Children’s Retailer Warns Of ‘Toxic Toys’

Children’s retailer, Soren’s House, is sending a stark warning to parents as plastic toys soar in popularity leading to a rise in the culture of ‘toxic toys’.

• The United Nations found 126 chemicals in plastic toys that could cause long-term illnesses in children

• A staggering 25% of children’s toys are found to contain harmful chemicals

• These chemicals have been linked to serious health risks such as cancer and infertility

Soren’s House is a unique children’s boutique that specialises in sustainable and eco-friendly toys, clothes, and décor. Founded by Sally and Max, the company’s mission is deeply personal, stemming from their son Seth’s diagnosis of Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma at the age of six.

This life-altering event sparked a profound shift in the couple’s perspective. They became acutely aware of the harmful chemicals often found in everyday objects, including toys, and their potential impact on children’s health. Determined to create a safe and nurturing environment for their son and other children, Sally and Max embarked on a journey to source the finest natural and eco-friendly products available.

Sally Jackson, Founder at Soren’s House, commented:

“Following Seth’s cancer diagnosis and his journey to recovery, our concerns about toxins and hidden chemicals in children’s toys heightened. Unfortunately, the majority of plastic toys lack labels indicating the presence of harmful chemicals, leaving parents uncertain about their safety. This frustration fuelled the vision for Soren’s House.”

“Our business is deeply influenced by our children. Seth’s battle with cancer inspired our commitment to exclusively stock natural, organic, and eco-friendly products. I constantly question whether I would use a product for my own children; if the answer is no, we won’t sell it.”

The most popular gifts targeted at children are often made from plastics that contain chemical additives to give them desired properties, such as hardness or elasticity. Research from The United Nations has identified 126 chemicals of concern in hard, soft and foam plastic toys that could cause long-term illnesses in children including cancer and infertility.

Safeguard Your Child’s Playtime: How To Identify Toxic Toys

As a parent or guardian, ensuring your child’s safety is paramount. While toys provide endless entertainment and learning opportunities, it’s crucial to be vigilant about potential hazards. Sally Jackson, Founder of Soren’s House has provided her tips to help you spot potentially toxic toys:

Prioritise Reputable Retailers

When purchasing toys, prioritise reputable shops that adhere to strict regulations and stock products from well-established manufacturers. Avoid unknown retailers who may compromise safety standards.

Beware of Unusually Cheap Products

This is a tricky one to navigate, but if a product’s price seems suspiciously low, exercise caution. Counterfeit or imitation products often contain hazardous chemicals or lack proper safety testing. If it seems too good to be true, it probably is.

Scrutinise Packaging and Labels

Carefully examine the packaging for the manufacturer’s details and an ingredients list. Look for the CE kitemark, indicating compliance with EU manufacturing standards, or the BSI kitemark, signifying independent testing and certification.

Embrace Natural Materials for Safe and Fun Playtime

When selecting toys for your little ones, prioritise natural materials that promote both child safety and environmental responsibility. Opt for unfinished wood toys that offer a tactile sensory experience and encourage creativity. Natural latex rubber toys, unlike their synthetic counterparts, are free from harsh chemicals and provide a safe chewing experience for teething babies. Organic cotton and organic wool garments offer comfort, breathability, and are gentle on delicate skin. Silicone toys, with their soft and pliable nature, are ideal for teething babies and toddlers.

Sally commented: 

“By prioritising natural materials and making informed choices about plastic toys, you can create a safe and healthy play environment for your children while minimising the impact on our planet. By following these simple yet effective strategies, you can create a safer and more enjoyable play environment for your child.”

While families will inevitably end up with some plastic toys under the tree this Christmas, Soren’s House urges families to minimise the risks to children and the planet by investing in higher-quality, non-toxic toys, wherever possible.