Identifying Unsafe Toys: A Guide to Keeping Your Kids Safe

February 5, 2025

February 5, 2025

Toys play a crucial role in childhood development. They enhance children’s cognitive, physical, and emotional skills. However, not all toys are safe. Parents and caregivers must be aware of the dangers posed by poorly designed or defective toys.

Beautiful african american toddler playing with small building blocks that could be unsafe toys
Source: DepositPhotos.com

The most common injuries from unsafe toys include choking, cuts, bruises, and even more serious injuries like head trauma. Recognizing these dangers can significantly improve your child’s safety.

Here are some tips to keep your little one safe from the unsafe toys out there.

Check for Choking Hazards

Choking is one of the leading causes of injury or death from toys. Small parts, like buttons, beads, or detachable components, are riskier, especially for younger children who tend to put things in their mouths.  

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) warns that toys for children under three years old should not contain small parts to fit into a standard choke tube. If the toy has small pieces that can quickly come off, remove them before handing them to your child.

Ensure Age-Appropriate Toys

The simplest way to avoid the risk of unsafe toys is to buy toys according to the child’s age. Toys meant for older children may have sharp edges or be made of unsafe materials, affecting younger kids. 

For example, a toy intended for a five-year-old might have parts that could harm a toddler if mishandled. Along with adhering to age guidelines, pay close attention to the manufacturer’s instructions and warnings about usage and safety features.

Look for Toxic Materials

Children are particularly vulnerable to harmful chemicals, as they often explore toys with their mouths. Toys made from materials containing lead, phthalates, or other toxic substances cause serious health risks, particularly when these materials break down over time.

In the United States, the CPSC regulates the amount of phthalates and lead in children’s toys. However, not all manufacturers follow these standards, and there have been cases where toys imported from other countries may not meet U.S. safety regulations. Look for certifications like ASTM International or a label indicating that the product is free of toxic materials.

Avoid Toys with Sharp Edges or Points

Toys with sharp edges, points, or projectiles may cause cuts and puncture wounds, especially for younger children who may not be so careful. Toys such as dart guns, swords, or plastic tools should be checked for sharpness before use.

Toys made of glass or brittle plastics are also potentially hazardous because small pieces of glass or plastic might break off if the toy is dropped or broken.

Inspect for Strong and Durable Construction

Quality design can be a major determinant of a toy’s safety. Poorly made toys can break easily, leading to small, loose parts that create choking hazards or larger pieces that could cause cuts or other injuries.

Always opt for sturdy and robust toys to withstand rough playing. A solid toy will not easily malfunction or break, minimizing the chances of injury. One must always ensure the fastenings, stitching, or mechanisms are adequately attached to prevent injury through potential breakages.

How a Lawyer Can Help If an Unsafe Toy Injures Your Child

If an unsafe toy injures your child, several steps must be taken to ensure their well-being and protect your legal rights. Under product liability laws, manufacturers, retailers, and distributors are responsible for providing safe products to consumers. You may have grounds for a legal claim if they fail in that duty. A lawyer specializing in product liability can be instrumental in navigating the complexities of a case involving an unsafe toy.

They can thoroughly investigate the cause of the injury, gather evidence, and determine whether the toy’s design, manufacturing, or failure to warn was responsible. In addition, they will negotiate with insurance companies or manufacturers to seek reasonable compensation for medical expenses, pain and suffering, and other losses.

Protecting your children from unsafe toys requires vigilance and attention to detail. Safety should always be the top priority, and being proactive about toy selection is one of the most effective ways to shield your children from harm.


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