Understanding Toxins in Toys
Lead, Bisphenol, and Phthalates in Toys
Many Americans believe that toys made in the United States are safe, but most products labeled as made in the USA are not actually made in the United States. A toy or other product does not need to be made in the USA, only finished or packaged here in order to be labeled "Made in the USA." Most of our products are made in other countries and labeled as made in the USA because they have been assembled here or stamped with a logo. The pieces are usually made in other countries where labor is cheaper.
Wooden toys also may not be safe. Many wooden toys are painted with paints that contain lead or are varnished with toxic varnishes. Wooden toys may be carcinogenic if treated in any way. Natural wooden toys are the safest because they have not been treated or painted. If you choose wooden toys, it is important to know that the only toys considered safe are toys made in Europe, specifically Germany and Switzerland where strict laws and high standards ensure the quality and safety of their toys.
Plastic toys also contain high levels of toxins, especially soft plastic toys. High levels of lead, phthalates, and bisphenols leach from plastics as they age and are absorbed through the skin during play as well as the mouth if children suck or chew on these items. These carcinogens remain in the body for life and build up over the years, causing brain damage, cancer, and other disease. To date, no plastic toys are considered safe. Plush and cloth toys are not always safe. The cloth and filling are often made from plastics such as rayon, polyester, and acrylic. It's best to avoid plastic toys, especially for children who are still sucking or chewing on their toys.
Safe alternative toys include handmade toys from wool, cotton, untreated woods and non-toxic acrylic paints. Glass toys such as marbles are also toxin-free. Be wary of metal toys and plastics of any kind.
Published by Amber S.
I am a young work-at-home-mom living in Hawaii. I am a wife, professional writer, photographer, web designer, and artist. I also create handmade jewelry. Check out my work at amberskyfire.etsy.com. View profile
- Even Very Low Levels of Lead Causes Brain Damage in ChildrenEven small amounts of lead can cause permanent brain damage, says a new research study. Researchers have recommended that the government reevaluate lead safety standards and make appropriate changes.
Study: Many Popular Lipsticks Contain High Levels of LeadThe Campaign for Safe Cosmetics has just released the results of a study revealing that several top-selling lipsticks are contaminated with lead.- Government Issues Recall Warnings on More Lead Based ProductsFrom kids manicure kits to keychains, more items from China are found to have high levels of lead.
Children's Pencil Pouches Recalled Because of Lead Hazard"Stuf Keepers" and "Fuzzy Bear" pencil pouches, manufactured by Raymond Geddes & Co., have been recalled for excessive lead in the paint used on the zippers. - Understanding Lead Poisoning and Signs and Symptoms of Lead PoisoningLead poisoning is most dangerous to small children because it can get into their bodies and affect the developing brain and organs. Lead exposure occurs when too much lead builds up in the body over a period of time.
- Buying Guide for Natural Toys
- 10 Wooden Toys for Toddlers
- Know the Danger of Lead Poisoning in Your Children
- Why Buy Wooden Toys for Your Children?
- Guide to Buying Safe Toys
- The History and Success of BRIO Kids Toys
- Children's Toys Tainted with Toxic Chemicals
- Toys do not need to be made in the United States in order to be labeled "Made in the USA."
- Soft plastic and vinyl toys are some of the most toxic toys on the market.
- Toys made in Europe, especially Germany and Switzerland are the safest toys on the market today.
9 Comments
Post a CommentNo. What this article is really saying is that toxins are being used by many companies; so stop buying your kids crazy plastic toys and stuff for Christmas and Bdays. Really, make sure what you are bringing into your abode; to your babies, especially.
Though the article does specify that most of the toxic stuff found in Made In America toys are from those made outside of this country with a little label attached MIA. To save a few dollars, the companies went outside for labor and product parts. They sell them to US cheaper, but why did they have to wake up the sleeping giants to do that? Now we have to contend more and more with them, because their cost of living is so low. Meanwhile, they will destroy our air (unintentionally) being so enormous, people wise... unless once again, we create a great, clean technology, which they will come over to check out and rip off, so that they can eventually hire US at substandard everything! Just check out all the foreign companies already
Amber - I'm so glad you covered this important topic
Very informative article and important topic!
very good topic! excellent article and helpful :)
Interesting article!
Very informative!..............I am glad you clarified that many toys made here can cause toxicity as well....................I guess all products should be tested on a regular basis.....................something that the govt. should pay more attention to................................
Informative!
Great topic Amber...good to see ya again girl!!
Very interesting article, useful and very nicely written.