Global alerts issued over safety risks of popular squishy toys
Regulators in the UK, US, Australia and Canada have warned that certain squishy toys may contain benzene, pose burn hazards or explode when exposed to heat.
Authorities across several countries have raised alarms about the safety of trendy squishy toys used for sensory play. In England, Cornwall Trading Standards reported failures to meet national standards, and Hull City Council destroyed stock after detecting carcinogenic benzene. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission reiterated warnings about severe burn risks from non-compliant counterfeit toys and intercepted shipments at ports.
Australian manufacturer Schyling sought assistance from the Australian Border Force to stop counterfeit versions of its NeeDoh products. Health Canada recorded 36 incidents involving dumpling-shaped toys, including odors, skin rashes, breathing difficulty and two cases of the toys bursting, though no formal safety violation has been identified. Amazon Canada removed some items voluntarily, and experts warned that undisclosed chemical contents could pose unknown hazards, urging parents to keep toys away from heat and inspect them regularly.
Why it matters
Consumers need to know potential chemical and burn hazards in widely sold squishy toys to protect children and adults.
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