Joybuy Insights

Buying toys online: a guide for children, adults and pets

If you want to buy toys online, you’ll quickly find a huge range to choose from, from baby grasping toys and construction toys to Fidget Cubes and dog toys. Product photos can look very similar, while important differences only become clear in the small print. So it’s worth looking beyond colour and eye-catching claims when choosing the right toy.

Three common pitfalls can often lead to disappointing purchases:

  1. Unclear age guidance: A toy with small parts or magnets isn’t suitable for young children, even if it looks child-friendly in the product photo.
  2. Overstated durability claims: “Robust” doesn’t tell you much if there’s no information about the material, cleaning or limits of use.
  3. The wrong purpose: A stress-relief toy for adults has different requirements from a creative toy for children or a chew toy for dogs.

Check these buying criteria before you order

1. Age, size and small parts

The age recommendation is an important safety consideration. A magnetic shape-changing cube such as the Shashibo Cube may appeal to older children and adults, but it contains strong magnets. Swallowing magnets can pose a serious health risk. Products with small chips, game pieces or detachable parts should also be kept away from children under three.

For baby toys, look for rounded shapes and a size that’s easy to grasp, and check regularly for cracks or loose parts. Use a baby grasping toy only in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.

2. Material, care and construction

Look for specific material information, such as silicone, plastic, cotton rope or nylon. Cleaning instructions are important, too. According to the product description, the Haba Star Grasp Toy is made from silicone and is dishwasher-safe. The Sigikid Butterfly Grip Toy is machine-washable at 30 °C.

For pet toys, “chewable” doesn’t guarantee that a toy will last. A dog toy should suit your dog’s size, bite strength and play style. The ZEZE Bamboo Chew Toy is specifically not intended for particularly powerful chewers. Check toys regularly for cracks, loose threads and signs of wear.

3. Play value and intended use

A toy might be designed for gentle grasping, creative building, chewing or playing together. A Fidget Cube or magnetic cube is suited to people who enjoy changing shapes and keeping their hands busy. Construction toys, on the other hand, are better for building structures.

For children, clear information about the number of players and the recommended age is helpful. The children’s board game “Animal Poop Bingo” is designed for at least two players aged three and over. Adult supervision is required because it contains small game chips.

For cats and dogs, consider whether a toy is intended for independent or shared play. Interactive pet toys such as a rope ball can encourage exercise and keep your pet occupied, but they don’t replace supervision. Replace a toy straight away if parts come loose or could be swallowed.

Product picks by user profile

Ideal for: Budget-conscious first-time buyers
Stretchy Lizard Toy Red Stripe 1 Pack

Stretchy Lizard Toy Red Stripe 1 Pack

Why this product suits this profile: The Stretchy Lizard Toy comes as a single pack, making it an easy addition to creative games, family activities or a small gift.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product description clearly states what’s in the pack, how the toy is intended to be used and the recommended level of supervision.

Key benefits and strengths

A stretchy design, easy handling and versatile use in creative activities.

Ideal for: Quality-conscious buyers
Haba Star Grasp Toy

Haba Star Grasp Toy

Why this product suits this profile: According to the product information, this grasping toy is designed for babies aged six months and over. It combines a variety of textures with an easy-care design.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The age recommendation, silicone material and dishwasher-safe design are clearly stated; use should be supervised.

Key benefits and strengths

Textured surfaces, a silicone design and clear dishwasher-cleaning instructions.

Ideal for: Specific uses and frequent use
SHASHIBO Shape Changing Magic Cube

SHASHIBO Shape Changing Magic Cube

Why this product suits this profile: This magnetic shape-changing cube is designed for users aged eight and over. Its compact design makes it a handy way to keep busy at home, on the go or at your desk.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product details specify 36 magnets, the material, a cube size of around 5.84 cm and an age recommendation of eight and over.

Key benefits and strengths

36 integrated magnets, more than 70 stated shape variations and a wipe-clean plastic surface.

Looking for more options?

We’ve put together a comprehensive, regularly updated list of products that meet these strict selection criteria and fully comply with the safety regulations in force in the EU.

More tips for choosing toys for children and pets

For babies, the Sigikid Butterfly Grip Toy may be worth considering. It has crinkle paper sewn inside and is made from washable polyester. When choosing a children’s board game, check the number of players, age recommendation and what’s included. The same applies to educational toys: educational claims alone don’t tell you whether a game is right for your child’s stage of development.

For dogs and cats, checking the material and supervising play are key. The ZEZE “Sure” Rope Ball Toy combines a rope and ball for games of fetch or tug. The ZEZE “Really?” Rope Ball Toy is designed for cats. Stop using either product if it becomes damaged. If your dog is a strong chewer, only choose a chew toy if it meets the manufacturer’s guidance on suitable use.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about buying toys online

What should I look for when buying toys online?

Start by checking the age recommendation, material, dimensions, small parts and safety warnings. Cleaning instructions, what’s included and the intended use are important, too. For pet toys, take your pet’s species, size and biting habits into account.

How long do toys usually last?

There’s no set lifespan for toys. It depends on the material, how often the toy is used and how much wear and tear it gets. Check toys regularly and replace them if you spot cracks, loose parts, sharp edges or damaged magnet covers.

Are stress-relief toys suitable for children too?

Not all stress-relief toys are designed for children. A toy with magnets or small parts may not be suitable for younger children. Always follow the age recommendation and safety instructions provided by the manufacturer.