Toy Safety
Little Tikes has earned the trust of families by making safety, quality, and durability the foundation of its product development process. From the earliest concept stage through manufacturing and distribution, the company places children’s well-being at the forefront of every decision. Parents and caregivers rely on Little Tikes to provide toys that are safe for everyday play, and this responsibility guides continuous investment in advanced testing, careful material selection, and strict quality controls across all operations.
Safety testing at Little Tikes is comprehensive and ongoing. Products are evaluated multiple times throughout their lifecycle rather than only at the final stage of production. The company partners with independent, industry-recognized third-party laboratories to conduct safety evaluations, ensuring unbiased verification that products comply with applicable regulations. These laboratories assess toys against established safety requirements and often confirm that they exceed minimum standards, reinforcing the company’s commitment to producing dependable, well-tested products.
Material safety is a key focus of this process. Little Tikes conducts routine testing for lead and other heavy metals to confirm that levels remain well within permitted limits. These tests apply to both surface coatings and internal components. In addition, the company proactively avoids using materials that may raise concerns, including BPA, latex, harmful PVC, and phthalates. This approach reflects a commitment to going beyond basic regulatory requirements and prioritizing the long-term safety of children.
Rather than aiming only to meet baseline laws, Little Tikes consistently works to exceed them. All products are tested for compliance with the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act, including strict restrictions on lead content and phthalates. This thorough testing applies across the entire product, helping ensure that every component meets established safety expectations.
Manufacturing practices are another important part of Little Tikes’ quality standards. Many products are proudly manufactured in the United States at the company’s facility in Ohio, allowing for close oversight of production and consistent quality control. The company recognizes that transparency about manufacturing origin is important to customers and provides clear, accurate labeling to help families make informed choices.
Products labeled as made in the United States meet Federal Trade Commission guidelines indicating that virtually all components and assembly are domestic. In some cases, minor imported parts may be used, but these represent only a small portion of the product and are not essential to its function or play value. When applicable, any separately packaged accessories sourced from outside the United States are clearly disclosed. Other products may be labeled as made in the United States using domestic and global components, meaning they are largely produced and assembled in the U.S. with some imported materials. Items manufactured outside the United States clearly identify their country of origin and are held to the same rigorous safety and quality standards.
Little Tikes also certifies that its toys meet recognized safety standards in the regions where they are sold. Products distributed in the United States comply with ASTM F963 toy safety specifications, while products sold internationally meet or exceed EN-71 safety requirements. This global compliance helps ensure consistent quality and safety for families around the world.
Choosing a Little Tikes product means choosing a toy that has been carefully designed, thoroughly tested, and responsibly manufactured. Each item reflects a dedication to exceeding industry standards, meeting regulatory expectations, and delivering the dependable quality that families have trusted for generations.