Trying Times at the Toy Store
The scariest place to bring your child these days should not be the toy store. But given the recent flood of recalls on products as varied as coloring cases, dolls and charm bracelets, it’s no wonder that many consumers are nervous about which new playthings to purchase.
Several of the recently recalled items were due to violation of a lead paint standard or the risk of lead exposure. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), “Children may be exposed to (lead) from consumer products through normal hand-to-mouth activity, which is part of their normal development. They often place toys, fingers, and other objects in their mouth, exposing themselves to lead paint or dust.”
While the use of lead paint has been banned on children’s products made in the United States, it can still be found on imported goods. For an updated list and photos of recalled toys, visit the Consumer Product Safety Commission’s website (CPSC).
Another potential danger in toys is the commonly used plastic PVC (polyvinyl chloride or vinyl). PVC is used in many toys and baby products, and toxic chemicals known as “plasticizers” (lead is one of them) must be added to make PVC pliable. These chemicals can then leach out of the products during their lifecycle.
PVC is technically recyclable, but it’s not an easy process. It must be separated from other recycling process due to the potential for emission of dioxins and corrosive gasses. PVC also continues to leach dioxins throughout its lifecycle.
Many major manufacturers are phasing out PVC in their products, and consumer pressure will certainly encourage more to do the same. Some of the PVC-free standouts include Brio, Gerber, and LEGO.
How do you recognize and handle products containing PVC or lead?
- Look for the #3 plastic recycling code, PVC (or V) on products
- Check product sites to find out where the toys were manufactured and what materials were used
- Return these product to the manufacturer; keep them away from landfills and reuse centers
- Find a recycling location in your area, use Earth 911’s recycling locator
Unless disposed of properly, they will continue to pose a threat to other children and to the environment.
