Can old plastic toys from garage sales contain banned chemicals?

What's hiding in old toys

Plastic toys manufactured before current safety standards may contain chemicals that have since been banned or restricted. Phthalates, lead paint, BPA, and brominated flame retardants were all common in children's products until regulations caught up. A toy from 2010 or earlier could contain any of these.

You can't tell by looking at a toy whether it contains banned chemicals. The plastic might look fine, but the softeners, colorants, and stabilizers inside could be substances that are no longer allowed in new products.

What the research says

A 2026 study tested second-hand children's toys and found legacy plasticizers and volatile substances that have been phased out of newer products. These older chemicals were present at levels that exceed current safety limits.

Research from 2026 showed that plastic degrades over time, and older toys release chemicals at higher rates than new ones. Cracking, discoloration, and sticky surfaces are all signs that the plastic is breaking down and actively releasing its chemical additives.

A 2026 analysis found that children mouthing older plastic toys had higher exposure to certain restricted chemicals than children using only new products, confirming that age and condition of the toy directly affects safety.

What to check before buying used toys

Avoid soft, flexible plastic toys that are visibly aged, sticky, or discolored. Hard plastic and wood toys are generally safer bets. Skip any toy without a manufacturer label or date. Avoid painted toys if the paint is chipping. When in doubt, choose used toys made from wood, metal, or fabric rather than flexible plastic.