Being popular in the market, plastic toys come in many different shapes and forms. They are cheap and very attractive for kids of all ages. But is it safe for us if we buy plastic toys for our children? Are plastic toys toxic? First, you should know there is no such thing as safe plastic. There are different levels of toxicity in plastics, which can come from the additives present in the plastics at the time of making or later during its use. So you should avoid buying any kind of plastics if it is not an absolute necessity for your child. There are many reasons to do so.

A common toxic additive in toys are lead, this toy material contains a high percentage of lead which is very harmful to children.

Lead:

You probably know that plastic, in general, isn’t super healthy, but you might not know that some common toxic additives used in plastic toys are lead. Most of us don’t think of our children mouthing the toys they play with, but it’s actually common, especially when they are younger. Plastic toys are made with small amounts of lead, a toxic metal that can cause developmental problems in children. Manufacturers are required to use less than 0.06% of the weight of lead in plastic toys. There are some simple steps you can take to reduce your child’s exposure to harmful chemicals in toys, including checking labels on the products you buy, not “gifting” plastic toys at baby showers or holidays, and choosing durable, wooden or cloth alternatives when possible.

BPA:

 BPA, or Bisphenol A, is a controversial chemical additive that has been appearing in plastic products for over 50 years. It’s particularly common in plastic toys and bottles. Our eco-friendly toys and bottles were designed to make your life easier: while BPA can harden plastic and make it shatter-resistant, our safe, superior alternative makes our products softer and more durable while eliminating harmful chemicals from your baby’s environment.

Phthalates:

Phthalates in plastic toys is a common toxic additive that is found in many plastic toys. Phthalates are very harmful, especially to small children. However, if one knows what to look for when buying toys for small children for Christmas, Easter, birthday presents, etc., then you can make sure that these toys are phthalate-free.

Safe toys which we can use instead of plastic:

Bamboo and wood toys:

Bamboo and wood toys are a great option to replace plastic toys. This is because they are non-toxic, durable and will last a long time. Therefore no harm will be done to the environment. Bamboo and wood toys also have a natural look and feel to them which make them fun for kids.

Soft toys:

Soft toys are a good option to replace plastic toys. Soft toys are always better than plastic toys, for babies up to 3 years old. It is always better to avoid giving your kid plastic toys as it is never good for the health of the kid, especially for the eyes.

Wrapping up:

 Think twice before purchasing plastic toys for your baby. Many parents find themselves wondering if plastic toys are safe for their children, and they need to know the answer to that question. Plastic is a toxic material, and children put everything in their mouths. Avoiding all plastic from your child’s toy chest is the only way to completely eliminate exposure to these harmful chemicals. Soft toys and bamboo toys can be used instead of plastic toys.