Science shows that soft plastic bath toys leach phthalates, bisphenols, and heavy metals — with migration accelerating in warm water and during mouthing. Polyethylene and polypropylene plastics show particularly high bisphenol release into saliva. Hollow toys with squeeze openings also develop dense bacterial and fungal biofilms inside.
This is MEDIUM PRIORITY because bath toys are used for shorter periods than clothing or food items. The risks are real, but manageable with simple swaps.
Laurel recommends bath toys made from high-quality, rigid silicone from established brands. Solid construction or "mold-free" designs are preferred as they reduce trapped water. Solid natural wood, stainless steel, and organic cotton textiles are also safe materials for bath toys.
Laurel avoids all plastic bath toys (especially soft/squishy ones), as well as rubber bath toys, vintage bath toys, or anything from an unknown manufacturer.
Tip: The classic rubber duck is one of the worst offenders on both fronts — soft PVC on the outside, biofilm soup on the inside. Throw them out.
Science showssoft plastic bath toys leach phthalates, bisphenols, and heavy metals — with migration accelerating in warm water and during mouthing. Polyethylene and polypropylene plastics show particularly high bisphenol release into saliva. Hollow toys with squeeze openings also develop dense bacterial and fungal biofilms inside.
Laurel recommendsbath toys made from high-quality, rigid silicone from established brands. Solid construction or "mold-free" designs are preferred as they reduce trapped water. Solid natural wood, stainless steel, and organic cotton textiles are also safe materials for bath toys.
Laurel avoids all plastic bath toys (especially soft/squishy ones), as well as rubber bath toys, vintage bath toys, or anything from an unknown manufacturer.
Tip: The classic rubber duck is one of the worst offenders on both fronts — soft PVC on the outside, biofilm soup on the inside. Throw them out.