The Toy Association Statement on Magnets in Toys

Strict federal toy safety standards prohibit the use of certain powerful magnets (usually rare earth magnets) in any toy part that is small enough to be swallowed and is intended for children under 14 years old.

While the U.S. government has restricted the use of such hazardous magnets in children’s toys, these magnets are sometimes found in executive/desk gifts and other non-toy items that are intended for adults and pose a safety risk if given to a child.

Media reports and others have incorrectly referred to these adult magnetic products as “toys.” They are not toys – and are not appropriate for children. This is yet another reason why it is critically important to always choose age-appropriate products for kids and follow the age-grading information on toy packaging.

The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) approved a final rule for the implementation of 16 CFR 1262 Safety Standard for Magnets, which is designed to address magnets that are outside the scope of the ASTM F963 toy standard. The new rule expressly exempts toys since it recognizes the existing safety requirements for toys as being effective and applies the same magnet strength requirement from the toy standard. All applicable products manufactured or imported after October 21, 2022, will need to comply with the new requirement.

This statement was updated by The Toy Association in October 2024.