Lead Free Safer Toys to Trust

As the parent of an active and curious toddler, I am very concerned about finding safer, lead-free toy options for my child.

I found information about the brands you can count on, retailers that highlight European or North American manufactured toys and/or test their own stock, and how to better ensure your child's safety.

I've been putting this information on my Toys to Trust Guide on Mamanista, and will try to update on here, too.

1. Buy American (or European or Canadian): Western nations have stricter oversight, which is one of the reasons toys made in these countries are more expensive. Consider purchasing fewer toys and looking for higher quality items that are not only healthier, but are built to last.
2. Know Your Brands: Buying from certain countries is not a guarantee of the toy's safety and there are some brands, like Melissa and Doug, who manufacture affordable quality toys in China but are committed to proper oversight and high standards. Even HABA, a well-respected German brand, manufactures many of its toys outside of Europe and even uses some factories in China. Each parent has to make his or her own decision, but I believe that responsible companies that use their own factories and/or U.S. inspectors can make safe toys in China. If you want to know about a brand's safety record, search recalls at CPSC to make sure the brand has not had any recalls for lead paint or other hazardous materials.

3. Shop Smart: Some online retailers have done a lot of the homework for you. They have sections with toys manufactured in North America or Europe, carry toys that are made from natural and non-toxic materials, and some have handmade selections. Many perform their own checks on their stock.
4. Shop Local: Rather than looking for the cheapest price at the largest chain, talk to your local shopkeeper. Because he or she lives in your community, you wil probably get more responsible advice about selecting toys that meet your needs and standards.
5. Follow Age Guidelines: Toys must meet standards for specific age groups to be certified as safe. While lead paint and dangerous chemicals have no place in toys for any age group, toys designed for older children may pose a choking hazard for babies and toddlers.
6. Use Common Sense: Ultimately, it is up to you to protect your child. If the toy is made entirely of fabric, obviously lead paint and plastic are not concerns. Check seams and joints to make sure the toy will not come apart in young hands. Look for small pieces that might break off and become choking hazards. Always trust your instincts, if it seems unsafe or inappropriate, do not give it to your child.

1. Roy Toy: Wood Building Sets that are still made in the USA
2. Plan Toys: Mostly manufactured in Thailand and made from plantation rubberwood. Lots of great pull and push toys and musical instruments for older babies and toddlers.

3. ImagiPLAY: Some products (like the giant stacking blocks) are made in the USA while their wood puzzles are made in Sri Lanka at fair wage factories with non-toxic dyes and paints.
4. Melissa and Doug: Manufactured in China, but in a dedicated factory under supervisors hired in the US.
5. HearthSong: Mostly manufactured in Thailand and none have been recalled for lead-paint concerns.
6. Crayola: Check the packages because some are made in the USA and others are made in China. Crayola has been an industry leader in keeping kids healthy and taking initiative to keep their products safe for children.