It is the Chemicals Inspectorate that, together with the Swedish Electrical Safety Authority and the Swedish Consumer Agency, issues a warning for older toys that can be dangerous for children. The fact that older toys more often contain dangerous substances than newly manufactured ones is because a law for toys became stricter in 2013.
– It is great that many people choose to buy used, but we can see that there are certain risks with that, says Frida Ramström, inspector at the Chemicals Inspectorate.
These include old toys that contain strong magnets that can cause great harm if children accidentally swallow them, but also toys made of sticky plastic. Toys with damaged cords and battery covers should also be avoided, says Frida Ramström.
“Some risks are more acute”
– Some risks are more acute. For example, if a child swallows loose small parts, it causes suffocation.
Before Christmas shopping, the authorities therefore urge not to buy, sell or give away used soft plastic toys such as dolls and bath ducks. In some of them there may be a substance that disrupts hormones.
– In some plastic dolls we find a substance called phthalate. This substance is spread to the children if they suck or bite the doll. The substance can also come off and be found in dust and in the long term it can affect the child’s ability to have children.
Shopping second-hand is a thing of the past, and if you want to check which toys are safe, there is information to get.
– If you are unsure, you can check our website where we have a checklist with concrete tips for both sellers and buyers, says Frida Ramström, inspector at the Chemicals Inspectorate.