Black Friday is here - the season of irresistible deals, full baskets, and parents feeling just a little bit smug for getting ahead of Christmas. With toy sales soaring this year, it’s tempting to scoop up those bargains before they disappear.
But while your little one dreams of new cuddly friends and shiny new toys, experts are waving a big red flag: many toys sold online may not be safe for tiny hands (or, for that matter, inquisitive little mouths either).
We completely understand the need to spread the cost of Christmas. But before you click ‘add to basket’, it’s worth slowing down and giving those deals a second look.
A toy safety crisis: Why 90% of marketplace toys fail UK rules
You might assume that if a toy is listed online, it must follow toy safety regulations in the UK - sadly, that’s not always the case. A recent investigation by the British Toy & Hobby Association (BTHA) found that 90% of toys bought from online marketplaces (including Temu, Wish, TikTok Shop and AliExpress) failed UK safety rules.
And it’s not just about poor stitching or low quality materials. Some of the failures relate to serious safety hazards such as toxic paint and loose small parts which pose a choking risk.
The Child Accident Prevention Trust (CAPT) has also issued warnings: “Toys from unknown overseas sellers often haven’t been safety tested at all. RoSPA (The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents) also advises families to be especially vigilant when shopping online for children’s products, as safety regulations may not always be met.
This raises a big question parents are asking right now: “Are Temu toys safe?” In many cases, experts say: do your homework - especially for our youngest explorers who experience the world one mouthful at a time!
So how can parents protect their little ones while still enjoying the sparkle of Black Friday savings? That’s where our experts step in.
An expert checklist from My 1st Years: The 4 hidden signs of an unsafe toy
At My 1st Years, our mission is simple: unforgettable personalised gifts, made safely and to last. So we’ve put together a quick checklist to help you spot toy safety red flags (even when the price tag looks tempting).
1. Paint or dye
Babies and toddlers love a good chew. It’s how they learn! But if a toy’s paint or dye isn’t non-toxic, flakes easily or smells strange, it may contain harmful chemicals. Look for toys specifically labelled as non-toxic. And if it isn’t? Steer clear.
2. Small parts
Buttons, glued-on eyes, sparkly gems… all adorable, yes. But safe? Not always. Anything that can loosen or detach can become a choking hazard, especially for babies and toddlers under 3.
What to check:
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Are details stitched rather than glued?
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Are parts firmly attached?
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Does the toy come with a “Not suitable for children under 3 years” warning?”
Our soft toys are designed with embroidered features, making them safe for the smallest on your gift list.
3. Long cords or ribbons
Loose ribbons, long strings, or dangly cords can become a strangulation risk. If you’re buying a toy or comforter with embellishments, make sure:
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Ribbons are securely attached
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Nothing is long enough to wrap around a little neck
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The toy feels sturdy when gently tugged
If you’re uncertain, save it for when they’re older - or supervise them completely when handling any toy that poses a strangulation risk.
4. Personalisation
Personalised gifts make hearts melt and feel so unique - but it’s imperative the customisation hasn’t compromised comfort or safety. Before you buy, check:
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Does embroidery sit against skin, or is backed to avoid irritation against sensitive skin?
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Has personalisation made the fabric stiff or weakened?
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Does the stitching feel smooth and soft?
At My 1st Years, every personalised stitch is crafted in the UK - placed with both love and safety in mind, because your little one deserves comfort and quality without compromise.
Decoding toy safety symbols and meanings (and UK regulations)
To help you feel confident during your Black Friday shop, here’s a parent-friendly guide to the most important toy safety symbols you’ll see.
CE and UKCA marks
CE and UKCA marks show the toy meets toy safety standards, including checks for:
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Flammability
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Chemicals
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Choking hazards
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Mechanical safety
If these symbols are missing, especially on toys shipped from unknown sellers, it’s safe to assume these toys haven’t been tested and therefore do not meet these standards.
The “Not Suitable for Under 3s” Symbol
This little red warning with a sad toddler face pops up often. It means the toy contains choking hazards, sharp points or edges or other features unsuitable for little ones under 3 years old.
Age guidance labels
Age guidance labels are based on developmental safety standards to ensure:
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Materials are non-toxic
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Parts won’t break off
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Fabrics won’t shed harmful fibres
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The toy won't pose cutting, choking or strangulation risks
If an online seller can’t clearly show these marks, it might be best to look elsewhere.
Our advice? Safety first for a joyful Christmas
Black Friday is fun, fast and full of brilliant bargains - but no deal is worth risking your child’s safety. As Molly Ejdowski from My 1st Years says:
“When Santa’s been, parents should be assured the toys their children unwrap on Christmas Day are safe to play with.”
At My 1st Years, every product is made to be snuggled, (occasionally!) chewed , cuddled and cherished - because magical moments deserve worry-free gifts. So shop thoughtfully, double-check those toy safety symbols, and let’s make this Christmas as safe as it is sparkling.