How to Choose Safe Toys for Babies Under One

Toys do so much more than entertain — they help babies learn, explore, and build new skills. But for infants under one year old, safety always comes first. Babies explore the world with their mouths and hands, so choosing toys that are non-toxic, sturdy, and developmentally appropriate is essential. With a few simple guidelines, you can fill your baby’s play space with toys that are both fun and safe.

Check the Labels and Materials
Always start by checking the toy’s age recommendation and materials. For babies under one, look for products labeled “non-toxic,” “BPA-free,” “phthalate-free,” and “lead-free.” Natural materials like untreated wood, food-grade silicone, and organic cotton are excellent choices. Avoid painted or cheaply coated toys that can chip or flake. The fewer chemicals involved, the better for your baby’s delicate system.

Mind the Size and Shape
Babies explore by mouthing everything, so size matters for safety. Avoid toys with small parts or detachable pieces that could become choking hazards. A good rule of thumb: if it can fit through a toilet paper roll, it’s too small for your baby. Rounded edges, soft surfaces, and simple designs are ideal. Teethers, soft blocks, and large stacking toys encourage exploration without risk.

Avoid Strings, Magnets, and Batteries (for Now)
Anything with cords, strings, or small magnets poses a serious safety concern. Toys with button batteries are especially dangerous if swallowed, so keep them out of reach. Simple, non-electronic toys are not only safer but also encourage open-ended play — babies learn more by manipulating, squeezing, and banging objects than by pressing buttons that light up.

Choose Developmentally Appropriate Toys
Your baby’s abilities change quickly in the first year. For newborns, high-contrast toys and soft rattles stimulate vision and hearing. Around 4 to 6 months, textured teethers and grasping toys help develop fine motor skills. By 8 to 12 months, stacking rings, sensory balls, and push-pull toys support coordination and cause-and-effect learning. Choosing toys that match your baby’s stage helps keep playtime engaging and safe.

Keep It Clean and Simple
Babies put everything in their mouths, so regular cleaning is key. Choose toys that are easy to wash — silicone, fabric, and wood all clean well with mild soap and warm water. Avoid toys with hidden crevices or complicated mechanisms where moisture can linger. A few high-quality toys are better than an overflowing bin of questionable ones; minimalism makes it easier to maintain both safety and calm.

Safety Meets Connection
Ultimately, the best toys are the ones that encourage connection — not just distraction. Simple toys that invite shared play, like stacking cups or soft books, help your baby feel secure while learning about the world. Sit nearby, watch their reactions, and join in the fun. These early play moments build not just skills, but trust and joy.

Because every small moment at home deserves care, comfort, and calm.