How to Know if a Toy Is Lead-Free

Toys should be both safe and fun.

All parents want to keep their children safe, and that includes monitoring their toys for toxins. Lead exposure is a major threat, and even small amounts can be damaging over time. Toys of normally reputable brands can sometimes contain lead, which leads to massive recalls. In order to ensure your children are not exposed to lead, know how to make sure their toys are safe.

Instructions

1. Visit the CDC's website (www.cpsc.gov) for recalls due to lead content. Understand that lead can be in many different materials, including plastic, fabric and vinyl.

2. Check the toy manufacturer's website. Some toy companies display their lead-free status, but be sure to do additional research if you're concerned. Conduct an online search for the product's name to see if any recalls or complaints have been listed.

3. Send toys to a lab for testing. Home lead-testing kits are not effective -- they do not provide information about how much lead is present nor are they effective for testing low levels of lead contamination.

Tips & Warnings

• Support toy companies that are dedicated to producing safe toys. Encourage friends and family to do the same.

• If you suspect a toy contains lead, take it away from your child immediately.

• If you have any concerns about your child being exposed to lead, inform your pediatrician.

References

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Toys
• Toy Safety Tips: What Kinds of Toys Can Lead Be Found In?

Resources

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
• Environmental Protection Agency: Lead Hotline -- The National Lead Information Center