Plastic toys from China

Chinese-made toys came under attack a few years ago for having high levels of lead paint — and more than nine million of them were recalled. Because China’s product quality control isn’t as strict as it is in the US or Australia, it’s smart to steer clear of toys made in China. To ease your mind, many toy stores have lists of “Toys Not Made in China” that you can check out before you buy. Or check the recall list online before you toss a toy in your (virtual) cart. Most of us know by now to avoid toxic, BPA-ridden plastic beverage bottles, plastic food storageware, plastic wrap and resealable (or zipper-lock) food storage bags. (If you didn’t know that, now you do!)

But, plastic is everywhere, so toxins can be found in the places you might not know about.