Eco-Friendly & Safe: How We Choose Our Toys

As parents and caregivers, choosing toys for our children is more than just picking something fun - it’s about choosing products that are safe, sustainable, and support healthy development. At Cotton Planet, we’re proud to offer eco-friendly toys that parents can feel good about - because your child’s safety and the health of our planet are our top priorities.

In this post, we’re giving you a behind-the-scenes look at how we choose the toys we stock. By partnering with suppliers committed to child development and to our planet, every toy we offer meets a set of strict standards - so you can shop with confidence and peace of mind.

Why Eco-Friendly Toys Matter

Toys are a big part of childhood, but not all toys are created equal. Many conventional toys are made from plastic, contain harmful chemicals, and end up in landfills after a short lifespan.

Choosing eco-friendly toys isn’t just about being trendy - it’s about:

• Protecting your child’s health by avoiding toxic materials

• Preserving the environment by reducing plastic waste

• Supporting ethical companies that care about their impact on people and the planet

Our commitment to eco-conscious living starts with choosing the right partners. Let’s take a closer look at how we ensure every toy we stock aligns with our values.

1. We Choose Biodegradable, Recyclable, or Recycled Materials

One of our first criteria when selecting toys is their environmental footprint. We seek out suppliers that prioritise sustainable production practices, starting with the materials they use.

Our eco-friendly toy partners use:

• Biodegradable materials, like natural rubber and cornstarch-based plastics

• Recyclable components, such as cardboard packaging and simple wooden parts

• Recycled materials, including reclaimed plastics and fabrics

By focusing on these materials, we reduce the amount of waste that ends up in landfills and promote a circular economy - one where resources are reused, not discarded.

Why This Matters for Parents:

• Less environmental guilt: you're choosing toys that won’t harm the planet

• Safer play: natural materials are often free from harsh chemicals

• Positive role modelling: your child learns the value of sustainability early on

2. We Prioritise FSC® Certified Wood and Water-Based Paint

Wooden toys have stood the test of time for a reason - they’re durable, timeless, and full of charm. But not all wooden toys are created sustainably. That’s why we only stock wooden toys made from FSC® (Forest Stewardship Council) certified wood.

What FSC® Certification Means:

• The wood is responsibly sourced from well-managed forests

• The production process protects biodiversity and indigenous communities

• Every stage of the supply chain is held to rigorous environmental and social standards

In addition to FSC® wood, we look for toys finished with water-based paints and natural oils - safe for children to chew, touch, and play with.

Benefits for Your Family:

• No toxic fumes or harmful residues

• Beautiful, natural finishes that age gracefully

• Peace of mind, knowing your child’s toys are as safe as they are stylish

3. Our Suppliers Are Committed to Sustainability

Sustainability is more than just materials - it’s a mindset. We only work with suppliers who share our long-term vision for a healthier planet and a better future for our children.

What We Look for in a Supplier:

• A company-wide sustainability policy

• Carbon-neutral or low-emission manufacturing practices

• Ethical labour standards and fair trade certifications

• Thoughtful, minimalist packaging using recycled or recyclable materials

Some of our suppliers go even further, investing in renewable energy, reforestation projects, or social impact programs that benefit local communities.

These efforts mean:

• Every toy tells a story of care and responsibility

• Your purchase supports ethical businesses and meaningful causes

• You become part of a community of conscious consumers

4. Every Toy Meets European Safety Standards

Safety comes first - always. Every toy we sell must meet or exceed all European toy safety certifications, including EN71 standards.

What That Includes:

• Mechanical and physical safety: No sharp edges or small parts that can be swallowed

• Chemical safety: Free from lead, phthalates, and other harmful substances

• Fire and hygiene safety: Non-flammable and easy to clean

We also work closely with suppliers who regularly test their products in accredited labs, ensuring ongoing compliance and safety.

Why This Reassures Parents:

• Your child can play, chew, and explore without worry

• You won’t have to second-guess if a toy is safe

• Long-lasting quality that stands up to everyday use

5. We Support Toys That Help Children Grow

A great toy does more than entertain - it helps children learn, imagine, and grow. We choose toys that are not just safe and sustainable, but also developmentally appropriate and enriching.

Features We Look For:

• Open-ended play: Toys that inspire creativity and imagination

• STEM learning tools: Toys that build problem-solving and logical thinking skills

• Fine motor and sensory development: Especially for babies and toddlers

• Social-emotional growth: Dolls, role-play sets, and cooperative games

Many of our eco-friendly toys are Montessori-inspired, supporting natural curiosity and independent learning.

What This Means for Kids:

• Fewer noisy, battery-operated toys - more thoughtful, engaging play

• Toys that grow with your child, not just entertain for a week

• A foundation for lifelong learning, self-confidence, and joy

Why Parents Trust Us

We know that shopping for your child - or for the little ones in your life - is an act of love. That’s why we’re passionate about offering toys that reflect your values.

When you shop with us, you can count on:

• A curated selection of eco-friendly toys from trusted brands

• Transparent information about materials, safety, and origins

• A passionate team that believes in quality over quantity

Don’t Just Take Our Word For It:

We regularly hear from parents and grandparents who appreciate our commitment to safe, sustainable play. They tell us they love:

• The peace of mind knowing their kids are safe

• The joyful reactions from their little ones

• The feeling of making a difference, one toy at a time

Ready to Make the Switch to Eco-Friendly Toys?

Whether you’re shopping for a birthday, a holiday, or just because - it’s easy to make a better choice when you shop with us. Every toy you buy supports a greener planet, ethical business practices, and happy, healthy kids.

Here’s what you can do:

1. Explore our collection of eco-friendly toys online

2. Ask us questions - we’re always here to help you choose the right toy

Together, we can create a better world for our children - one toy at a time.

Let’s play with purpose. Let’s raise kind, conscious kids. Let’s build a better tomorrow - together.