Science shows that toys expose children to phthalates, bisphenols, heavy metals, brominated flame retardants, and microplastics through mouthing, skin contact, and dust ingestion. Phthalates migrate continuously out of soft PVC through all of these routes — not just during mouthing. Studies show bisphenols migrate from polyethylene and polypropylene toys into saliva at levels that can exceed safety thresholds, and heavy metals in cheap plastic toys frequently exceed EU safety limits.
This is LOW PRIORITY not because the science is reassuring, but because most children's toys are already subject to safety regulations (ASTM F963 in the US, EN71 in the EU) that restrict the worst offenders. The biggest risks come from cheap, unbranded, or vintage toys that fall outside these standards.
Laurel recommends toys made from inherently low-additive materials (solid wood with water-based or food-grade finishes, natural rubber, natural fibers, or high-quality silicone). For any plastic components, the brand must cite ASTM F963 or EN71 specifically.
Laurel avoids all soft, flexible, or squishy plastic, PVC, vinyl, recycled plastic, unverifiable or anonymous brands, second-hand and vintage toys, and composite wood (MDF, particleboard).
Tip: Be especially cautious about vintage and hand-me-down toys, as these can predate current heavy metal and phthalate restrictions.
Toys
Science showstoys expose children to phthalates, bisphenols, heavy metals, brominated flame retardants, and microplastics through mouthing, skin contact, and dust ingestion. Phthalates migrate continuously out of soft PVC through all of these routes — not just during mouthing. Studies show bisphenols migrate from polyethylene and polypropylene toys into saliva at levels that can exceed safety thresholds, and heavy metals in cheap plastic toys frequently exceed EU safety limits.
Laurel recommends toys made from inherently low-additive materials (solid wood with water-based or food-grade finishes, natural rubber, natural fibers, or high-quality silicone). For any plastic components, the brand must cite ASTM F963 or EN71 specifically.
Laurel avoids all soft, flexible, or squishy plastic, PVC, vinyl, recycled plastic, unverifiable or anonymous brands, second-hand and vintage toys, and composite wood (MDF, particleboard).
Tip: Be especially cautious about vintage and hand-me-down toys, as these can predate current heavy metal and phthalate restrictions.