Toys
What To Look For
Material
Plastics
Look for plastics made without PVC (see The Backstory). It's usually identifiable by the number 3, the letters "PVC" or the word "vinyl" often found next to the three-arrow recycling symbol. You can also use the "smell test"; plastics made with vinyl usually have a plasticky smell, similar to that of a new shower curtain. If you aren't sure whether a product contains PVC or PVC parts, call the manufacturer's question and comment line, an 800 number usually listed on the bottom of the label or package.
Wood
In terms of children's health, an unfinished solid wood toy is completely harmless! When it comes to finishes, however, natural oils, such as linseed, walnut and beeswax are safest. Other plant-based oils, such as those made from citrus, can have strong odors that can irritate a young child's sensitive airways. Because ingestion of mineral oil has been associated with inhibited lung functioning and lipoid pneumonia, wood toys finished with mineral oil are not recommended for children under the age of three, who frequently put toys in their mouths. Look on labels or the box for the least toxic finishes.
Due to the risk of formaldehyde from glues, any solid wood toy is preferable to one made with pressed woods. However, to ensure that solid wood came from responsibly managed forests, look for the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certification, which prohibits clear-cutting and the use of old-growth and endangered tree species.
Electronics and Battery-Operated Toys
Look for solar-powered electronic toys or those that run off of rechargeable batteries, juiced up with a solar charger (see Picking the Right Rechargeable). Because rechargeables contain heavy metals--such as nickel, cadmium, lithium and lead--be sure to treat them as hazardous waste at the end of their lifespan. For proper disposal, see www.rbrc.org.
Cotton, Hemp, Wool
Opt for organic cotton (grown without pesticides or synthetic fertilizers), unbleached cotton (free of dioxin-producing chlorine), hemp and wool colored with low-impact, colorfast dyes. Wool is naturally fire-resistant--yet another reason to choose it. Also, look for fleece dolls and stuffed animals made from post-consumer recycled materials.
