Wooden Toy Safety Checklist
Run any wooden toy through this before you buy. heirloomwoodentoys.com
Materials & finish
- Solid hardwood (maple, beech, rubberwood), not hollow or flimsy composite
- Non-toxic finish: untreated, food-grade oil, beeswax, or water-based lead-free paint
- Smooth, splinter-free edges and surfaces
- Paint is not flaking or chipping (re-check older / second-hand toys)
For babies & under-3s
- No small parts that could be a choking hazard (nothing that fits through a toilet-roll tube)
- Parts are securely attached and cannot be pulled or chewed loose
- Light enough for little hands; no sharp points or pinch points
- Safe to mouth (untreated or food-grade finish only)
Toy boxes & chests
- Slow-close or stay-open lid support (no heavy slamming lid)
- Ventilation holes or a gap in case a child climbs inside
- Stable, will not tip; weight limit checked if used as a seat
Labels & standards
- Age recommendation on the packaging matches your child
- Meets a recognised safety standard: EN71 (Europe) or ASTM F963 (US)
- Sustainably sourced wood (FSC) is a bonus
Care
- Clean with a damp soapy cloth and dry at once (never soak or dishwasher)
- Re-oil with food-grade oil or beeswax if the wood looks dry
- Inspect regularly for cracks, splinters or loose parts
More detail in our non-toxic wooden toys guide and toy box safety guide.