely compost in 3 months to 6 months, and degrade in ~5-10 years in most open environments.
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π Pet Safety
Q: Is it safe if my dog chews or eats it?
A: Yes! Small pieces will pass harmlessly. We've designed an air hole to prevent choking. The best part? Every time your pup chews, they're NOT ingesting toxic chemicals like BPA or phthalates that are in traditional plastic toys.
Read our complete pet safety guide β
β οΈ Important safety details
All materials used in Phaws products are non-toxic and small fragments should pass harmlessly with incidental ingestion, though the situation should always be monitored. Large fragments should be treated no differently than any other large item and vet attention should likely be sought.
Safety Guidelines:
- Always supervise pets during play
- Inspect toys regularly for wear and damage
- Remove and dispose of worn toys properly
- Not intended for consumption - contact veterinarian if large pieces are ingested
Q: Will it break down while my dog is playing with it?
A: Nope! PHA toys are durable during normal use. They only biodegrade under specific composting conditions (moisture, heat, microbes) that aren't present during playtime.
π§ How durable are they really?
PHA products are designed to withstand normal pet play. They only biodegrade under specific composting conditions with the right combination of microorganisms, moisture, heat, and oxygen that aren't present during regular use. Your toy will last just as long as traditional plastic toys during normal play!
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β»οΈ End of Life
Q: What do I do when my dog is done with it?
A: Three easy options:
1. Compost it at home - Break it into smaller pieces and toss it in your compost bin
2. Industrial composting - Check if your city accepts PHA products
3. *WIP* Send it back to us - We'll eventually recycle or compost it for you and give you a discount on your next toy!
π Complete disposal guide
Option 1: Home Composting
- Rinse it off (just water, no harsh chemicals)
- Break into smaller pieces with scissors
- Add to your compost bin
- Wait ~12 months - it'll break down naturally!
The result? Nutrient-rich compost for your garden. π»
Option 2: Industrial Composting
Contact your local waste management to see if they accept biodegradable plastics. Industrial facilities break it down in 3-6 months!
Option 3: Send It Back (Coming Soon!)
We're launching a take-back program where you can mail us your worn toys. Coming early 2026!
Q: Can I recycle it?
A: Don't put it in plastic recycling - it's meant to be composted, not recycled. Unfortunately, there isn't enough PHA out there for recyclers to properly process it yet.
π Sustainability
Q: What makes Phaws products sustainable?
A: Everything! Our products are made from renewable materials, they're non-toxic, and they biodegrade naturally. Plus, we're launching a take-back program so nothing goes to waste.
Read our sustainability promise β
Q: PHA vs recycled plastic - what's the difference?
A: Recycling is important, but recycled plastic reuses existing materials that degrade in quality β increasing toxicity β and still end up in landfills and waterways. PHA is non-toxic and completely returns to nature after playtime's over.
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π The Company
Q: Is anyone else making PHA pet toys?
A: Nope! While PHA is used in food packaging and some consumer products, Phaws is the first and only brand making biodegradable PHA dog toys. We're pioneering this space! π
Learn more about our story β
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π¦ Ordering & Shipping
Q: What's your return policy?
A: 30-day satisfaction guarantee! If you or your pup aren't happy, we'll make it right.
Full shipping & returns policy β
π Return policy details
We offer a 30-day satisfaction guarantee. If you're not completely satisfied with your PHA product, contact us for a full refund or exchange. We stand behind the quality and safety of our sustainable products.
Return Conditions:
- Wear from pet use is expected and acceptable
- Custom 3D printed toys can be returned if there are quality issues
- Original packaging not required
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Still have questions?
We're here to help! Reach out anytime:
- Email: hello@phaws.co
- Interest Form: Get updates & free samples
πΎ Join us in revolutionizing pet care - because our furry friends and planet deserve better.