Renfrewshire parents and carers are being urged to check popular “squishy” toys before buying them after more than 1,000 unsafe toys were removed from local shops.
Renfrewshire Council’s Trading Standards officers carried out the searches and removed toys which did not meet safety requirements.
Squishy toys are soft sensory toys made from foam or gel. They are often shaped like food, animals or novelty items.
The toys have become increasingly popular with children. Some counterfeit versions copy well-known brands, which can make it difficult for shoppers to tell the difference.
Squeezy dumpling toys are among the items removed. These are often sold in small plastic steamer baskets. “Salted butter” bar squishy toys were also seized.
Businesses have been advised of toy safety requirements and their legal responsibilities.
Parents and carers are also being warned about a dangerous social media trend which encourages children on TikTok to heat squishy toys in a microwave.
When the toys are heated, they can burst and cause serious burns.
Similar sensory toys have also been found to have serious safety concerns. They can contain unsafe levels of chemicals and cause irritation to the skin, eyes and breathing.
Other toys have been removed from sale because they do not have important safety information. This includes age recommendations, UK importer details, or the required UKCA or CE safety markings.
Children should be supervised when using sensory toys. Toys with a strong chemical or petrol-like smell should not be bought or played with.
Anyone who has concerns about a toy they have bought should stop using it immediately.
Councillor Marie McGurk, Renfrewshire Council’s Communities Convener, said: “Children’s safety is always our priority. We want Renfrewshire families to be aware of the risks these toys can have.
“Our Trading Standards team work closely with local businesses. Visits to premises ensures any toys found to be unsafe are removed from sale. The team help retailers understand their responsibilities when sourcing products.
“I would encourage parents and carers to take a few extra moments to check toys before buying. Speak to your children about the dangers of copying social media trends. A simple conversation could help prevent a serious injury.”
Parents and carers can read about squishy toys warning on the Child Accident Prevention Trust website, here: https://capt.org.uk/squishy-toys-warning.
Further guidance on consumer rights is available through Advice Direct Scotland, here: www.advicedirect.scot.
Photo: Squishy toys seized by Renfrewshire Council Trading Standards officers.
Photo Credit: Renfrewshire Council
Photo: Novelty cube squishy toys.
Photo Credit: Renfrewshire Council
Photo: Danger: Salted butter and cheese squishy toys.
Photo Credit: Renfrewshire Council
Photo: Steamed bun squishy toys were also removed from stores.
Photo Credit: Renfrewshire Council