The Consumer Products Safety Commission receives many reports of injury to toddlers caused by toy boxes as a result of the lids falling unexpectedly or even trapping the child inside the box. In addition to these injuries, the box styles can also cause bumps, bruises and pinches that could be avoided if the manufacturer follows the safety precautions.
Though these designs serve many functional purposes including storing toys as well as keeping clutter to a minimum, consumers can have many concerns about the safety of these boxes. As a parent, safety is at the forefront of their mind and is usually most important when purchasing children's toy chests. Many toy boxes may have all the ascetics to match your child's room or blend right into the family room, but do not have the necessary safety components. As a result, it is very important to make certain the style chosen is not only visually pleasing but also follows the safety precautions to protect your child.
Toy Chest Bench
What is Lid Support?
According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, in order for a toy box to be safe for children to use, the style should have a hinged lid with toy box lid supports to ensure the lid will stay open in any position. Many companies now design safe toy chest styles that have well-designed lid supports. This feature ensures that the lid will not fall on top children when trying to retrieve their stored away belongings.
Along with toy box lid support, cutouts at the sides and front of the box just under the lid will prevent pinched fingers when closing the lid. Many of these constructions also serve different purposes including that of a bench, so one should make sure the chest is sturdy and has no sharp edges.
Additional Elements to Look For When Choosing a Safe Toy Chest
Additionally, toy box safety extends to other aspects as well. Many of these designs are lead-free and therefore safe for children of all ages. These structures should also include air ventilation as required by the Consumer Product Safety Commission and should never have a latch or a lock, more importantly should be able to open from the inside in case the child ever falls in.
Once a safe toy chest manufacturer has been found, there are a variety of styles handcrafted in various woods including oak, cherry or espresso, ensuring there is a toy box that blends seamlessly with the rest of the home's decor. Not only that, but there is an array of options to choose from when designing a unique toy box including personalized lettering, wooden borders as well as laser engraving.