Warning issued over unsafe children’s squishy toys

North Somerset Council is warning people to be cautious when buying popular children’s “squishy” toys after removing hundreds of potentially unsafe products from local shops, due to concerns around their safety and compliance with UK legislation.

Squishy toys are made from soft, pliable foam and are often modelled on food items such as bao buns, noodles and butter sticks, as well as simple cube-shaped toys.

Unsafe counterfeit squishy toys have flooded the market as their popularity has increased (Photo: North Somerset Council)

During recent visits to retailers across North Somerset, Trading Standards officers removed 26 different types of squishy toys, totalling more than 300 individual items, while further enquiries are carried out.

Many of the toys examined did not display the required CE or UKCA markings and were found to be of poor quality. Others featured well-known brand names and trademarks, but retailers were unable to provide evidence that they had permission to use them.

As part of the same operation, officers also removed more than 750 other non-compliant toys, over 230 cosmetic products that were incorrectly labelled, and children’s clothing containing loose hood cords that pose a strangulation risk and are prohibited under safety regulations.

Councillor James Clayton, North Somerset Council’s Cabinet Member for Regulatory Services, Sports and Pride in Place programme, said:

“Counterfeit and non-compliant toys are not just illegal, they can be dangerous.

“Parents and carers should be particularly cautious when buying toys from unfamiliar sellers or products that appear unusually cheap. Toys sold in the UK must meet strict safety requirements designed to protect children.

“Our Trading Standards team will continue to work with businesses to remove unsafe products from sale and help ensure consumers can shop with confidence.

Counterfeit goods often bypass important safety checks, infringe intellectual property rights and undermine legitimate businesses that comply with UK standards.

Cllr Clayton added: “We are committed to protecting residents in our communities – especially children – from unsafe products. I encourage anyone who suspects that a product may be unsafe or counterfeit to report it immediately.” 

To report concerns about counterfeit or unsafe goods contact Citizen’s Advice consumer helpline on 0808 223 1133 or use the contact form or chat function at www.citizensadvice.org.uk.