Non‑Toxic Picture Frames: Materials to Trust and How We Build Them at MAOS

Choosing the right picture frame is about more than aesthetics—it's about the safety of your home, the longevity of your memories, and your peace of mind. We're often asked, "How do I ensure my photo frame is truly non-toxic and safe?" At MAOS Maps, this question isn't theoretical—it's at the heart of how we craft every TopoPhoto Frame, merging striking design with materials you can fully trust.

Why Non-Toxic Picture Frames Matter

The average home contains numerous products that release chemicals into the air, sometimes without us even noticing. Traditional picture frames can be surprisingly problematic, often containing adhesives, finishes, or plastics that off-gas volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and other byproducts over time. This can pose risks for families with children, pets, or allergy sensitivities—and it simply doesn't align with a vision for a healthy, welcoming home.

At MAOS Maps, we know our customers want the whole package: artistry, story, and safety combined. That's why we make it our mission to source and use materials that won't ever compromise on health or environmental impact.

What Actually Makes a Frame Non-Toxic?

• Material purity: All plastics and woods must be free of additives like formaldehyde or phthalates.
• Safe adhesives: Use of water-based and plant-based glues, rather than conventional solvent-based ones.
• Low-VOC or zero-VOC finishes: No nasty fumes, even when the frame is brand new.
• Acid-free components: Mats and backing boards that won’t degrade your photos or pollute your air.

These principles guide every decision we make in our workroom, from plastic selection to the last layer of finish.

How We Build Non-Toxic Picture Frames at MAOS

Our process isn’t about mass production—it’s about attention to detail, innovation, and genuine care for what hangs in your home. Here’s a look at how we do it:

1. The Core Material: Plant-Based PLA Plastic

We 3D print each TopoPhoto Frame using polylactic acid (PLA)—a biodegradable, non-toxic plastic made from renewable sources like corn starch or sugarcane. Unlike traditional plastic, PLA is free of bisphenol A (BPA), phthalates, and other petroleum-derived additives that can leach into the air over time. When handled correctly at the end of its life, PLA leaves a much smaller environmental footprint than common options like ABS or PVC.

2. Clean, Safe Finishing

After printing, any required finishing is done with the lightest touch—either left in its natural matte state or occasionally finished with ultra-low-VOC, water-based sealants. We avoid anything that releases strong odors or could contribute to indoor air pollution. No spray finishes, no solvent-based polishes.

3. Backing and Mounting Components

Our frames use sturdy, photo-safe materials for backing—choosing acid-free alternatives to traditional foam boards that sometimes emit formaldehyde or other chemicals. All mounting hardware is selected to minimize unnecessary plastics or questionable coatings.

4. Assembly with Water-Based Adhesives

Any time adhesive is necessary (for securing backings or embedding a topographic map panel), we opt for strong, industry-tested water-based glues. These adhesives deliver a tight bond without contributing to airborne pollutants, unlike many mainstream glues.

5. Lighting—The TopoPhoto Frame LED

Our TopoPhoto Frame LED is built not just for effect, but for peace of mind. We make sure the electronics are safely separated from the photo and map components, while the housing is entirely PLA—again, no off-gassing or chemical leakage.

What Our Non-Toxic Process Means for You

• No chemical smell when you open your package—just the anticipation of a cherished map and memory made real.
• No worries about sensitive lungs: Perfect for nurseries, living rooms, or bedrooms where clean air matters.
• Long-term photo safety: Acid-free and inert materials mean your photos and artwork won't yellow or degrade with time.
• Durability with a conscience: PLA frames hold up beautifully, withstanding knocks and sunlight, all while being thoughtfully designed for eventual recycling or composting in the right facilities.

How to Choose a Non-Toxic Picture Frame for Your Space

Not every frame on the market is created equal. Here’s what we recommend clients look for—whether shopping with us or anywhere else:

1. Ask for Material Transparency: Request a full material breakdown. A reputable maker will be proud to share specifics. For us, that’s always plant-based PLA plastic, water-based adhesives, and zero-VOC finishes.
2. Sniff Test: If it smells strong or unpleasant, it probably isn’t non-toxic. None of our frames have that cloying “new plastic” odor.
3. Certifications Matter… But the Conversation Does Too: Industry-standard seals (like low-VOC, FSC, or Green Seal) help, but it’s even better when you talk directly with the people crafting your frame.
4. Acid-Free Guarantee: Confirm that both the backing and any matting are acid-free, especially for important heirloom photos.
5. Eco-Friendly End-of-Life Options: PLA can often be composted in industrial settings. Ask your local recycler about options, or reach out to us if your frame ever needs to be retired—we’ll help you handle it responsibly.

Maintaining and Enjoying Your Non-Toxic MAOS Frame

• Dust Gently: Use a microfiber cloth—avoid any harsh cleaners as the finish is already safe and durable.
• Keep Away From Excessive Moisture: While PLA is relatively resistant, like all picture frames, moisture over time isn’t friendly to any photo or art.
• Display Away from Direct Heat: To keep colors true and PLA structurally perfect, hang away from direct sources of heat.

Common Questions About Non-Toxic Frame Choices

• Is PLA truly better for the environment? PLA, made from renewable resources, is biodegradable under the right industrial conditions and doesn’t release the hazardous byproducts associated with petroleum plastics. For us, it’s an obvious choice over legacy plastics when health and sustainability are priorities.
• Do these frames protect my photos as well as traditional ones? Yes—in fact, acid-free backing and stable finishes help ensure your images last, staying vibrant and undamaged for years.
• What if I want something even more customized? No problem. We specialize in bringing your vision to life. From custom locations (city, mountain, coast) to personalized text and lighting upgrades, we always use the safest possible materials. See our full guide on how we customize at MAOS Maps for more details.

The MAOS Maps Approach: Why Our Process Matters

Being a small USA-based maker means we can uphold our values down to every screw and strand of filament. We don’t outsource or cut corners. We talk to you, get your vision, keep you updated with proofs, and deliver the frame that’s designed just for you—simple, transparent, and safe from the ground up.

If you're seeking more inspiration, we recommend exploring our past blog on sustainable photo frame materials shaping décor.

Ready to Make Your Space Safer—and More Meaningful?

Your memories deserve framing that’s as careful as it is beautiful. We’re always happy to answer questions, dive deep into custom requests, or talk about our process in detail. Discover more at MAOS Maps or browse our signature TopoPhoto - Frame LED for a non-toxic, uniquely personal way to honor your favorite places and moments.