A specific time should be allowed for checking the safety in toys. Parents should look for durable materials, secure parts and appropriate sizes. Toys with small detachable pieces may pose a choking risk for young children. Before buying, caregivers should read safety information and consider whether the toy is suitable for the child’s abilities. Look for durable items that can survive being dropped or chewed on, as safety is paramount.
Check these key points for toy safety and quality before buying:
- Age Recommendations: Match the toy’s age label to the child’s exact age to prevent choking hazards from small parts anything that can fit through a toilet-paper tube.
- Non-Toxic Materials: Look for labels stating “lead-free”, “BPA-free, ” “phthalate-free,” and “non-toxic” on plastics and paints. Prefer toys made of food-grade silicone, solid wood with non-toxic finishes, or certified organic fabrics. Avoid strong chemical smells.
- Sturdy Construction: Squeeze, shake, and pull gently in the store. Quality toys feel solid, with tight seams and no flimsy plastic that cracks easily. Avoid toys that break easily, have sharp edges, weak seams or feature loose parts like poorly attached eyes on stuffed animals.
- No Long Cords or Strings: Ensure pull toys or mobiles do not have long cords to avoid strangulation risks.
- Safe Electrical Parts: Pick electronic toys that are labeled “UL Approved” or “UL Listed” to prevent shocks and overheating.
- Smooth Surfaces: Verify that plastic toys are free from sharp burrs or jagged injection-molded seams, and wooden toys are thoroughly sanded & splinter-free smooth and metal toys have no rust or sharp burrs.
- Loudness Check: Test the sound level if possible; loud noises can damage a child’s hearing if held close to the ear.
- Recall Check: Choose well-known brands and Look up the brand or product online to ensure it has not been recalled for safety issues.
- Safety Certifications: Look for marks like ASTM F963 (US), EN 71 (Europe), CE, or CPC (Children’s Product Certificate) compliance, or local safety standards.
- Battery Safety: Battery compartments should be screw-secured (not just snap shut) to prevent access to button batteries, check for overheating risks in electronic toys.
- Easy to Clean: Prefer machine-washable soft toys or smooth, wipe-able surfaces that won’t harbor dirt or mold.
- Real-user Reviews: Read recent parent reviews focusing on long-term durability, safety issues, and actual play value rather than just star ratings.
- Safe Fasteners: Check that fasteners like screws, nails, or staples are securely recessed or covered, and avoid toys held together with thin wire that could poke through.