When you bring a baby home, toys quickly become part of everyday life. A teether for sore gums. A rattle to keep them entertained. A soft toy for comfort.

But there’s something many parents don’t think about immediately: babies explore the world with their mouths.

Toys aren’t just for playing. Babies chew them, lick them, and hold them against their skin for long periods of time. Because of this, the materials used in baby toys matter more than we might think.

This leads many parents to ask an important question: Are plastic toys safe for babies?

Why Babies Put Everything in Their Mouth?

If your baby chews every toy you give them, it’s completely normal. Babies explore objects by mouthing them.

It helps them:

• Learn about textures
• Soothe teething discomfort
• Develop sensory awareness
• Strengthen oral muscles

Since toys often end up in a baby’s mouth, choosing safe materials becomes important especially for new born care.

Concerns Around Some Plastic Toys

Not all plastic toys are unsafe, and many brands follow safety regulations. However, some lower-quality toys may contain materials that parents prefer to avoid.

Common concerns include:

·       BPA- A chemical previously used in plastics. Many baby products are now BPA-free.

·       Phthalates- These chemicals are used to make plastics flexible and must be avoided in baby products.

·       Artificial dyes or paints- Low-quality finishes can chip or wear off with chewing.

Because of these concerns, Plastic toys don’t feel like the perfect choice and many parents now choose toys made with simpler and safer materials whenever possible.

 

Find baby safe and planet friendly toys at Eco Baby World- Organic & Sustainable Marketplace

What to Look for in Safe Baby Toys

Choosing safe toys doesn’t need to be complicated. A few simple guidelines can help.

1. Simple materials

Look for toys made with materials such as:

• natural wood

• food-grade silicone

• organic cotton fabrics

These materials are widely preferred because they are durable and baby-friendly.

2. Non-toxic finishes

If a toy is painted or colored, it should use non-toxic finishes designed for children.

3. Easy to clean

Babies drop toys constantly. Toys that can be washed easily help maintain hygiene.

4. Age-appropriate design

Simple toys without small detachable pieces are safest for young babies.

The Types of Toys Babies Actually Need

It’s easy to accumulate toys quickly, but babies only need a small variety to support development.

Some useful categories include:

Teething toys

Neem wood teethers help soothe sore gums and keeps parents stress free about ingesting harmful chemicals. 

Grasping toys

Rattles or grasp toys help babies practice holding and coordinating their hands.

Sensory toys

Different textures encourage exploration and sensory development.

Soft toys

Soft toys provide comfort and sensory stimulation. Choose toys made with 100% cotton cover and filling. Find the finest crochet and fabric toys HERE.

At Eco Baby, we carefully select toys designed with simple, baby-safe & planet-friendly materials so parents can feel confident about what their little ones are playing with. You can explore thoughtfully curated options in Eco Baby’s Toy collection

Why Many Parents Are Choosing Fewer Toys

Today, babies often receive more toys than they can realistically play with. But many parenting experts now recommend fewer, better toys instead of large collections.

When babies have fewer toys available, they tend to:

• focus longer

• explore more deeply

• stay engaged for longer periods

Choosing toys that are safe, durable, and thoughtfully designed often works better than buying many inexpensive options.

Don’t Forget About Baby’s Sensitive Skin

Babies have delicate skin that can react to rough fabrics, harsh detergents, or strong fragrances. Because toys stay in close contact with baby skin, it’s helpful to keep both toys and skincare routines gentle. Many parents prefer simple routines using mild cleansers, moisturizers, and soft fabrics to keep baby skin comfortable.

A Quick Toy Safety Checklist

Before buying a toy, ask yourself:

✔ Does it have a strong chemical smell?

✔ Are there small pieces that could come loose?

✔ Is the material safe for chewing?

✔ Can it be cleaned easily?

✔ Is it appropriate for my baby’s age?

If a toy checks these boxes, it’s more likely to be a safe choice for everyday play.

The Bottom Line

Babies don’t need dozens of toys to learn and grow. What matters most is choosing toys that are safe, simple, and designed for little hands and curious mouths.

Many parents today are shifting toward a “less but better” approach, selecting toys made from thoughtful materials that support safe and meaningful play.

Because when toys are safe and well designed, both babies and parents can enjoy playtime with a little more peace of mind. If you’re looking for safer toy and skincare options, you can explore our collection here!

 

References

This blog is based on credible research and regulatory guidance:

·        American Academy of Pediatrics – Guidelines on safe toys, child development, and sensory play

·        U.S. Food and Drug Administration – Information on BPA and plastic safety

·        Centers for Disease Control and Prevention – Infant development and mouthing behavior

·        HealthyChildren.org – Practical parenting advice on toys and safety

·        Environmental Working Group – Research on chemicals in consumer products

·        National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences – Information on phthalates and environmental exposures