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Non-Toxic Bath Toys For Babies and Toddlers

Worried about what might be lurking in your child’s bath toys? Non-toxic Living Expert, Aida Garcia-Toledo, shares which chemicals to avoid as well as her favorite non-toxic bath toy picks!

Aida Garcia-Toledo Non-toxic Living Expert

Unbeknownst to many parents, those squeaky bath toys that we all grew up with and that are still widely available can actually be some of the most toxic items in our home. The good news is that, if you know what to look for and what to avoid, there are many fun and non-toxic alternatives.

In this article, we’ll go over:

Chemicals to avoid when choosing bath toys
Things to consider when shopping for bath toys
The best non-toxic bath toys

Scroll down to learn more.

Chemicals to avoid when choosing bath toys

There are three main chemicals that you should avoid when purchasing bath toys.

PVC
Phthalates
Bisphenols (BPA + BPS)

PVC (Polyvinyl chloride)

How to identify it: PVC or vinyl, is commonly found in soft plastic toys, with a recycling number 3.
Why it is bad: PVC is a known human carcinogen that can also expose you to lead, a known neurotoxin, and endocrine disrupting chemicals. It is not only bad for humans, but also really bad for the planet since PVC production releases a host of toxic chemicals into the environment. PVC should be avoided for young children because children’s brains and bodies are still developing and their metabolism and behaviors (ie: putting things in mouth) make them especially vulnerable.
How to avoid it: PVC is still quite common in less expensive plastic bath toys. The best way to avoid this chemical it to search for toys that specify they are PVC free or opt for toys that are not made of plastic.

Phthalates

How to identify it: Phthalates, in bath toys today, are used to soften the plastic and make it ‘squishy’ – they are often found in PVC/vinyl toys.
Why it is bad: Phthalates are endocrine disruptors (they mimic your hormones) that have been linked to early puberty in girls, premature delivery, impaired sperm quality and sperm damage in men, genital defects and reduced testosterone production in boys, as well as obesity. Phthalates are not chemically bound to the plastic and can easily escape from the product and into your little one’s body.
How to avoid it: Look for toys labelled ‘phthalate free’ and “PVC free”. Opt for bath toys that are not made of soft plastic.

Bisphenols (BPA + BPS)

How to identify it: Plastics that contain #7 in the recycling code can contain bisphenols (specifically, BPA + BPS.) Plastics containing BPA + BPS are usually hard and clear.
Why it is bad: Bisphenols are more endocrine disrupting chemicals that has been linked to hormone disruption, developmental problems in children and obesity. They are readily absorbed by the body.
How to avoid it: Look for toys labeled “BPA-free*” or go with natural materials. *WARNING: Some brands are replacing BPA with BPS, which is just as bad.