Are plastic toys safe for your children?

Go to the market, look for a toy shop, and see what you find inside. It is all plastic as far as you see. Plastic toys have become a staple in many children's toy boxes. They are colorful, durable, and affordable. This is what makes them loved much by their parents. However, as with any product, there are concerns about their safety. Plastic toys are made with materials that have been questioned much. Particularly, when it comes to the chemicals that are used in their manufacture, these toys become a concern. So, are plastic toys safe for your kids? Let's take a closer look.

What are plastic toys made of?

Plastic toys are typically made from a type of plastic called polyvinyl chloride (PVC). PVC is a popular choice for toy manufacturers. This is because PVC is lightweight, strong, and resistant to moisture and chemicals. However, it contains chemicals called phthalates, which are used to make the plastic flexible and soft. Phthalates are known to be harmful to human health, particularly when they are ingested or come into contact with the skin. For a very long studies are being done on it. These chemicals have been linked to a range of health problems like reproductive and developmental issues. This is been shown time and time again in the studies. Not only this, but phthalates are also found in hair care products like shampoo. Products containing these chemicals are usually asked to be avoided.

To address these concerns, some countries have introduced regulations to limit the use of phthalates in children's toys. For example, the European Union has banned the use of certain phthalates in toys and other children's products. However, not all countries have adopted these regulations; also, where regulations exist, enforcement can be difficult. This usually happens in third-world countries where laws are not sturdy and are exploited for monetary gains.

In addition to phthalates, plastic toys may also contain other chemicals that are of concern. For example, some plastics may contain bisphenol A (BPA). This chemical has been linked to a range of health problems, including cancer, diabetes, and reproductive issues. BPA has been banned in some countries, but it is still used in some plastic products, including toys. Taking note of all these things, as parents, toys might seem a bit concerning.

So, what can you do to ensure that the plastic toys your children play with are safe?

How to ensure that toys are safe for your kids?

Children are usually more vulnerable to harmful chemicals. Not only does their skin remain in contact with these toys, children often chew them. This lead to plastic and other chemicals entering their digestive system and getting absorbed by their blood. In long term, this leads to deadly diseases like cancer. So, how to look for toys that are not harmful?

• Look for toys that are labeled as phthalate-free or BPA-free.

• Avoid toys that are made from PVC, as these are more likely to contain phthalates.

• Choose toys that are made from alternative materials, such as wood, metal, or natural rubber.

• Read the labels and packaging carefully to learn more about the materials used in the toy's manufacture.

• If you have concerns about a particular toy, consider contacting the manufacturer or retailer to ask about its safety.

Plastic toys can be safe for your children to play with, but it's important to be aware of the potential risks associated with their manufacture. Keep in mind that the safety of your child should be your prime concern. When buying toys, look for trusted sites like Shopify that sell good quality toys & games. Not only will this be convenient, but it will also be good for your pockets.