Every year, thousands of babies are hospitalised following accidents with toys. Many of these accidents could have been prevented by removing toys that contain small parts, sharp edges, points, magnets, batteries, strings, or cords.
Whether a toy is brand new or second-hand, it’s important to check that it does not contain small parts that could present a choking hazard. A good rule of thumb: if the toy fits through a kitchen roll cylinder, it’s not safe for young children.
General Toy Safety Guidelines
When purchasing toys, always ask yourself:
- Does the toy meet the Toys (Safety) Regulations 2011?
- Is it securely made?
- Is it non-breakable?
- Are there any sharp edges?
- Does it have small or loose parts like glass eyes, wheels, buttons, magnets, or batteries
- Could it pinch or trap little fingers?
- Are there strings or cords longer than 7 inches (18 cm) that could cause strangulation?
- Is it safe for mouthing and excessive chewing?
- Is it too loud and could potentially damage hearing?
Ride-on toys, rocking horses, and bouncers require supervision, especially if your child isn't physically ready to control them. Toys left on pathways, halls, and stairs can cause trips and falls, so it’s best to store them safely when not in use.
Cot Toys
Keep your baby’s sleeping environment safe by following these guidelines:
Too many toys in the cot can help your baby climb out, risking a fall.
Soft toys can cause overheating or accidental smothering.
Toys with long hair or fur can be choking hazards.
Toys strung across the cot could break or wrap around your baby's neck.
Check that cot mobiles and hanging toys don't have small detachable parts.
Remove mobiles and hanging toys as soon as your baby shows signs of reaching and grasping.
Always remove soft toys from the cot during naps and bedtime.
Plastic Toys
Plastic toys are popular, but some can pose risks:
Avoid soft or squishy plastics, as excessive chewing can release toxic chemicals like phthalates, which can interfere with growth and development.
Look for toys labeled “phthalate-free” or “PVC-free.”
Avoid plastics marked with the number 3 (#3), polystyrene (#6), and polycarbonate (#7).
Avoid giving soft plastic toys designed for older children to babies and young children.
Contact manufacturers directly if you are unsure whether a toy is chemical-free.
Plastic wrap and Styrofoam are also dangerous if swallowed, as they can’t be dislodged easily during first aid.
Second-hand Toys
Extra care is needed when buying second-hand toys from car boot sales, charity shops, or jumble sales:
They may not meet current safety standards.
Toys for older children (like calculators, video games, and singing cards) often contain batteries, which can be life-threatening if swallowed.
Magnets can cause serious internal injuries if ingested.
Painted toys made before 1978 may contain lead, posing significant health risks to babies and children.
Toy Recalls
While most toys are safe, occasionally unsafe toys make it onto the market. If you are unsure about a toy's safety, search online for recalls or err on the side of caution and discard it.
You can check toy safety and recalls at www.saferproducts.gov.
Additional Toy Safety Measures
Remove and safely dispose of all wrappings and labels before use.
Check that toys don’t contain small parts, sharp points, batteries, magnets, or other hazards.
Inspect toys regularly for signs of wear and damage.
Always choose toys suitable for your child’s age and development stage.
Supervise young children during playtime.
Follow all instructions and warnings provided with toys.
Be mindful when visiting friends and family—other homes may not be as child-proofed.
Look for toys that meet EU Toy Safety Directive 2009/48/EC and standards EN 71-1, EN 71-2, and EN 71-8.
Toys sold in the UK should display one or more of the following:
- CE marking
- UKCA marking
- UKCA and CE marking
- UKNI and CE marking
Unsafe toys can still be found, so always shop carefully.
