Choosing Safe Toys: 7 Tips

Choosing Safe Toys: 7 Tips

Choosing Safe Toys: 7 Tips

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If you’re buying gifts for any children this holiday season, it’s crucial that you choose safe toys. According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), roughly 198,000 injuries related to unsafe toys were treated in U.S. hospitals in 2020. Certain toys can cause all types of injuries, from cuts and bruises to more serious injuries, such as choking.

There are a lot of toys out there that can be unsafe for children, so it’s important to take the time and make sure you are choosing safe toys.

Tips for Choosing Safe Toys

The last thing you want to do is buy a toy for a child that poses a safety risk. As such, if you plan to buy any toys this holiday season, be sure to follow these tips:

  1. Check the age range. Be sure to look at the recommended age range listed on the package before you make a purchase. 
  2. Read reviews. Read online reviews from others who have purchased the toy. This can help you identify any potential safety issues.
  3. Look for labels. Look for the ASTM (American Society for Testing and Materials) label. This label indicates that the toy has been tested and meets the safety guidelines set by the CPSC.
  4. Avoid small loose parts. Small pieces, such as eyes on stuffed animals and removable parts, can be choking hazards for small children.
  5. Avoid toxic materials. Many toys are made of plastic and other materials that can contain toxins. Read the packaging for any warnings about chemicals.
  6. Make sure the toy isn’t flammable. Some toys, such as stuffed animals and dolls, can be made with flammable materials. Check the label to make sure it’s flame-retardant.
  7. Check recall lists. Check sites such as the CPSC and SaferProducts.gov to make sure the toy hasn’t been recalled due to a safety issue.

Following these tips will help with choosing safe toys for the children in your life this holiday season. Always use caution when selecting toys for children and always supervise them when playing with new toys. For more safety awareness information, visit us at The Benefits Store today.