How to Stay Away From Phthalates in Toys

Things You’ll Need:

• Squeaky Toys For A Baby
• Washcloths
• Baby Rattles
• Baby Toys

Step 1:
Familiarize yourself with manufacturers that, according to the CPSC, stopped using phthalates in teethers in early 1999: ArcoToys, Chicco, Disney, Evenflo, The First Years, Gerber, Hasbro (Playskool), Little Tikes, Mattel (Fisher-Price), Safety 1st, Sassy, Shelcore Toys and Tyco Preschool.

Step 2:
Opt for toys made with other materials, such as latex or silicone, both of which are resilient, easy to clean and satisfying to sore gums for mouthy babies.

Step 3:
Look for toys with labels on packaging that state they are phthalate-free.

Step 4:
Use the following tactics for supporting teething babies. If you notice your child constantly chewing on a toy: massage baby's gums; let baby gnaw on a cold washcloth; sparingly apply topical teething gels; offer cold drinks or if appropriate, chilled comfort foods; and consult your doctor about over-the-counter children's pain medication.

Step 5:
Try to distract baby from a toy possibly made with phthalates with another interesting "safe" toy to chew on or change the child's activity.

Step 6:
Discard any soft, plastic toys that were manufactured before 1999, especially if the ingredients are unknown.

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