Safety standards
A toy has one job before anything else: it has to be safe. Here's how we test, what we refuse to stock, and what the labels on our products actually mean.
Independently tested
Every product in the Playtopia range is tested by a third-party laboratory — not by the maker, and not by us. We receive a certificate for each item before it goes on sale, and we keep them on file.
- EN 71 — the European toy safety standard
- ASTM F963 — the US toy safety specification
- CPSIA compliance for all products sold in the United States
- Phthalate, heavy metal and lead testing on every painted surface
Materials we use
We specify the materials ourselves rather than accepting whatever a factory has in stock. That's a large part of why our furniture costs what it does.
- Solid birch, beech and oak from responsibly managed forests
- Water-based, non-toxic paints and stains — no solvent fumes
- Rounded and sanded edges on every edge a hand can reach
- No PVC, no BPA, no phthalates, no formaldehyde-based glues
Age grading, explained
The age on each toy is a safety label, not a marketing suggestion. It tells you the youngest age at which the toy is safe, based on small parts, weight and the skills the toy assumes.
- Ages 2+ and 2–3: no small parts, nothing that detaches, no choking hazards
- Ages 3+: may contain small parts — always supervise younger siblings
- Ages 4–9: larger construction and logic builds
- If you're buying for a mixed-age group, choose the youngest child's band
If you're ever unsure, message us with the ages involved and we'll tell you honestly whether a toy suits your situation.
Assembly and use
Larger play furniture arrives flat-packed and needs adult assembly. Every piece comes with clear instructions and the fixings you need, and we're happy to talk you through it if anything isn't obvious.
- Assemble on a soft surface to protect the finish
- Check fixings are tight after the first week, then periodically
- Wipe clean with a damp cloth — no harsh chemicals needed
- Indoor use unless the product states otherwise
Common questions
Yes. We use water-based paints and stains, and every painted surface is lab-tested for lead, heavy metals and phthalates. The certificates are available on request.
A safety question about a specific toy?
A real person reads every message and replies within one working day.
