Shopping for Toys can feel flat out overwhelming, especially if you’re looking for good quality, safe toys. And by safe, I mean, non-toxic and BPA free (toddlers mouth everything). One of the best places to start your search is by looking for companies that manufacture their toys using eco-conscious practices.

There's this neat parallel that exists- the toy companies that prioritize sustainability end up creating the safest toys for kids! If you think about it, it totally makes sense.

Now, are all toy brands that label their toys as non-toxic produced sustainably? Nopers. So, here are a few carefully curated and/or tested toy companies that check all the boxes for safe and eco-conscious play. You’re sure to find quality designed toys to add to your shopping list or gift to a loved one!

Disclaimer: While I recommend purchasing toys directly from toy company websites, I also want everyone to have access to safe toys for their loved ones. Therefore, all of these brands can also be found on Amazon. Accessibility is important (I use survey apps that pay in Amazon gift cards) and I know I wouldn't be able to afford some of these brands without the gift cards. Please purchase from wherever you can afford.

Green Toys

Price | ~$12-20

Green Toys is a fairly popular brand in the world of sustainable toys. Their toys are made from recycled milk jugs. This brand's commitment to the use of eco-friendly materials throughout production has created an eye-catching line of toys. Many of these toys include soft, inviting pastel colors, and are designed with an emphasis on simplicity. Green Toys is big on safety and considers itself top of its class when it comes to safe play.

Recommendation: I have personally purchased and child-tested lots of toys from the Green Toys brand. These have included Star Stacker Cups, a Helicopter, and Build-a-bouquet. These toys were a hit amongst toddlers I taught (ages 1-3) and even with my 4-year-old nephews!

Plan Toys

Price | ~$10-30

When you think of Plan Toys, think Montessori toys meets a watercolor palette. I hope that sounds as amazing as it actually is! All of their toys are made with non-toxic and environmentally friendly materials. In fact, Plan Toys uses chemical free, water-based colors to create their toys. Additionally, they specifically use E-Zero glue in production because it doesn't contain formaldehyde (a toxic ingredient commonly used in wood adhesives).

This company makes a large variety of toys for everyday play, including fine motor, and water play toys. However, some of their best sellers are toys that focus more on gross motor development (like pull-along animals) and dramatic play (like play food, doctor kits). With over 500 items listed on the website, Plan Toys is fitting for babies and toddlers up until about 4 years old.

Recommendation: I gifted the Hopping Rabbit to a busy 1 year old and it was a hit (tip: the parents decided to make a small loop in the string for easier grasping and it was genius). The rabbit's tail goes up and down as the child pulls it along the leash.

I also highly recommend this gorgeous pastel mobile. It's a perfect piece of decor for any nursery or kid's room.

Sarah's Silks

Price | ~$10-30

I’m obsessed with the toy scarves this company makes! One quick glimpse at their website and I guarantee you will be too! Referred to as playsilks, these scarves are designed with non-toxic dyes and pure silk, which also makes them biodegradable.

The company has recently expanded to selling a variety of wooden toys, including, wooden play houses, wooden rainbows, wooden balance boards, and versatile play frames to name a few.

Recommendation: Now, I don’t own any of the scarves, yet… But I’ve been eyeing them for over a year. Scarves make an awesome addition to any playroom because they're perfect for dramatic play! I've seen kids turn scarves into capes, belts, dresses, and tablecloths. This gift is sure to ignite your child's imagination, the possibilities are endless! What makes Sarah’s Silks different from other scares is their soft, silk texture. For this reason, they probably make fun tactile toys, especially for sensory-seekers or tactile lovers.

Tegu Toys

Price | ~$20-120

Do you know a kid that's really into building? Tegu Toys is a great place to find a gift for junior engineers. The brand is best known for its wooden magnet blocks which are made from authentic wood and magnets in the Honduras.

A set of these wooden blocks would make a perfect gift for kids that have mastered Magnatiles. The only reason I say this is because, with Magnatiles, the perimeter of every shape is magnetic. However, with Tegu blocks, the magnets are placed in certain spots within the blocks. I've noticed that most two-year-olds just haven't developed the patience yet to pinpoint and memorize where the magnets are in each shape. Now, I've seen 3 1/2 year-olds play with these for hours!

Recommendation: No worries if your kid isn't that age just yet. Tegu also makes wooden toy cars that are fitting for babies as early as 1 1/2 years old! The cars come with only 3 pieces- the base of the car/wheels, a triangular piece that goes on top of the base, and a wooden driver figure. This simple design engages young toddlers and they are able to explore and repair the toy independently.

I'd love your help expanding on this list! Comment below or send me a message sharing your favorite eco-friendly toys for kids!

Stay Conscious + Curious,

Sincerely,

Briesh