Do plastic teething toys contain BPA or phthalates?

What's actually in it

Plastic toys aren't just solid objects. They are complex mixtures of chemicals that can leach out when a baby chews on them. Many plastic items contain bisphenols (like BPA) and phthalates (chemicals used to make plastic soft and flexible). These substances are not locked inside the material. They can move from the toy into your baby's mouth.

Recent testing has also identified other concerning substances in plastic products. Beyond bisphenols, researchers have found PFAS (often called forever chemicals) and various unknown volatile substances in plastic toys. These additives are part of the manufacturing process, but they end up in the hands and mouths of children.

What the research says

The science is clear: plastic toys are a source of chemical exposure for children. A 2026 study in J Expo Sci Environ Epidemiol used modeling to track how children are exposed to BPA and its alternatives through toys. The findings highlight the reality of chemical contact during play.

Other peer-reviewed research confirms that these materials are not stable. A 2026 study in Environ Pollut found that microplastics containing PFAS and bisphenols can trigger inflammatory responses in human cells. Furthermore, a 2026 study in Sci Total Environ identified phthalates and other plasticizers in recycled plastic materials, proving that these chemicals remain present even when plastic is processed for new uses. Finally, a 2026 study in Talanta used advanced testing to detect unknown volatile substances in plastic toys, showing that we still don't know the full scope of what is leaching into our homes.