How can consumers be sure that toys are safe?
Brant Windler
2025-06-23 14:29:13
Count answers: 6
Toys made of fabric should be labeled as flame resistant or flame retardant. Paint on any toys should be lead-free. Art materials should say nontoxic. Crayons and paints should say ASTM D-4236 on the package, which means that they've been evaluated by the American Society for Testing and Materials. Always read labels to make sure a toy is appropriate for a child's age. Guidelines published by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and other groups can help you make those buying decisions. Check the CPSC website for the latest information about toy recalls or call their hotline at (800) 638-CPSC to report a toy you think is unsafe. You also can sign up to get news about the most up-to-date toy recalls. If you have any doubt about a toy's safety, do not let your child play with it.
Rylan Dach
2025-06-23 13:59:11
Count answers: 8
To check if your toy is safe, check battery compartments for accessible button batteries or loose spares in the box. Check for any loose small magnets. Give the parts on the toy a quick tug and check for small parts that come off. Look for long cords or access to stuffing. Check if there are any age restrictions or safety warnings on the product. A CE mark is required by law on any toy sold in the EU. The UKCA mark is the manufacturer’s claim that the toy complies with all UK laws and the applicable British conformity assessment procedures. The Lion Mark is a good indicator of a toy’s safety. It shows that the product has been made by a member of the British Toy and Hobby Association. But remember, safety markings could be faked. So, use your judgement. If a bargain seems too good to be true, trust your instincts and don’t rely solely on the markings. If you’re shopping for a child under 3, we recommend opting for well-known brand names and retailers if you can. The online store of a high street chain, the website of a big-name toy brand, the manufacturer of the branded toy are safer options. Be wary of toys with small or loose parts and no age warning. If the listing contradicts itself – for example, it’s described as a toddler’s toy, but elsewhere it says it’s not suitable for under 3s – think again. Look out for suspicious reviews. Before you buy something, check if it’s on the recalls list.
Mercedes Labadie
2025-06-23 13:04:53
Count answers: 14
When we buy something, it should be safe and shouldn’t cause you any harm. The law states that everything you buy must be of satisfactory quality, fit for purpose and as described. In practice this means the goods must be safe when used in a normal or reasonably foreseeable way. All toys you buy should be safe to use and this is covered by the law. The legal definition of toys are products designed or intended for use in play by children under 14 years old. It is the responsibility of all businesses in the supply and distribution chain, from manufacturer to retailers, to ensure that toys do not risk the health and safety of children. A toy must be designed and manufactured to meet essential safety requirements. Look for the manufacturer or importer's name. The manufacturer must ensure that a toy has instructions for use, safety information and warnings, as appropriate. Any warnings about hazards and risks of using a toy must be marked in a clear, visible, understandable, and legible way on the toy, label or packaging and any instructions for use. It is a business who sells the products responsibility to make sure the toy is UKCA-marked.
Jay Lakin
2025-06-23 11:01:22
Count answers: 18
Read the label, warning labels give important information about how to use a toy and what ages the toy is safe for. Be sure to show your child how to use the toy the right way. Think LARGE, make sure all toys and parts are larger than your child's mouth to prevent choking. Avoid toys that shoot objects into the air, they can cause serious eye injuries or choking. Look for stuffed toys that are well made, make sure all the parts are on tight and seams and edges are secure. Electric toys should be "UL Approved", check the label to be sure. Age recommendations on toys are important, because they help you gauge how safe the toy is. Important information about recalled toys, one of the goals of the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) is to protect consumers and families from dangerous toys. Toys that are recalled should be removed right away.
Read also
- What are the safety guidelines to consider when choosing toys?
- How would you decide if a toy is safe?
- What are the criteria for selecting toys?
- What materials are safe for children's toys?
- What makes a toy safe?
- What are three things caregivers need to evaluate when deciding if a toy?
- When buying toys What is a good characteristic to look for?
- Why is toy safety important?
- How to choose non-toxic toys?