SundarSubu

We've compiled a list of safety considerations that will help you ensure that your toys are designed with safety in mind and are manufactured with the utmost care and attention. The list isn't exhaustive but it could be helpful if you are new to soft toy production.TIPS:Carry out a risk assessment on your toy.Avoid hard eyes and noses.Choose suitable fabrics.Fabrics with long pile are not to be used on soft toys for babies under 12 months as tufts or loose fibers can pose nasty choking hazards. Felt fabrics are also a problem for the under 3s as they often fail pull tests and the wash ability requirements. All fabrics need to be flame resistant and color fast.Ensure toys' safe construction.Seam strength can be a problem on soft toys and split seams can result in stuffing coming out and posing a choking hazard.Consider components and attachments.Any components such as rattles or bells must be enclosed in a separate cloth bag before being inserted into the toy. Any attachments such as bows need to be attached firmly and ribbon ends heat sealed to prevent fraying. If the toy has a pull cord (loose or looped) ensure that they meet the length requirements of the relevant standards.Source safe fabrics.The list of requirements is quite onerous - fabrics must not contain azo dyes or formaldehyde and the supplier must not use flame retardants. If plastic materials or parts are included these must be free from cadmium, phthalates and organotins. Fabrics also need to meet the chemical requirements of EN71 part 3 (2013), EN71 part 9 and REACH in Europe and the ASTM F963 in the US.Stuffing materials.Stuffing materials should be clean and hygienic and not recycled.…