Silicone toys: why they are suitable for your child (and what to pay attention to)
Silicone toys are soft, flexible, easy to clean and long lasting. Good silicone does not contain BPA or phthalates, making it a popular choice for
Silicone toys are soft, flexible, easy to clean and long lasting. Good silicone does not contain BPA or phthalates, making it a popular choice for babies and toddlers who put everything in their mouths. There are also points of interest: the quality varies per manufacturer, the material attracts dust and lint and it is not indestructible.
What exactly are silicone toys?
Silicone is a rubbery, flexible material that you know from baking molds, spatulas and teats. It remains stable at high and low temperatures and is non-porous: moisture and dirt do not penetrate. Children’s products usually use food-safe silicone, often referred to as food grade. Some manufacturers use platinum-cured silicone, a production method known for a pure end result without by-products.
You will find silicone in teething rings, stacking toys, bath toys, sensory balls and increasingly in role-play toys such as pans and tableware.
What are the advantages of silicone toys?
Free from harmful substances
Good, food-safe silicone does not contain BPA, phthalates or lead. This is important for toys that come into the mouth a lot. The material is the same type as the baking tins and spatulas you use in the kitchen.
Kind to the skin
Silicone is known as a material that causes few allergic reactions. That makes it a pleasant choice for children with sensitive skin. If your child has a known allergy or skin condition, consult your doctor if in doubt.
Soft and pleasant to grip
The soft, slightly springy texture is pleasant for little hands and mouths. There are no hard edges, so if a toy falls on the floor or against a head, the risk of a bump is smaller than with hard material. The yielding and rebounding is also an interesting tactile experience for young children. You can read more about that in sensory baby toys.
Great for teething teeth
Teething babies like to chew on something firm but soft. A silicone teething toy provides counter pressure on the gums, which many babies find pleasant. Some parents put it in the refrigerator (not in the freezer) for a cooling effect.
Easy to clean
Because silicone is not porous, you can clean it thoroughly with warm water and a mild dishwashing liquid. Many silicone toys can also be put in the dishwasher or in boiling water. Always look at the manufacturer’s advice. This saves time and is great for toys that often go into the mouth.
Flexible and durable
Silicone can bend, twist and take a beating without cracking or shattering. It discolours little and remains beautiful for a long time. Toys that last for years and can be reused by brothers or sisters are better for your wallet and mean less waste.
No chemical smell
Good silicone smells neutral. A pungent chemical smell when unpacking can actually indicate poorer quality.
What are the disadvantages and points of interest?
Silicone is a fine material, but not perfect. To be fair:
- Quality varies. “Silicone” doesn’t say it all. There is also cheap silicone with fillers. Choose food-safe silicone from a manufacturer who is clear about the material and whose toys meet European toy standards (CE marking, EN 71).
- Attracts dust and lint. Silicone is slightly static. A toy that falls on the rug or in the sandbox quickly becomes full of fluff or sand. A quick rinse will solve it, but it is something to take into account.
- Not indestructible. Silicone does not break like hard plastic, but it can be cracked or nicked by sharp objects or by a child with strong teeth who chews on it for a long time. Check toys regularly and throw away damaged ones so that no pieces can come loose.
- May absorb odor or discoloration. When in contact with strongly colored or scented food or sunscreen, silicone can sometimes retain a hint of colour or odor. This usually disappears after a few washes.
- Difficult to recycle. Silicone lasts a long time, but at the end of its life it usually cannot be mixed with regular plastic waste.
- Often more expensive. Silicone toys usually cost more than comparable plastic toys. Read up on whether that is worth it silicone role-play toys: more expensive, but better?
How do you recognize good silicone toys?
| Please note | Why |
|---|---|
| Food safe (food grade) mentioned | Suitable for contact with mouth and food |
| CE marking and age indication | Complies with European toy regulations |
| No strong chemical smell | May indicate inferior quality |
| One piece, without loose parts | No choking hazard and easier to clean |
| Clear washing instructions | You know whether it can go in the dishwasher or boiling water |
An often-mentioned home test is to twist or squeeze the toy firmly. If the material turns white in that area, this may indicate fillers. It is not an official test, but it is an indication.
How do you clean silicone toys?
- Rinse the toy with warm water after use.
- Wash it regularly with a mild dishwashing liquid and a soft sponge.
- If it is dishwasher safe according to the manufacturer, place it in the top rack.
- Let it dry thoroughly before storing.
- Avoid aggressive cleaning agents and scouring pads; these can damage the surface.
If silicone bath toys are used, pay extra attention to a good drying routine. More about that in our article about safe and mold-free bath toys.
What age are silicone toys suitable for?
Silicone toys are available for every age. Teething rings, soft blocks and gripping toys are popular for babies. Toddlers and toddlers enjoy playing with stacking toys, bath toys and sensory balls. For toddlers and preschoolers, silicone tableware or kitchen utensils for role play are a fun option. Always follow the age rating of the product and supervise young children.
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Frequently asked questions
Are silicone toys safe for babies?
Food-grade silicone that meets European toy standards is considered safe for babies. The material does not contain BPA or phthalates and is gentle on the mouth and gums. Keep supervision and check the toys regularly for cracks or bite marks.
What is the difference between silicone and plastic toys?
Silicone is softer, more flexible and non-porous, and it tolerates high temperatures. Hard plastic is lighter and cheaper, but can be scratched or broken, causing sharp edges. Silicone is usually more expensive, but often lasts longer.
Why do silicone toys attract so much dust?
Silicone is slightly static and has a slightly sticky surface, making it easy for dust, hair and lint to stick to it. Rinsing with water is usually enough. Store the toys in a basket or bin to keep them cleaner.
Can silicone toys go in the dishwasher?
Many silicone toys are dishwasher safe, but that doesn’t apply to everything. Look at the manufacturer’s instructions. Preferably place it in the top rack, away from the heating element.
What does food grade or platinum silicone mean?
Food grade means that the silicone is suitable for contact with food. Platinum silicone is cured with platinum as a catalyst, a method known for a clean result. Both terms say something about the material; In addition, always check whether the toy complies with European toy standards.