How We Chose
We selected these toy safety tips by considering age-appropriateness, clear safety guidelines, quality of materials, developmental value, convenience for families, and overall value. Our recommendations are rooted in up-to-date safety standards and best practices for 2025.
1. Always Check Age Grading — The First Line of Defense
Why it stands out
Age grading is more than a suggestion—it’s a critical safety guideline based on small parts, strength, and developmental abilities. Following manufacturer age recommendations helps prevent hazards like choking or injury.
Best for
- New parents building a toy collection
- Gifting relatives and friends
Key notes
- Age/Stage: All ages—read packaging and labels
- Materials/Ingredients: N/A
- Strengths: Reduces risk of accidents, ensures developmental fit
- Trade-offs: May limit options if shopping for siblings of different ages
2. Watch for Choking Hazards — Small Parts Are Serious
Why it stands out
Choking is a leading cause of toy-related injury in young children. Use a small parts tester or a toilet paper tube to identify potential hazards for kids under 3. Avoid toys with detachable pieces or loose buttons for infants and toddlers.
Best for
- Infants and toddlers under 3
- Families with mixed-age children
Key notes
- Age/Stage: Birth–3 years
- Materials/Ingredients: N/A
- Strengths: Simple, effective risk reduction
- Trade-offs: Some desired toys may not be safe for younger siblings
3. Prioritize Non-Toxic, Durable Materials — Safer for Little Hands and Mouths
Why it stands out
Babies and toddlers explore by mouthing toys. Choose products made from BPA-free plastics, untreated wood, and lead-free paints. Look for certifications (ASTM, CPSIA, JPMA) that signal rigorous safety testing.
Best for
- Eco-conscious families
- Children with sensitivities or allergies
Key notes
- Age/Stage: Birth–preschool
- Materials/Ingredients: BPA-free plastics, solid wood, food-grade silicone, certified textiles
- Strengths: Reduces exposure to harmful chemicals, durable construction
- Trade-offs: May cost more than basic plastic alternatives
4. Inspect Toys Regularly — Wear and Tear Can Create Hazards
Why it stands out
Toys can break, exposing sharp edges or small parts. Make it a habit to check for cracks, frayed cords, loose parts, and worn paint. Promptly discard or repair any toy showing signs of damage.
Best for
- Active children
- Families with hand-me-downs or secondhand toys
Key notes
- Age/Stage: All ages
- Materials/Ingredients: All types
- Strengths: Keeps play environment safe as toys age
- Trade-offs: Regular checks can be time-consuming
5. Supervise Play — Especially with New or Complex Toys
Why it stands out
Supervision helps ensure safe use, prevents misuse, and lets you intervene if a toy breaks or proves too challenging. It’s especially important during group play or when introducing a new toy to your child.
Best for
- Babies and toddlers
- Playdates and mixed-age gatherings
Key notes
- Age/Stage: Birth–3 years (and beyond for complex toys)
- Materials/Ingredients: N/A
- Strengths: Prevents accidents, promotes learning through guided play
- Trade-offs: Requires caregiver attention and time
6. Watch for Recalls — Stay Informed, Stay Safe
Why it stands out
Even reputable brands sometimes recall toys due to safety issues. Sign up for alerts from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and check recall lists before buying secondhand or older toys.
Best for
- Parents buying used toys
- Families with large toy collections
Key notes
- Age/Stage: All ages
- Materials/Ingredients: All types
- Strengths: Prevents exposure to known hazards
- Trade-offs: Requires ongoing attention to news and updates
7. Keep Batteries and Magnets Out of Reach — Hidden Dangers
Why it stands out
Batteries (especially button cells) and high-powered magnets can cause severe injury if swallowed. Only select toys with secure, screw-closed battery compartments and avoid toys with loose magnets for young children.
Best for
- Infants and toddlers
- Children prone to mouthing objects
Key notes
- Age/Stage: Birth–preschool
- Materials/Ingredients: Electronic toys, building sets
- Strengths: Prevents dangerous ingestion incidents
- Trade-offs: May limit choices for certain electronic or magnetic toys
8. Choose Easy-to-Clean Toys — Hygiene Matters
Why it stands out
Babies put toys in their mouths and toss them on the floor. Select toys with smooth surfaces, minimal crevices, and machine-washable fabrics. Clean toys regularly to reduce germs and allergens.
Best for
- Infants and toddlers
- Families managing allergies or frequent illness
Key notes
- Age/Stage: Birth–preschool
- Materials/Ingredients: Silicone, solid plastics, machine-washable fabrics
- Strengths: Promotes hygiene, easy to maintain
- Trade-offs: Some plush or specialty toys require special care
9. Store Toys Safely — Prevent Trips, Falls, and Mix-Ups
Why it stands out
Proper storage prevents accidents and keeps unsafe toys out of reach of younger siblings. Use bins, shelves, or boxes, and separate toys by age group and hazard level. Avoid leaving toys on stairs or walking paths.
Best for
- Families with children of multiple ages
- Busy households
Key notes
- Age/Stage: All ages
- Materials/Ingredients: N/A
- Strengths: Reduces risk of falls, choking, and confusion between safe/unsafe toys
- Trade-offs: Requires consistent effort to maintain organization
Buying Tips
When shopping for toys, always read age grading and warning labels. For babies under 3, avoid toys with small parts, magnets, or batteries unless securely enclosed. Check materials for certifications like ASTM or CPSIA, and opt for non-toxic, easy-to-clean options. Watch for common allergens (especially in plush toys or play dough), and consider your child’s developmental stage when choosing textures and features. Durable construction and simple cleanup make playtime safer and more convenient. Store toys by age and hazard level to prevent mix-ups and accidents.
Verdict
Every family can benefit from strong toy safety habits. For infants and toddlers, prioritize age-appropriate toys with non-toxic materials, no small parts, and easy cleaning. Older kids may enjoy more complex toys, but supervision and regular safety checks remain important. Stay informed about recalls and store toys safely to protect all children in the home. This is not medical advice. For specific safety concerns or incidents, consult your pediatrician or local child safety resources.
Some of the high-quality non-toxic toys are a bit outside our budget. Are there safe but affordable brands or types you recommend for babies at this stage, or ways to prioritize which toys to spend more on?
It’s understandable to want the safest toys for your baby without overspending. To prioritize, focus on a few essential open-ended toys made of natural materials, like untreated wood or food-grade silicone. Check for safety certifications (like ASTM or CPSIA compliance) even in budget brands, and avoid toys with small parts or loose pieces for babies under 12 months. Local or handmade toys can be affordable and safe—just verify finishes are non-toxic. Rotating a small selection can keep play interesting. This isn’t medical advice; if you’re concerned, check in with your pediatrician.
As a parent interested in Montessori principles, I’m curious about toy rotation and minimizing clutter. If I’m regularly rotating toys to keep things fresh, how often should I do a full safety inspection for wear and tear as suggested in tip 4?
It’s great that you’re focusing on both Montessori principles and toy safety. Since you’re already rotating toys, plan to do a thorough safety check each time you swap toys in and out—typically every 2 to 4 weeks. Look for loose parts, sharp edges, broken pieces, and choking hazards, especially if your child is under age 3. Wipe down toys to check for cracks or mold. Always supervise play and choose age-appropriate items. This isn’t medical advice; if you’re concerned, check in with your pediatrician.
Some of our toys are hand-me-downs from older cousins. How often should I inspect these for wear and tear, and are there specific signs of damage that are easy to miss with wooden or silicone toys?
It’s wise to be vigilant about hand-me-down toys, especially since wear and tear can happen over time. For both wooden and silicone toys, inspect them every 1–2 months or sooner if your child is a frequent chewer or thrower. Look for splinters, cracks, or chipped paint on wooden toys, and for silicone, watch for tears, sticky patches, or changes in texture. Always check for loose parts or sharp edges that could be a choking hazard, especially for children under 3. This isn’t medical advice; if you’re concerned, check in with your pediatrician.
My twins are four but one is very interested in puzzles made for older kids. Is it ever safe to adjust the age grading suggestions if I feel she’s ready, as long as I supervise, or should I stick strictly to the manufacturer’s recommendations?
It’s wonderful that you want to nurture your twins’ interests while keeping them safe. Age grading on toys is about more than skill—it considers small parts, choking risks, and materials that might not be safe for younger kids. If your child is drawn to older puzzles, first check for small pieces and choking hazards, and always supervise closely. Encourage her with larger-piece puzzles designed for her age, or try puzzles just one step above. Every child is different, but safety guidelines exist for a reason. This isn’t medical advice; if you have concerns, check in with your pediatrician.
Do you have any practical tips for supervising play with multiple children at home, especially at naptime or in the evening when routines are more hectic? I find it challenging to monitor everyone’s toy use during those busy hours.
It’s completely understandable to feel stretched during busy times like naptime or evenings. Try setting up a designated play area where you can easily see all the children at once, and limit the number of toys out to reduce clutter and risk. Choose age-appropriate toys for each child and separate items with small parts if there are younger siblings. Encourage older kids to help tidy up and watch out for their younger siblings. Always do a quick toy check before and after play, especially when you’re tired. This isn’t medical advice; if you’re concerned, check in with your pediatrician.
Is there a recommended way to handle toy safety when you have a 3-year-old and an older sibling who sometimes gets gifts with small parts? It can be tricky to make sure the younger child doesn’t get hold of anything unsafe.
You’re right to be cautious—balancing different ages and toy safety can be challenging. Start by designating separate play areas or bins for toys with small parts, keeping them out of reach of your 3-year-old. Teach your older child why some toys must stay off the floor or table when little siblings are nearby. Supervise mixed-age play and do regular sweeps of shared spaces for stray pieces. Always check toys for broken or loose parts that could be a hazard. This isn’t medical advice; if you’re concerned, check in with your pediatrician.
I noticed you mention checking toys regularly for wear and tear. How often would you recommend doing a full inspection, especially for toddlers who play pretty rough? Should I be looking every week or is once a month usually enough?
It’s great that you’re thinking ahead about keeping your toddler’s toys safe. For toddlers—especially those who play energetically—doing a quick visual check at least once a week helps catch broken pieces, sharp edges, or loose parts before they become hazards. Set aside time for a more thorough inspection monthly, looking at seams, batteries, and moving parts. Always supervise playtime, especially with small or breakable pieces. This isn’t medical advice; if you’re concerned or notice any unsafe changes, check in with your pediatrician.
How do you balance between choosing durable, sensory-friendly materials and staying within a reasonable budget? I find that some of the safer options can get expensive, especially when replacing hand-me-downs.
It’s understandable to want safe, sensory-friendly toys for your child without overspending. Try prioritizing just a few key toys made from durable, non-toxic materials and rotate them to keep things fresh. You might also look for gently used options from trusted sources, making sure to inspect for wear, small parts, or missing labels. Simple household items like soft cloths or silicone kitchen tools can sometimes serve as safe sensory play options, especially for young children. Always supervise play and watch for choking hazards with little ones. This isn’t medical advice; if you’re concerned, check in with your pediatrician.
For families with older children and infants sharing play spaces, what are your recommendations for safely managing toys with small parts? Is it better to keep all toys with small pieces stored away or are there practical ways to let older kids play while minimizing risks for toddlers?
It’s great that you’re thinking ahead about keeping both your infant and older children safe during play. Consider setting up separate play zones: a designated area where older children can safely use toys with small parts, while your infant has access only to age-appropriate toys. Always supervise mixed-age play closely. Store toys with small pieces in secure containers out of reach of little ones, and teach older children the importance of cleaning up after themselves. Regularly check the play area for stray pieces. This isn’t medical advice; if you’re concerned, check in with your pediatrician.
As a parent on a budget, I often see affordable sensory toys made from plastic that may not be BPA-free. How big of a safety difference does BPA-free or certified material really make if my toddler only uses these toys for brief, supervised periods?
It’s understandable to want safe options while also sticking to a budget. For brief, supervised play, the risk from BPA or uncertified plastics is likely lower—especially if your toddler isn’t mouthing or chewing the toys. Still, try to choose toys without sharp edges and inspect them for cracks that could harbor bacteria. Wash hands after play, and avoid using these toys for food or drink. For toddlers under three, avoid toys with small detachable parts to prevent choking. This isn’t medical advice; if you’re concerned, check in with your pediatrician.
Our child has some sensory sensitivities, and I want to encourage exploration with both open-ended and educational toys. Are there particular safety considerations or certifications I should look for in sensory-friendly options beyond what you mentioned about non-toxic materials?
It’s wonderful that you want to support your child’s sensory exploration while keeping safety in mind. For sensory-friendly toys, besides choosing non-toxic materials, look for certifications like ASTM F963 and EN71, which ensure rigorous safety testing. Select toys labeled BPA-free and avoid any with strong scents or phthalates, which can be irritating for sensitive kids. Ensure parts are large enough to prevent choking, especially for children under three, and always supervise play with textured or squishy items. Watch for loose fibers or beads, as these could pose ingestion or inhalation risks. This isn’t medical advice; if you’re concerned, check in with your pediatrician.
You mention regular toy inspections, but my child has a lot of plush toys and blocks scattered around. Do you have tips for making the inspection process quicker or a storage method that helps keep potentially unsafe toys separate?
You’re doing your best to keep your child safe, and it can feel overwhelming with so many toys. Try setting up separate bins for plush toys and smaller items like blocks—clear containers help you spot damage quickly. Once a week, pick a time to scan a batch of toys, checking for loose seams, broken parts, or missing pieces. Encourage your child to help pick up, which makes it easier to notice issues as you tidy. For younger kids, keep repaired or questionable toys out of reach until you inspect them. This isn’t medical advice; if you’re concerned, check in with your pediatrician.
Since the age grading on toys sometimes covers a broad range, how flexible can I be with toys labeled for 18 months if my child is just over 12 months and seems developmentally ready for more challenging options?
It’s great that you’re tuned into your child’s readiness for new challenges. While some flexibility is possible, start by closely checking for small parts, sharp edges, or choking hazards, as safety is more important than skill level at this age. Supervise play with any new toy, especially those labeled for older children, and watch how your child interacts—if the toy gets mouthed or thrown, it may not yet be appropriate. Always consider your child’s unique developmental pace, but err on the side of caution with anything outside their age range. This isn’t medical advice; if you’re concerned, check in with your pediatrician.
For children who are particularly sensitive to loud noises or flashing lights, what should parents look out for when checking age grading or safety certifications? Sometimes even toys labeled for the right age can be too stimulating.
You’re thoughtful to consider your child’s sensory needs when choosing toys. First, test toys in the store when possible to check sound and light levels before purchase. Second, read packaging for descriptions like ‘lights and sounds’ or ‘interactive,’ and choose simpler toys without these features. Third, look for toys without batteries or electronics, as these are less likely to have unexpected noises or flashes. Fourth, contact manufacturers for more detail if safety certifications don’t mention sensory aspects. Always supervise initial play to see how your child reacts. This isn’t medical advice; if you’re concerned, check in with your pediatrician.