How dangerous is lead in toys?

Some toys, especially imported toys, antique toys, and toy jewelry, may contain lead. Although lead is invisible to the naked eye and has no smell, exposure to lead can seriously harm a child’s health.

Does plastic have lead in it?

The use of lead in plastics has not been banned. It may also be used in plastic toys to stabilize molecules from heat. Lead dust can be formed when plastic is exposed to sunlight, air, and detergents that break down the chemical bond between the lead and plastics.

Why are there so many toys with lead in them?

Lead in Toys: Toys Still on Shelves. Most lead poisoning in this country is caused by lead-based paint. Although banned in 1978, it continues to be a hazard in 25% of U.S. homes with kids under age 6. However, about 30% of the childhood lead poison cases followed by the CDC are not caused by paint.

Are there any recalls on toys with lead paint?

Even one lead-contaminated toy is too many,” said Tano Toussaint, Consumer Watchdog Associate for U.S. PIRG. This latest recall harkens back to the 2007 rash of recalls that occured because of lead paint in toys and ultimately lead to stronger enforcement powers for the CPSC.

Can a child be exposed to lead from jewelry?

Just wearing toy jewelry that contains lead will not cause your child to have a high level of lead in their blood. However, chewing, sucking on or swallowing toy jewelry that contains lead will expose your child to lead. Make sure children in your home do not have access to jewelry or other items that may contain lead.

What causes lead dust to form on toys?

Lead dust can form on toys when some plastics are exposed to sunlight, air, and detergents that break down the chemical bond between the lead and plastics. Lead also may be combined with other metals, such as tin, to create alloys that are used to make toys.