As parents, we all know that feeling. Your child’s eyes light up with pure, unadulterated joy when they unwrap a new toy.
It’s a moment of magic. But almost instantly, a quieter, more cautious voice in the back of your mind pipes up: “Is this safe?”
That question matters now more than ever. Our homes are filled with more playthings than any generation before, from hand-me-down treasures to the latest flashy gadget. And while safety standards exist, they aren't foolproof.
As the founder of Dannico Woodworks and a father of two, I’ve spent countless hours on the floor playing, observing, and yes, worrying.
I’ve seen how a seemingly innocent toy can have a hidden sharp edge, or how a small part can disappear in the blink of an eye.
Choosing safe toys isn't about wrapping our kids in bubble wrap. It’s about creating an environment where their natural curiosity and drive to explore are supported, not hindered by hidden risks.
It’s about peace of mind, so you can relax a little more during playtime. This guide isn't about fear; it's about empowerment.
Let's look at the 10 clear signs that a toy might be unsafe, so you can make confident choices for your little ones.
1. It Fails the "Choke Test."
This is the cardinal rule. Any toy or detachable part that can fit completely inside a toilet paper roll (or a dedicated choke test cylinder) is a choking hazard for children under three.
Don't just eyeball it—test it.
This includes small balls, marbles, game pieces, button eyes on stuffed animals, and magnets. Remember, if it can fit in the tube, it can block a small airway.
2. It Has Long Cords or Strings
Ribbons, straps, or cords longer than 7 inches (about 18 cm) can pose a strangulation risk, especially in cribs, playpens, or around the neck.
Be particularly vigilant with pull toys, clothing on dolls, or hanging mobiles.
Always remove any hanging cords or strings from areas where your child sleeps or plays unsupervised.
3. It’s Made with Flimsy, Easily Breakable Plastic
Toys that shatter or break into sharp, jagged pieces under light pressure are accidents waiting to happen. Bend plastic parts gently in the store. Does it feel brittle or does it have some flex?
Thin plastic on cheap novelty toys, poorly made figurines, and some bath toys can crack easily, creating sharp edges and small, swallowable pieces.
4. It Emits an Overpowering Chemical Smell
That strong "new toy" smell isn't a sign of freshness; it's often a red flag for volatile organic compounds (VOCs), phthalates, or other harmful chemicals. These can off-gas and be inhaled or ingested when a child puts the toy in their mouth. Trust your nose. If a plastic or foam toy has a potent, unpleasant odor, leave it on the shelf.
5. It Has Poorly Attached or Unsafe Small Parts
Look closely at how the toy is assembled. Are the eyes, noses, or buttons on a stuffed animal sewn on securely, or could they be pulled off with a firm tug?
Are the wheels on a toy car firmly attached? Any component that can be detached by little fingers—even if it seems slightly too big to choke on—can become a hazard and indicates poor construction.
6. It Features Sharp Edges, Points, or Pinching Hazards
Run your fingers along all surfaces and edges. Even a seemingly smooth metal or plastic edge can be surprisingly sharp.
Check for points, rough seams on metal toys, and hinges or folding mechanisms that could pinch tiny fingers.
Wooden toys should be sanded impeccably smooth, with no splinters—a standard we hold ourselves to with every piece at Dannico Woodworks.
7. It’s Excessively Loud
Children’s hearing is sensitive. Toys that produce loud, sharp noises—like some sirens, guns, or musical instruments—can damage their hearing over time.
If a toy sounds painfully loud to you from a short distance, it’s too loud for their developing ears.
Look for volume controls or, better yet, opt for toys that don't rely on loud sounds for engagement.
8. It Lacks Age-Appropriate Labels or Warnings
Reputable manufacturers clearly label toys with recommended age ranges. These aren't just about skill level; they are critical safety guides based on choking hazards, complexity, and developmental appropriateness.
A lack of labeling is a major red flag. Always heed the age guidelines, especially warnings for children under three.
9. It Contains Powerful Magnets or Button Batteries
These are among the most dangerous hidden hazards. Small, powerful magnets (like rare-earth magnets) or easily accessible button batteries can cause severe, life-threatening internal injuries if swallowed. If a toy contains these, the compartment must be absolutely secure, requiring a tool (like a screwdriver) to open. For young children, it’s often safest to avoid them altogether.
10. It Encourages Unsafe Use or Comes with Vague Instructions
Does the toy inherently encourage climbing on something unstable? Does a projectile toy (like a dart gun) have soft tips, and are the instructions clear about safe use? A toy’s design should promote safe play.
Vague or absent instructions, especially for assembly or use, suggest the manufacturer didn’t prioritize safety in the design process.
Frequently Asked Questions
What about second-hand or hand-me-down toys?
These can be wonderful and sustainable! However, inspect them even more rigorously. They may be worn, with parts looser than originally intended.
Check for recalls (you can search on the Consumer Product Safety Commission website), remove any batteries, and ensure they meet all the safety criteria listed above. Vintage toys, in particular, may not comply with modern safety standards.
Are wooden toys safer than plastic?
They can be, but it depends entirely on the craftsmanship. High-quality wooden toys, like those we create at Dannico Woodworks, are made from solid hardwood, finished with non-toxic, child-safe sealants, and meticulously sanded to a silky smoothness.
Poorly made wooden toys can have splinters, toxic paints, or break just as easily as bad plastic. The material matters less than the quality and safety standards behind it.
My child received an unsafe toy as a gift. What should I do?
This is a common and tricky situation. Your child's safety comes first. You can simply put the toy away "for later," explaining it's for when they're older.
If you have a close relationship with the giver, a gentle, grateful explanation ("Thank you so much for thinking of Liam!
This is so kind. I just noticed it has a few small parts he’s still too young for, so we’re going to save it for his next birthday.") often works. The key is to focus on your child's age and safety, not the gift's quality.
How can I organize toys to maintain a safe play space?
Clutter is the enemy of safety. Toys with small parts get lost underfoot, and tripping hazards abound. Functional, child-accessible storage is key to safety.
Using low, open shelves—like our Montessori Bookshelf—allows children to see and choose their toys safely, prevents piles from forming, and makes cleanup part of the play routine. You can read more about creating intentional play spaces on our blog.
Creating a Sanctuary for Play
At the heart of Dannico Woodworks is a simple belief: a child’s environment should empower them, not endanger them.
This philosophy extends beyond the furniture we build to the toys that fill those spaces. Safety isn't a luxury; it's the foundation upon which confident exploration and joyful play are built.
When you choose toys thoughtfully, you’re doing more than preventing accidents. You’re curating a world of play that nurtures development, sparks creativity, and gives you the priceless gift of tranquility.
It’s the same principle we apply to every piece of furniture: design that serves your child’s growth and your peace of mind.
I invite you to think of your child’s room as an ecosystem. The furniture forms the safe, structured, and beautiful landscape—the shelves, beds, and tables that define the space. The toys are the interactive elements within it. Both must be chosen with care and intention.
To discover more about our approach to crafting environments that grow with your child, I welcome you to visit our About Us page and explore our full collection of heirloom-quality children’s furniture.
What’s one change you can make today to create a safer, more intentional play space for your child?
