Discover the Best Eco-Friendly Kids Toy Brands of 2023

By Steven Green | May 15, 2023

As we look around us, we see a world struggling with the impact of human activity on our environment. The planet is in need of healing and preservation for future generations to thrive.

As parents, caregivers, and educators, it’s our responsibility to teach children about sustainability and environmental consciousness from an early age.

One way to achieve this is by choosing eco-friendly toys that are made with non-toxic materials, sustainable resources, and ethical manufacturing practices.

In today’s article, we will be exploring the 10 best eco-friendly kids toy brands in no particular order that prioritize the needs of both children and the environment.

These brands offer innovative designs that spark creativity while also promoting healthy development in young minds.

By supporting these companies, we can make conscious choices about what our children play with while contributing to a more sustainable future for all.

Let’s dive into these 10 brands for eco-conscious parents seeking quality toys for their little ones!

Melissa & Doug

Looking for eco-friendly toys that are both educational and fun? Look no further than Melissa & Doug!

This family-owned toy company has been producing high-quality, non-toxic toys since 1988. From wooden puzzles to arts and crafts kits, there’s something for every child in their extensive collection.

Not only do these toys help promote creativity and imagination, but they’re also made with the environment in mind.

By Melissa & Doug

Many of their products are crafted from sustainable materials such as wood or recycled plastic, making them a great option for parents who want to reduce their carbon footprint without sacrificing playtime.

With Melissa & Doug, you can feel good about giving your child a toy that’s not only safe but socially responsible too.

Sustainable business practices:

Has FSC certification ensures that products come from responsibly managed forests that provide environmental, social and economic benefits.

To contribute to thriving forests around the world, Melissa & Doug has partnered with One Tree Planted, a nonprofit organization dedicated to global reforestation.

One Tree Planted will plant one tree for every tree that Melissa & Doug uses each year.

Once-Kids

Melissa & Doug may be a top eco-friendly kids toy brand, but there are other brands out there that deserve recognition for their sustainable and ethical practices. Have you heard of Once-Kids?

This company is committed to creating toys that are not only safe and fun for children but also environmentally conscious.

One reason why parents should consider buying from Once-Kids is their use of natural materials such as bamboo, wood, and cotton.

By Once Kids

These materials have low environmental impact and can also withstand wear and tear from children’s playtime.

Furthermore, the company makes sure to source these materials responsibly by working with suppliers who promote fair labor practices.

Sustainable business practices:

Once Kids’ products are made from environmentally friendly wood – a biodegradable and renewable resource while their packaging is made entirely from recycled paper.

As we move on to discussing ezplay, it’s important to note how companies like Once-Kids prioritize sustainability in every aspect of their business model.

By choosing to support these types of brands, we can make a positive impact on both our children’s lives and the environment they will inherit.

EZPlay

EZPlay is a brand that offers eco-friendly and sustainable toys for kids. They have a wide range of products that are made with natural materials like wood, bamboo, and organic cotton.

EZPlay’s mission is to create high-quality toys that are not only fun but also safe for children and the environment.

One of their most popular products is the wooden balance bike which helps kids learn how to balance while riding a bike without using training wheels.

This toy encourages outdoor play and promotes physical activity among children.

Besides that, EZPlay uses non-toxic paints and finishes on all their wooden toys, making them safe for young children who tend to put everything in their mouths.

Moving onto the next section about green toys – it’s important to note that companies like EZPlay are setting an example by creating sustainable toys that promote environmental stewardship.

By choosing green toys, parents can help teach their children about sustainability while still providing them with engaging activities that foster creativity and imagination.

Sustainable business practices:

They use ash wood and quality fittings to produce long-lasting play structures while they use only water-based paint and solvents to work the wood to a high level of craftmenship.

Green Toys

Like a breath of fresh air, Green Toys offers an array of eco-friendly toys that are made from 100% recycled plastic.

Their mission is to create products that inspire creativity and play while also reducing our carbon footprint on the planet.

Each toy is designed with durability in mind, ensuring they will last for years to come and can be passed down from generation to generation.

Green Toys’ commitment to sustainability goes beyond just using recycled materials. They have implemented innovative manufacturing processes that minimize energy usage and water waste.

Green Toys

Plus, their packaging is made from 100% recyclable materials, so you can feel good about your purchase every step of the way.

With options ranging from classic vehicles to imaginative playsets, there’s something for every child to enjoy while also making a positive impact on the environment.

Transitioning seamlessly into Lovevery, another brand dedicated to creating sustainable toys for children, you’ll find more high-quality options that support early childhood development.

Sustainable business practices:

Their local supply chain, which utilizes locally sourced materials and a stringent quality control process, guarantees authentic, American-made goods of the highest quality.

Using 100% post-consumer recycled plastic, they not only divert material from landfills, but also reduce our carbon footprint and potentially harmful greenhouse gas emissions.

Green Toys’ non-toxic food-safe toys and tableware are tested throughout every stage of production, and meet or exceed all relevant safety standards.

Lovevery

Lovevery is a brand that focuses on creating sustainable and eco-friendly toys for children. The company’s mission is to provide parents with the tools they need to help their child thrive through play, while also being mindful of the environment.

Their products are designed by experts in child development and made from high-quality materials such as sustainably harvested wood, organic cotton, and non-toxic finishes.

Lovevery offers age-appropriate toy kits that grow with your child, ensuring that they are always learning and engaged in healthy play.

By Lovevery

With Lovevery, you can feel good about giving your child safe and environmentally conscious toys that will foster their growth and development.

As we transition into discussing Tender Leaf Toys, it’s important to note how Lovevery sets an example for other brands to follow when it comes to sustainability in the industry.

Their commitment to providing quality products without sacrificing ethical standards should be applauded and serves as inspiration for others to do better in terms of environmental responsibility.

Sustainable business practices:

All Lovevery products are shipped carbon neutrally. By making sure that their items can be repaired or recycled into new products, the firm hopes to increase their commitment to circularity by 2023.

90% of their goods and packaging will be made from recycled, renewable, or biobased materials by 2025 and their whole supply chain will be carbon neutral by 2030.

As we continue our search for the best eco-friendly kids toy brands, it’s no coincidence that we stumbled upon Tender Leaf Toys.

Tender Leaf Toys

With a focus on imaginative play and learning through exploration, Tender Leaf Toys offers an array of options from wooden blocks to dollhouses that will inspire creativity while respecting the planet.

By Tender Leaf Toys

And speaking of respect for the environment, another brand worth mentioning is okonorm.

This German company specializes in creating art supplies made entirely from renewable resources such as plant-based ingredients like cornstarch instead of petroleum-based plastics.

From crayons to finger paints, these products are not only better for the planet but also safer for children who may accidentally consume them during creative sessions.

Sustainable business practices:

Tender Leaf Toys now uses paper and recycled cardboard but is well on the road to plastic-free packaging.

They have received recognition from the ICTI Ethical Toy Program for their ethical and sustainable supply chain.

Okonorm

OkoNorm is a German brand that produces eco-friendly art supplies and toys for kids. They are committed to using natural materials such as beeswax, plant-based pigments, and recycled paper in their products.

OkoNorm’s focus on sustainability also extends to their packaging which is made from recyclable or biodegradable materials.

By Okonorm

Their product line includes modeling clay, paint sets, crayons, and more – all of which are free from harmful chemicals and toxins commonly found in traditional art supplies.

What’s great about OkoNorm is that they not only prioritize the environment but also encourage creativity in children through their safe-to-use products.

With OkoNorm, you can rest assured that your child’s artistic endeavors will not harm the planet nor themselves.

Moving forward onto another company with a shared ethos of creating sustainable toys: Plan Toys.

Sustainable business practices:

Before establishment of ökoNORM the company founders Ellen Schahn and Albert Krohn were actively engaged in environmental protection, citizens’ initiatives and social politics.

They have become acquainted sharing common interests and worked together in ecologically oriented companies.

Plan Toys

Plan Toys is a company that has been making eco-friendly toys since 1981, and they have continued to be a leader in the industry.

In fact, their commitment to sustainability is so strong that they use only organic rubberwood trees that no longer produce latex for all of their products.

This means that not only are Plan Toys’ toys environmentally friendly, but they are also sustainable.

To emphasize the importance of choosing eco-friendly toys like those from Plan Toys, here are four reasons why parents should consider them:

1. They promote imaginative play which enhances creativity and problem-solving skills.
2. They help children learn about environmental responsibility and the importance of protecting our planet.
3. They are made with non-toxic materials which makes them safe for kids to play with.
4. They have a long lifespan due to their durability, reducing waste by encouraging reuse.

By Plan Toys

With these benefits in mind, it’s clear why parents who want to make a positive impact on both their child’s development and the environment would choose Plan Toys over other brands.

Sustainable business practices:

Their solar-powered Children’s Museum is built with chemical-free kiln drying to reinforce the wood.

Their biomass gasification power plant uses any leftover wood to generate electricity for their factory and the local villages.

They use soy inks and recycled paper for their packaging, which is free of plastic.
The business is ISO 9001 and 14001 accredited and is known for its superior environmental management.

And speaking of innovative toy companies committed to sustainability, let’s take a closer look at Clockwork Soldier next.

Clockwork Soldier

We just learned about Plan Toys, a brand that has been making eco-friendly toys for over 30 years.

Now let’s talk about another great company called Clockwork Soldier.

Clockwork Soldier is a UK-based brand that creates innovative and sustainable products for kids.

They believe in using environmentally friendly materials like FSC-certified paper and water-based inks to produce their toys.

Their collection includes craft kits, puzzles, and games that encourage creativity and imagination while being kind to the planet.

By Clockwork Soldier

One of their most popular items is the Build Your Own Kaleidoscope Kit, which lets children assemble their own kaleidoscope with recycled cardboard tubes and mirrors.

With Clockwork Soldier’s commitment to sustainability, parents can feel good about buying their products for their little ones.

As we continue exploring eco-friendly toy brands, it’s important to mention Olli Ella.

This Australian brand creates beautiful playthings made from natural materials like rattan, wool felt, and organic cotton.

From dollhouses to backpacks to tea sets, everything they make is designed with style and sustainability in mind.

Sustainable business practices:

Incorporating environmental considerations into our design process. Using FSC certified card and paper which is recycled or sourced from sustainably managed forests.

Creating minimal waste products, using every available surface to reduce packaging waste. Removing plastics, including laminate coatings from our products wherever possible.

Making their products fully recyclable wherever possible. Printing with earth-friendly inks. Creating products that are flat packed so that they are less volumetric to transport and store.

And now, lastly, Kinderfeets!

Kinderfeets

Continuing our exploration of the best eco-friendly kids toy brands, let’s take a closer look at Kinderfeets.

Did you know that this company was founded by a Dutch designer who wanted to create a balance bike for his son that was both stylish and sustainable?

Today, Kinderfeets offers a range of bikes, trikes, and scooters made from renewable bamboo or birch wood and finished with non-toxic paints.

But what sets Kinderfeets apart is their commitment to giving back.

By Kinderfeets

For every bike sold, they donate one to a child in need through organizations like Bikes Without Borders and World Bicycle Relief.

In addition, they partner with Trees for the Future to plant trees in deforested areas around the world.

By choosing Kinderfeets for your little ones, you’re not just investing in high-quality toys – you’re also supporting a company that cares about making a positive impact on the environment and society as a whole.

Sustainable business practices:

Kinderfeets products are made using fast-growing Bamboo, an extremely adaptable and resilient crop that has the ability to self-regenerate.

Bamboo also doesn’t require toxic chemicals or artificial pesticides for growth and maintenance, which makes it both toxin-free and more cost-effective.

When they are not using Bamboo, they are using eco-friendly birch wood and/or FSC-certified European beechwood.

They also use non-toxic, water-based paints and lacquers, minimal packaging and recycled paper for product information to set children up for a lifetime of planet-friendly living.

Furthermore, part of their annual profits is put toward Trees for the Future – a nonprofit organization that partners with businesses like us to plant trees and combat deforestation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Materials Are Used In The Production Of Eco-Friendly Toys?

Have you ever wondered what materials are used in the production of eco-friendly toys?

It’s important to know that these toys are made using sustainable and non-toxic materials that are safe for both children and the environment.

Materials like organic cotton, bamboo, wood, and recycled plastic are commonly used by eco-friendly toy brands.

These materials not only reduce waste but also promote a healthy lifestyle while being fun for kids to play with.

By choosing eco-friendly toys over conventional ones, we can contribute to a better future for our planet and inspire others to do the same.

Are Eco-Friendly Toys More Expensive Than Traditional Toys?

Are eco-friendly toys more expensive than traditional toys?

This is a common question that parents ask themselves when considering sustainable options for their children.

The answer may surprise you! While some eco-friendly toys can be pricier upfront, they often offer greater value in the long run due to their durability and lack of harmful chemicals.

Plus, investing in environmentally conscious brands supports a healthier planet for future generations.

So next time you’re shopping for your little ones, consider choosing an eco-friendly option – not only will it benefit them but also the world around us.

How Can Parents Dispose Of Old Eco-Friendly Toys Properly?

Wondering how to dispose of old eco-friendly toys properly?

As parents, it is our responsibility to teach our children about taking care of the environment. While these toys are made from sustainable materials and can last longer than traditional toys, they still need to be disposed of correctly once their lifespan ends.

The good news is that many eco-friendly toy brands offer recycling programs or suggest donating them to local charities or schools. You may also consider upcycling them into something new and useful for your home or garden.

By taking the time to dispose of these types of toys properly, we can help reduce waste and protect our planet for future generations.

Do Eco-Friendly Toy Brands Prioritize Sustainable Packaging?

As parents, we all want to make the best choices for our children and the planet. But have you ever considered what happens to the packaging of your child’s favorite eco-friendly toy?

Do these brands prioritize sustainable packaging? Well, according to a recent survey by Earth911, only 31% of eco-friendly toy companies use fully recyclable or compostable materials for their packaging. That means that nearly 70% of them still contribute to plastic waste in landfills or oceans.

It’s like buying organic produce wrapped in layers of non-biodegradable plastic – counterintuitive, right? So before adding another ‘green’ toy to your cart, let’s ask ourselves: is it truly eco-friendly from start to finish?

Are There Any Safety Concerns For Eco-Friendly Toys Compared To Traditional Toys?

When it comes to eco-friendly toys, parents may wonder if they are sacrificing safety for sustainability. However, there is no need to worry as reputable eco-friendly toy brands prioritize the safety of their products just as much as traditional toy brands do.

In fact, many eco-friendly toys are made from natural materials that are non-toxic and free from harmful chemicals commonly found in plastic toys. Additionally, these toys often undergo rigorous testing to ensure they meet safety standards.

So rest assured, you can provide your little ones with safe and sustainable playthings without compromising on quality or peace of mind.

Conclusion

In conclusion, choosing eco-friendly toys for your kids not only benefits the environment but also promotes a healthier lifestyle.

From wooden blocks to recycled plastic dolls, there are plenty of options available that prioritize sustainability and safety without breaking the bank.

Parents can even dispose of old eco-friendly toys in an environmentally friendly way by recycling or donating them.

When shopping for eco-friendly toys, it’s important to look for brands that use sustainable materials and packaging while prioritizing your child’s safety.

By doing so, you’re not only providing your child with endless hours of fun but also teaching them valuable lessons about taking care of our planet.

Remember, every little step towards sustainability counts – just like drops in a bucket fill it up over time!