Chloe Zhang
Old plastic toys can be a safety hazard, especially for children. Toys manufactured before 2008 did not have to meet the same federal safety standards as those produced after, and may contain high levels of lead paint or toxic phthalates. Even if a toy is not ingested, phthalates can end up on the floor where a child is crawling and then be transferred to their mouths. Evidence of phthalates has been found in blood, urine, and breast milk, and has been shown to disrupt the development and functioning of male and female reproductive systems. However, some people choose to keep old plastic toys for sentimental reasons, or to pass them down to their children. If you decide to keep old plastic toys, it is important to take steps to preserve them and prevent them from deteriorating.
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What You'll Learn
Old plastic toys may contain harmful chemicals
The study identified over 100 chemicals of concern, specifically examining exposure through mouthing, teethers, and pacifiers. One of the main issues with old plastic toys is the presence of phthalates, which are plasticizers used to make plastics more durable and flexible. Phthalates have been linked to various health issues, including an increased risk of asthma, cancer, obesity, diabetes, low IQ, and fertility problems. Older toys are more likely to contain higher levels of phthalates, as regulations and legal limits on these chemicals were implemented recently.
In addition to phthalates, old plastic toys may also contain lead paint, which can be hazardous if ingested. While lead paint is less common in newer toys due to stricter regulations, older toys may still contain harmful levels. It is worth noting that the older the toy, the more likely it is to contain sketchy substances. For example, a 2018 UK study found that red and yellow Lego bricks from the 1970s had high levels of cadmium, a heavy metal linked to cancer and liver and kidney problems.
Another concern with old plastic toys is the potential for brittleness and breakage, as plasticizers can dissipate over time, causing the plastic to become more fragile. This increases the risk of small parts breaking off and posing choking hazards for young children.
While the presence of harmful chemicals in old plastic toys is a valid concern, it is important to note that the risk of immediate harm is relatively low. However, prolonged exposure to these chemicals can have cumulative effects, and it is recommended to reduce exposure whenever possible. Storing old toys away from children's reach and regularly washing children's hands after playing with old toys can help mitigate the risks associated with potential chemical exposure.
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Safety standards for toys have changed over time
In 2008, the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act (CPSIA) was passed in the United States, setting stringent safety standards for toys. This law restricted the amount of lead and phthalates allowed in children's products, addressing the issue of lead paint and toxic chemicals in older toys. Lead paint was a significant concern, with nearly a million toys recalled in 2007 due to this issue. Phthalates, which give plastics a soft quality, were also recognised as toxic chemicals that needed to be regulated.
The safety standards also addressed other hazards associated with older toys, such as small parts that could pose choking hazards for young children. Magnets in older toys, for example, were not always flagged as a potential danger. Additionally, age-grading on packaging helps ensure that toys are suitable for the appropriate age group, reducing the risk of accidents.
Toy manufacturers must stay ahead of these regulatory changes and ensure their products comply with the latest safety standards. The European standard EN 71-4:2013, published in 2013, is an example of how toy safety standards are continually updated to reflect new understandings of risks and developments in the industry.
It is worth noting that while older plastic toys may not meet current safety standards, this does not necessarily mean they are unsafe. The risks associated with exposure to lead and phthalates accumulate over time, and simply touching phthalate-rich plastic is not harmful. However, it is recommended to exercise caution and ensure that children do not put old toys in their mouths, and to always supervise playtime.
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Passing down old toys to children
One of the main concerns is the presence of toxic chemicals in old plastic toys. Before 2008, toys were not subject to the same strict safety standards as they are today, and many older toys contain high levels of lead paint or toxic phthalates. These chemicals can be harmful to children, especially if they chew on the toys or put them in their mouths. In addition, older toys may also have small parts that can pose a choking hazard, as well as magnets that can be dangerous if ingested.
Despite these concerns, some people argue that it is still safe to give children old plastic toys. They suggest that touching or playing with phthalate-rich plastic is not inherently dangerous and that many people who grew up with these toys are still healthy. However, it is important to use caution when introducing old toys to children. Experts recommend waiting until a child is old enough to not put toys in their mouth and encouraging good handwashing habits after play.
When it comes to passing down old plastic toys, it is essential to carefully consider their condition and potential safety hazards. While it may be tempting to hold onto beloved toys, it is crucial to prioritise your child's safety. If you're unsure about a toy's safety, it's best to err on the side of caution and choose alternative options, such as wooden toys or books.
Additionally, it's worth considering the environmental impact of plastic toys. Plastic toys often end up in landfills and oceans, contributing to waste and pollution. Opting for more sustainable alternatives or buying second-hand toys can help reduce this environmental footprint. Ultimately, while passing down old toys may be a sentimental tradition, it's important to prioritise your child's safety and the planet's well-being.
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Cleaning old plastic toys
When it comes to old plastic toys, it is important to consider safety, particularly if they are intended for children to play with. Toys produced before 2008 may not meet current federal safety standards and could contain high levels of lead paint or toxic phthalates. Therefore, it is recommended to keep vintage toys on a shelf for display rather than play.
However, if you intend to clean old plastic toys, there are several methods you can use, depending on the size of the toy and the type of dirt or grime it has accumulated. For small plastic toys, soak them in a basin or sink filled with warm water and a few drops of gentle dish soap. You can also use a product like Lysol or Mr. Clean Multipurpose Cleaner, following the instructions on the bottle. Scrub any remaining dirty areas with a soft-bristled brush or an old toothbrush, then rinse and dry the toy thoroughly.
For larger plastic toys or play equipment, such as kitchens or climbers, use a spray bottle with a mixture of water and a small amount of dish soap. Wipe them down with a wet cloth and rinse with plain water or a hose if they are outdoors. Avoid using bleach, especially if the toys are intended for children, as it may be unsafe.
If the toys have accumulated dust or grime that is not easily removable through soaking or spraying, you can use a surfactant and a makeup remover pad to gently wipe down the toys. This method is particularly useful for vintage toys with metal joints that cannot be submerged in water. Ensure that the makeup remover pads are pure cotton and do not contain any lotions or additives.
After cleaning, it is crucial to let the toys air dry completely on a clean towel or drying rack to prevent mold growth and preserve their quality. Additionally, regularly cleaning toys can help prevent the buildup of harmful bacteria, especially if the toys have been played with by sick children.
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Recycling old plastic toys
Old plastic toys can pose safety risks, especially for children. Congress passed a law in 2008 that set the current federal safety standards for all toys made in or imported into the United States. Toys made before 2008 may contain high levels of lead paint or toxic phthalates and may have other problems such as small parts that are choking hazards. Older toys may also contain magnets, which can be dangerous if ingested. Therefore, vintage toys should be kept on a shelf for display rather than played with.
However, this does not mean that old plastic toys should be thrown away. Recycling and reusing plastic toys can help reduce pollution and waste, contributing to a better environment for everyone. There are several ways to recycle old plastic toys:
- Donate them: If the toys are still in good condition, they can be donated to charity shops or local community groups. Organizations like Toys4Life collect gently used toys and redistribute them to children in developing countries or underprivileged areas. This not only reduces waste but also brings joy to children in need.
- Recycle through specialized programs: Some organizations, such as Toys4Life, offer innovative recycling programs for plastic toys. They may accept all types of toys, including plastic, wooden, and plush toys, and find new homes for them or recycle them responsibly.
- Drop-off locations: Certain recycling centers and public drop-off locations accept toys and games for recycling. For example, TerraCycle public drop-off locations accept non-electronic toys made of plastic, metal, or wood.
- Resell or donate to collectors: If the toys are in good condition and may be considered collectibles, they can be resold on apps like Vinted, Depop, or eBay. Alternatively, they can be donated to collectors who appreciate vintage toys.
- Recycle by material: Some toys can be recycled by material type. For example, Lego pieces are made of ABS plastic, which can be recycled with other household plastics.
When deciding what to do with old plastic toys, it is essential to prioritize safety. If the toys are very old, it may be best to recycle or donate them rather than passing them down to children to play with. By recycling and reusing old plastic toys responsibly, we can contribute to a greener and happier world.
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Frequently asked questions
No, old plastic toys may contain high levels of lead paint or toxic phthalates. Even if the toy doesn't have paint, older plastics may contain chemicals that have since been banned for use in children's toys.
You can purchase a lead testing kit to check for lead paint.
Yes, small parts can be choking hazards, magnets can be dangerous if ingested, and older toys may not have age-appropriate grading on their packaging.
Early plastics will deteriorate over time, but you can slow this process by wrapping the toys in acid-free tissue paper and storing them in ventilated archival boxes.
Plastic toys cannot be placed in your regular recycling bin. However, there are some specialist companies that can advise on recycling plastic toys and some toy companies are now offering take-back programmes.
