Most Dangerous Toys in 2020

by Staff Blogger | November 30th, 2020

beware these dangerous toysWhen you buy a toy for child, you just hope they like it. The last thing most consumers even consider is that a toy could present serious health risks for a child. But if you assume that toy manufacturers don’t release dangerous toys, think again. Toys can cause children harm in often surprising ways. For example, though U.S. law forbids manufacturers from using lead in toys, there were at least two high profile instances of toys containing lead (Super Soaker water guns and Aflac toy ducks). In short, though consumers can be somewhat confident about the safety of toys available on the market, they shouldn’t be 100% confident. Consumer safety has come a long way in recent years, but shopping for toys in 2020 is still a buyer beware situation. So, which toys should you think twice before buying in 2020?

Some Dangerous Toys to Avoid in 2020

We’ve compiled the following list based on information from World Against Toys Causing Harm (W.A.T.C.H.), along with information from other consumer safety resources, such as the Consumer Product Safety Commission.

Specific Toys to Avoid

Based on recent recalls and warnings from consumer safety advocates, toy buyers should be cautious if considering any of the following toys: Toys included on the 2020 W.A.T.C.H. list:
  • Calico Critters Nursery Friends
  • GO! Launch Missile Launcher
  • Marvel Avengers Vibranium Power FX Claw
  • Gloria Owl
  • WWE Jumbo Superstar Fists
  • Scientific Explorer Sci-Fi Slime
  • The Original Boomerang Interactive Stunt UFO
  • Boom City Racers Starter Pack
  • My Sweet Love Lots to Love Babies Minis
  • Star Wars Mandalorian Darksaber
Toys from previous lists and recent recalls:
  • NERF Ultra One
  • Spike the Fine Motor Hedgehog
  • Bunchems Bunch N’ Build
  • Yeti
  • Nickelodeon Frozen Treats Slime
  • Anstoy Electronic Toy Gun
  • Diecast School Bus
  • Pogo Trick Board
  • Power Rangers Electronic Cheetah Claw
  • Viga Pull Along Caterpillar
  • Musical Lili Llama
  • Manhattan Ball
  • Super Soaker XP 20 and XP 30 Water Guns
Even though some of these toys have already been recalled, it’s possible early shoppers already purchased them or that stores continue to stock remaining inventory.

General Types of Potentially Dangerous Toys

The following types of toys regularly present dangers to children, even though they continue to be popular among consumers in the U.S. If you’re considering purchasing any of these types of products, at least make sure you’re purchasing them for children old enough to use them safely.
  • Trampolines
  • Bounce houses
  • Water balloon slingshots
  • Micromobility products, including e-scooters, hoverboards, and e-bikes
  • BB guns

What Makes a Toy Dangerous for Children?

Several factors can make toys particularly hazardous for young children. These include: Choking hazards – This hazard is present in toys that have small breakable or detachable components, especially when those toys are marketed to very young children. Dangerous chemicals – Some chemicals, like lead, are less prevalent in toys than they used to be, but they’re still inadvertently included in some toys. Once detected, these products are typically recalled. Toys manufactured overseas (where laws aren’t as restrictive) might also contain dangerous chemicals. Burns – Products that quickly overheat could cause burn or explosion risks to children, as was the case when hoverboards (powered by lithium ion batteries) were popular products. Sharp objects – Toys that have pointy ends or sharp corners can cause serious injuries like lacerations. Improper labeling – If toys aren’t safe for young children or contain dangerous components, consumers should be made aware through easily seen labels on the product or the product’s packaging.

Legal Options for Injuries from Dangerous Products

If you or a loved one has been injured by a dangerous product, you have legal rights to compensation. Product liability laws give you the right to hold manufacturers accountable for the harm caused by dangerous products. To speak to an experienced product liability attorney in Northern California, contact Berg Injury Lawyers today for a free consultation.