CCPC advises consumers about potentially unsafe squishy toys

The Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC) is warning consumers not to buy or use squishy toys if the manufacturer is unknown, required safety information is missing, the toy has a strong chemical smell, feels oily or unusually sticky, is leaking, or tears easily. 

What are squishy toys? 

Squishy toys are soft, squeezable toys usually made from foam, rubber or silicone. Popular designs include animals, food items and characters. Some contain gel, beads, water or other fillers. They are commonly used as sensory or fidget toys, collectibles and stress-relief items. 

Why should I be careful? 

Some squishy toys may be unsafe if they contain harmful chemicals or small parts, or if they split, leak or release fillers such as gel, beads or other substances. Reports have raised concerns about harmful chemicals in some of these types of products.  

The CCPC is aware of reports that exposure to certain squishy toys, or their contents, may cause skin irritation or symptoms such as nausea, headaches and dizziness. Heating a squishy toy can also cause it to burst or leak, releasing hot contents and creating a risk of burns. 

Where can I buy them? 

Squishy toys are widely available through online marketplaces, social media, discount stores and other retailers. When buying from businesses based in Ireland or the EU, you have strong consumer rights. If you buy from a private seller or from a retailer outside Ireland and the EU, those rights may not apply if something goes wrong. Read the CCPC guidance on buying outside the EU. 

What to check before buying 

Avoid toys with a strong chemical smell, weak seams, loose beads, leaking contents or small parts that could become detached. 

Check for the CE mark, which indicates that the toy meets recognised safety standards. All toys should carry a CE mark. If it is missing, do not buy the toy. 

Check the recommended age and remember that squishy toys are not suitable for babies or toddlers. 

Buy from reputable businesses that provide safety information, return options and customer support. If you need more information about a product’s safety or suitability, ask before purchasing. 

How to use squishy toys safely 

To help keep children safe: 

• Supervise young children when they are playing with squishy toys and keep these toys away from babies and toddlers.
• Discourage children from putting squishy toys in their mouths and encourage them to wash their hands after play. 
• Check squishy toys regularly for tears, leaks, loose beads, sticky residue and strong or unusual smells. Dispose of damaged toys immediately and keep them out of children’s reach. 
• Store squishy toys in a cool, dry place. Do not heat them in a microwave or leave them in hot cars, as they may burst or melt and release hot contents that can cause burns. 
• Follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Do not cut, puncture, heat, freeze or break open squishy toys. 

Thousands of squishy toys are under investigation by the CCPC as part of ongoing market surveillance and product safety checks.