The Best Non-Toxic Toys for Infants in Australia

Babies are naturally curious, and they tend to explore the world by trying to put everything in their mouths. Between around three and twelve months, almost every single thing they grab will be chewed on, sucked on or licked. That means every toy that's within reach is a potential source of chemical exposure - from heavy metals in paint to nasty chemicals in soft plastics to mould growing inside bath squirters.

So what does it actually mean when we say a toy is non-toxic? In Australia, non-toxic toys for infants need to avoid a whole list of nasty stuff - BPA, phthalates, PVC, and lead. They've got to meet Australian safety standards (AS/NZS ISO 8124), and they should be made from safe materials like food-grade silicone or organic cotton. The best non-toxic toys will also have some form of independent testing. Materials to avoid for infant toys include PVC and treated softwoods. And if a toy smells strongly of plastic or chemicals, trust your nose - that's not a good sign.

This guide is written from our perspective at Toys"R"Us Australia, and we've focused on toy types and brands that are actually available to Australian parents, ranked by how safe they are, the materials they're made from and how well they support your baby's development.

How We Chose the Best Non-Toxic Toys for Infants

We looked at toys suitable for roughly 0–12 months from some pretty reputable brands - including some of the big names we stock. Here are the factors that mattered most:

• Safety and compliance: can they pass the AS/NZS ISO 8124 safety standards?
• Materials: do they use food-grade silicone, organic cotton, or unfinished wood?
• Non-toxic finishes: no lead, phthalates or formaldehyde glues - just good old-fashioned water-based paint or dye
• Age-appropriateness: no small parts, and designed for little ones to put their mouths on
• Cleanability: can they be wiped, washed or sterilised without breaking down?
• Developmental value: do they help with sensory, fine-motor and cognitive growth?
• Parent feedback: what do other parents say about the brand, and is there a history of recalls?
• Value for money: are they worth the cash, or are they overpriced?

We didn't bother with unverified "eco" imports from far-flung places, even if they claim to be all-natural. At the end of the day, the best non-toxic toys are simple, durable and made from safe materials. And the best way to be sure? Independent testing.

The Best Non-Toxic Toys for Infants (0–12 Months)

This list covers teething rings, soft toys, rattles, play gyms, bath toys and sensory items - all the good stuff that Aussie parents need. We've ranked the toys on how safe they are and how practical they are for everyday use.

1. Food-Grade Silicone Teething Rings

These are go-to non-toxic toys for a reason. They're made from food-grade silicone, so they're heat-resistant and won't leach any nasty chemicals. Plus, they're simple, one-piece designs that are less likely to harbour mould. And best of all, they come in a range of textures that will help soothe your little one's gums while they explore the world with their mouth.

Why it stands out

• No nasty chemicals or heavy metals
• Simple, easy to wash designs
• Multiple textures to keep your little one engaged

Best for

Parents of 3-9 month olds who need a safe chew toy to toss in the pram, car seat or nappy bag.

Key strengths

• BPA-free, phthalate-free, independently tested
• Lightweight and easy for small hands to grasp
• Can be chilled in the fridge for teething relief

Possible limitations

• They're pretty functional, so they may not be the most cuddly option
• Textured designs might attract lint and need washing more often

2. Organic Cotton Soft Toys and Comforters

These little guys are made from 100% GOTS-certified organic cotton, and they're perfect for newborns under supervision. The best part? They're often made with low-impact dyes and sustainable materials, which means they're a lot better for the environment than your average toy.

Why it stands out

• Organic cotton is naturally soft and breathable
• Embroidered eyes instead of plastic buttons - no choking hazards here
• Brands like Apple Park are setting the standard for organic toys

Best for

Parents who want to give their newborn a gift that's a little more special, or parents who just want to keep synthetics away from their baby's face.

Key strengths

• Water-based dyes on organic cotton
• Soft and lightweight, easy to clutch
• Machine-washable (just check the label first)

Possible limitations

• They can get a bit misshapen if you wash them too hot
• Absorbs drool and milk, so needs regular washing

3. Natural Wooden Rattles and Grasping Toys

These simple wooden rings and rattles are perfect for babies from about 3 months, and they're just what they need to start grasping, shaking and mouthing their way through the world.

Why it stands out

• Natural wood is a great material for little ones to chew on
• Simple designs avoid any nasty chemicals or glues
• A great way to start your little one on their journey of discovery.Unfinished hardwoods are naturally the best - they pack a punch when it comes to being antimicrobial and free of plastics of any sort . On the other hand - really - sustainable hardwood toys should get a food-safe oil or wax finish rather than some nasty synthetic varnish. The Plan Toys Bell Rattle Pastel is a great example of this approach being taken to a whole new level .

For older children - the Grimm's Stepped Pyramid is actually doing things right - made from alder wood, non-toxic oil and 100 blocks - this is a toy that really lets your little one grow with it. The Qtoys Wooden Rainmaker is perfect for toddlers, encouraging sensory exploration as your little one gets all up in there - even as your baby starts to develop.

Best For

Families that need to get away from plastic - and who really love that minimalist vibe that comes with Montessori or Waldorf-inspired decor.

Key Strengths

• Put together really solidly with no loose small bits to worry about
• Gets a finish with beeswax or plant oils - nice and gentle
• Easy-peasy to wipe clean, and it still looks great in any nursery

Possible Limitations

• No boiling or sterilising for these guys - just a damp cloth will do
• Some of these toys can get a bit on the heavy side, so a bit of care is needed with very young babies

4. Non-Toxic Activity Gyms and Play Mats

These are the Activity Gyms that combine a padded mat with some overhead toys, perfect for newborns to about 6 months for tummy time.

Why It Stands Out

It's all about getting your little one moving  from reaching, to rolling, to head control and getting those eyes to track. With active toys, you are helping your infant develop those all-important motor skills from as early as the first few weeks . When picking one out, look for a mat backing that is free of PVC, water-based prints and wooden or BPA-free arches. Something like the Playgro Snuggle Me Penguin Tummy Time Gym really offers a whole play space that is packed with all sorts of great developmental features.

Best For

Parents who really need a safe tummy-time setup. Small homes where one product needs to pull double-duty as both play space and visual stimulation.

Key Strengths

• Loads of removable toys made from non-toxic materials
• The padded mat usually is machine washable
• It grows with your baby from lying to rolling to sitting down

Possible Limitations

• It takes up some floor space unless it folds up neatly
• Keep an eye on it for loose stitching as your baby starts to get more mobile

5. Textured Cloth and Crinkle Books

These are some of the softest books with fabric pages, crinkle inserts and high-contrast images, perfect from birth.

Why It Stands Out

These are not just a quiet distraction - they are actually helping with early literacy and bonding, and they are safe for your baby to chew on. Quality ones use azo-free dyes, baby-safe inks and securely stitched pages. And lots of them have non-toxic clips that let you attach them to your pram - perfect for travelling with your little one.

Best For

Parents who love reading to their baby from day one and need some quiet, portable entertainment.

Key Strengths

• Really lightweight, scrunchable and chewable
• Machine washable in a laundry bag
• Helps develop those all-important fine-motor skills as your baby turns the pages

Possible Limitations

• Crinkle inserts might break down if they get washed in really hot water on a regular basis
• Older babies (10-12 months) will probably lose interest with these pretty quickly

6. Non-Toxic Bath Toys

Bath toys for around 6-12 months made from food-grade silicone or BPA-free plastics, so they can withstand the heat of the water and not leach any nasty chemicals.

Why It Stands Out

Those traditional bath toys are just begging to trap water and grow some mould . Non-toxic ones either come apart for drying or are fully sealed to stop the water getting in. Plus, pouring, scooping and splashing all encourage coordination and make bath time a real treat for your little one.

Best For

Families who really love baths and are worried about mould or chemicals leaching in the warm water. We just saw a study that showed that PFAS can actually migrate from stuffed toys under mouthing conditions, so getting verified-safe materials really matters even more in water.

Key Strengths

• Desigend to withstand hot water exposure without leaching any nasties
• Real easy to rinse and air dry
• Can double as out-of-bath sensory toys

Possible Limitations

• They need regular drying to stay mould-free
• Some of them are a bit pricier than generic bath squirters

7. High-Contrast Non-Toxic Sensory Cards and Mobiles

These are the high-contrast visual cards and simple mobiles that are perfect for your little one from birth.

Why It Stands Out

Newborns can only see in high contrast - so these are a real must-have. Quality ones use non-toxic inks on sturdy board or fabric. They work perfectly during tummy time, nappy changes and even in the pram - a super easy way to get your baby's developing vision going.

Best For

Newborns to 4-5 month olds who are starting to track movement. Parents who want low-clutter, screen-free stimulation.

Key Strengths

• Really flat and compact, making them perfect for travel
• Printed with baby-safe inks
• Supports early visual development

Possible Limitations

• Their really useful life is pretty short, and your baby will likely lose interest soon
• Cards can bend or fray if your baby is constantly chewing on them

Quick Comparison of the Best Non-Toxic Infant Toy Types

Here's a super quick cheat sheet to match toy types to your needs:

• Food-Grade Silicone Teething Rings - Best for daily teething relief and safe mouthing from about 3 months* Organic Cotton Soft Toys and Comforters - For the ultimate in newborn cuddles, sleep associations and worry-free gifting
• Natural Wooden Rattles and Grasping Toys - Perfect for plastic-free sensory play and those early fine-motor skills
• Non-Toxic Activity Gyms and Play Mats - Ideal for keeping a close eye on those first tummy time sessions and your little one's full-body development
• Textured Cloth and Crinkle Books - Great for making early reading routines and quiet, on-the-go play a breeze
• Non-Toxic Bath Toys - Because bath time doesn't have to be a scary experience - let it be a fun sensory playtime instead
• High-Contrast Sensory Cards and Mobiles - Newborn visual stimulation has never been so easy - simple, yet effective

How to Choose the Right Non-Toxic Toys for Your Little One

You don't need to break the bank or clutter your home with every type of toy at once - here's how to prioritise what matters most.

Picking the Right Toys for Your Baby's Age and Stage

• 0–3 months: This is where those high-contrast cards, super-soft comforters and play mats for tummy time come in
• 3–6 months: Silicone teethers are a must, along with wooden rattles that can withstand some heavy mouthing and cloth books for your little ones to learn to grasp
• 6–12 months: Bath toys are a vital part of playtime, along with more complex rattles and activity gyms that can support your baby in sitting up

As your baby grows into a toddler, the world of non-toxic options just keeps getting better. Take the Stapelstein Rainbow Set for a spin - a great choice for active play and made from totally non-toxic materials. Alternatively, the My Duckling Pikler Play Set is perfect for climbing and sliding activities, coated with non-toxic wood wax oil to promote those all-important climbing and balancing skills. Ride-on toys keep your toddler on the move and climbing toys are just the ticket for developing balance and coordination - browse our full infant and toddler toys range and see what fits your style

Choosing the Right Materials and Sensitivities

If your baby has eczema or sensitive skin, be sure to look for toys that are made from breathable cotton and smooth silicone rather than scratchy synthetic fabrics. BPA-free, phthalate-free, PVC-free and GOTS-certified organic cotton are all good starting points. Don't go for quantity over quality - a smaller selection of top-notch toys beats a huge bunch of dodgy ones any day

Choosing the Right Toys for Your Lifestyle and Cleaning Routine

If you're a busy parent, grab those machine-washable or dishwasher-safe toys (silicone, cloth books) - you'll be grateful for the extra time. Don't go wild - one teether, one soft toy, one rattle, one bath set and one tummy-time option will keep things sweet for the first year

Which Non-Toxic Toys Are the Best for Your Family?

If you're stuck for what to get, try these:

• Grab food-grade silicone teethers if your baby is a master chomper who needs something they can sterilise on the fly
• Choose organic cotton comforters if you're on the hunt for a cuddly sleep companion and a gift that's safe as houses
• If your little one can't get enough of shaking and rattling, go for wooden rattles - they're hard to beat for durability and natural, earthy charm
• If your tummy time sessions are getting a bit stale, throw in a non-toxic play gym and see where it takes you
• If you're always on the go, cloth books and sensory cards are the perfect ticket to quiet, portable playtime
• And if bath time is your go-to play time, grab non-toxic bath toys and watch your little one's face light up

As your child gets a bit older, those imaginative play toys are just the ticket for fine motor skills and creativity - take a look at the Connetix Tiles Rainbow Creative Pack - it's 102 pieces of possibility all in one go. Alternatively, the Guidecraft Mini Wooden Trucks will have your toddler building castles and trading trucks with their friends in no time. When you think about it, the right toy at the right time really does make all the difference

Toys"R"Us Australia has got your back when it comes to the right mix of safe and educational toys for every age - from 0 to 3 and beyond. Browse online and have the lot delivered right to your door across Australia - no weekend shopping trip required

Final Thoughts

When we say "non-toxic", we're talking about something way more than just a marketing label. It's about being serious about safety - verified by real-world testing, with smart materials and some serious know-how. Size doesn't matter - a few select toys that hit the spot at the right age is the way to go. So think about what works for you and your little one - your home space, your lifestyle and your level of trust in the toys you put in front of your child. Start with a small selection and go from there - online shopping with a delivery service that's got your back across Australia is a pretty sweet deal too.