by Splattella » 24 Jul 2011, 18:53
Everyone sets their own limits. You have to draw some lines so as not to damage your health or cause too much difficulty when cleaning up or disposing of the substance.
For instance, I won't use substances with lots of chemicals in, such as industrial paints (though kids' paints would be OK), or those needing harsh chemicals to remove as I have sensitive skin.
Most foodstuffs are good, even greasy or smelly ones, though I certainly prefer the fresh pudding varieties. Old foods have their place, too: the contents of the several days' old organic recycling bin down your knickers is a deliciously squidgy experience, and a bucket of mixed glop over your head the day after a splosh session is nice as it's separated out so you get slimy liquid first and thick sludge last. Both cold with an interesting aroma - but I appreciate that some people won't want that.
Much as I love jumping in the bath fully clothed I prefer natural water like dirty, peaty ponds and mud but not industrial site water, again because of pollutants/chemical hazards. And when outdoors you must watch out for dangers such as litter (broken bottles), metal posts, sharp sticks and similar.
I also love cowpats and would love to get all-over mucky in manure but I'm very conscious of bacteria and other hazards (E-coli anyone?) so that's probably just going to remain a dream scenario.
I'm beginning to sound like one of those old government public health adverts - "When out sploshing, boys and girls, always check for hazards. We all enjoy a jolly old pie in the face but not an accident. So make sure your messy session ends up in a nice hot bath, not down at the the horspital...!"