Guide to Plastics in Toys Industry: Types, Safety, and Sustainability

When it comes to selecting the best plastic for toys, manufacturers must consider a variety of factors that impact the toy's safety, durability, environmental footprint, and overall appeal. Different plastics offer distinct benefits and drawbacks depending on the type of toy being made, the target age group, and the intended use. Below, we break down the key considerations for choosing the best plastic for toys.

1. Safety and Toxicity

Ensuring the safety of children is the highest priority in toy manufacturing. The best plastic materials for toys must meet rigorous safety standards and be free from harmful chemicals.

• Non-toxic and Hypoallergenic: Materials used in toys must not contain toxic substances like phthalates, BPA, or lead, which can be harmful if ingested or absorbed through the skin. Plastics such as ABS, TPR, and EVA are popular for being non-toxic and safe for children's toys.

• Regulatory Compliance: Different regions have strict regulations regarding toy safety. Plastics used in toys must comply with standards such as ASTM F963 (USA), EN71 (Europe), and other local requirements to ensure they are safe for various age groups. PVC, for instance, has been modified in recent years to eliminate harmful additives like phthalates, resulting in phthalate-free PVC suitable for toys.

2. Durability and Strength

Toys undergo a lot of wear and tear, especially in the hands of young children. The best plastic materials for toys are those that can withstand rough handling, drops, and prolonged use without losing their shape or functionality.

• Impact Resistance: Harder plastics like ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) are known for their strength and impact resistance. ABS is commonly used in toys like building blocks (e.g., LEGO bricks) and action figures because it can endure drops and rough play without breaking.

• Long-lasting Performance: For toys that need to last for years, ABS and PVC are excellent options. They offer long-term durability while maintaining structural integrity.

3. Flexibility and Comfort

Some toys require more flexible, soft materials, especially those designed for younger children or teething infants. The right plastic should be comfortable to handle, safe to touch, and easy to manipulate.

• Soft and Flexible Materials: TPR (Thermoplastic Rubber) and EVA (Ethylene Vinyl Acetate) are commonly used in toys that need to be soft and flexible. TPR is often used for teething toys, stretchy figures, and toys with a rubbery feel, while EVA is used for foam mats and soft toys due to its lightweight and flexible properties.

• Comfort and Safety: These materials are ideal for creating toys that children can chew, squeeze, and hug, ensuring they are both safe and comfortable.

4. Environmental Impact

As environmental concerns grow, more and more toy manufacturers are seeking to reduce their ecological footprint by choosing sustainable materials. The best plastics for eco-friendly toys are those that are recyclable, biodegradable, or made from renewable sources.

• Recyclability: Plastics like PET (Polyethylene Terephthalate) and PE (Polyethylene) are recyclable, which helps reduce waste and promote a circular economy. PET is often used for toy packaging and bottles, while PE is common in packaging, plush toy stuffing, and squeeze toys.

• Biodegradability and Sustainability: Bioplastics, such as PLA (Polylactic Acid) and PHA (Polyhydroxyalkanoates), made from renewable resources like cornstarch and sugarcane, are increasingly being used in sustainable toy manufacturing. These plastics are biodegradable, offering a more eco-friendly alternative to traditional plastics, although they can be more expensive to produce.

• Limited Environmental Impact: While materials like PVC and Nylon are widely used in toys, they have a higher environmental impact due to their limited recyclability and the complexity of their production process. However, advancements in eco-friendly formulations (e.g., phthalate-free PVC) are helping to reduce their environmental footprint.

5. Aesthetic Quality and Finish

The visual appeal and texture of a toy are critical to its success, especially in the case of collectibles and premium items. The right plastic should allow for vibrant colors, intricate detailing, and smooth finishes.

• Color and Finish: ABS offers a smooth, glossy finish and vibrant colors, making it ideal for toys like action figures, building blocks, and interactive toys. Vinyl also provides a glossy finish and is great for toys requiring intricate details, such as collectible figurines.

• Fine Detailing: For high-quality, collectible toys, plastics like resin and vinyl are often used due to their ability to hold fine details. These materials allow for more elaborate designs and small batch production, making them ideal for premium collectibles.

6. Cost-Effectiveness

Cost is always a consideration when choosing the best plastic for toys. Manufacturers must balance the material’s benefits with its cost to ensure the toy remains affordable for consumers.

• Affordable Plastics: Plastics like PVC, PE, and EVA are cost-effective and widely used for mass-produced toys. These materials offer durability and flexibility while being more affordable than other alternatives.

• Production Efficiency: Some plastics, such as ABS and PVC, are easier to mold and require less time in the manufacturing process, leading to lower production costs. For more detailed or specialized toys, resin may be chosen, though it comes at a higher cost due to its small-batch production nature.

7. Age Appropriateness

Not all plastics are suitable for every age group. Younger children, especially infants and toddlers, require materials that are softer and safer, while older children may require more durable and rigid plastics.

• Age-appropriate Materials: For toys intended for babies and young children, soft, non-toxic plastics like TPR and EVA are often chosen. For toys aimed at older children or collectors, materials like ABS, PVC, and resin provide the durability and fine details needed for long-lasting play.

By considering safety, sustainability, durability, and cost, manufacturers can make more informed decisions about the plastics they use in toy production, ensuring they meet consumer needs while also minimizing environmental harm.