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Step 1
Take away any antique toys. Any toys using paint or coatings from before 1978 could have lead in it. Get rid of any old toys or if they are special, put them on display instead of using them for play.
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Step 2
Check the Consumer Product Safety Commission website of a list of recalled toys. . You can even sign up to receive alerts on future recalls. Use healthytoys.org for a list of toys which may be harmful.
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Step 3
Purchase inexpensive lead test kits found in local hardware stores. The kits work by using a chemical reaction which occurs when chemicals in the kit are exposed to lead. Usually, they are swabs which change color if lead is detected. However, these lead-paint kits are not 100% accurate, but will give you some guidance if you are concerned about lead.
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Step 4
Check the toys for clues. Toys with lead are made with a dull, grey looking metal. Pieces may seem heavy for their size. Look for bright colors such as red and orange. Some toys will use lead as a stabilizer in soft plastics. Rub toy jewelry on paper to see if it leaves a grey line. Check the underside of the toy for its origin. Avoid items from China and India where many toys with lead paint are found.
Good toys to buy for your kids are wooden toys with smooth, unfinished surfaces. If lead is found on a toy, it is often located in the paint or coating. -
Step 5
Request a blood test from your child's doctor if you believe your child has played with lead toys. A blood lead test should be done for all children less than 6 years old who have played with toys suspected of having lead. The Department of Health believes the greatest risk of lead exposure from toys comes from putting the toy in the mouth or hand-to-mouth activity.
