The right toys change as your baby grows, so we've grouped everything by how little ones play. For newborns and young babies, start with soft rattles, crinkle toys and activity toys and play gyms that encourage tummy time, reaching and grasping. When teething begins, natural rubber and silicone teethers help soothe sore gums, and stroller toys keep babies entertained on the go.
For comfort and cuddles, browse organic cotton plush toys, loveys and dolls. Make bath time fun with sealed, mould-free bath toys, and build early reading habits with sturdy baby books. As your little one becomes a toddler, pretend play sets and outdoor and riding toys support imagination, balance and confidence.
For stage-by-stage ideas, see our play and development checklist, mobility and play gear checklist and toddler play and learning checklist.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes a baby toy non-toxic?
A non-toxic toy is made without harmful substances such as BPA, phthalates, PVC, lead and other heavy metals. Look for natural materials like organic cotton, natural rubber, food-grade silicone and untreated wood. Birch evaluates every toy against ASTM F963 and EN71, the US and EU toy safety standards.
What are the best toys for a newborn?
Newborns respond best to simple toys that engage their senses: high-contrast patterns, soft rattles, crinkle toys and a play gym for tummy time. You don't need many. A few well-chosen toys you rotate are plenty.
When do babies start teething, and are teethers safe?
Most babies get their first tooth between 4 and 7 months, though it varies widely. Choose solid teethers made from natural rubber or food-grade silicone, and chill them in the fridge rather than the freezer. Avoid teething necklaces, bracelets and numbing gels. Shop our teethers.
Can my baby sleep with a plush toy or lovey?
No, not before 12 months. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends keeping soft objects, including plush toys and loveys, out of a baby's sleep space for the first year. Use them for supervised cuddles and awake time until then.
How do I know if a toy is right for my child's age?
Always check the age grading on the product, and use the age filter on this page to shop by stage. Toys with small parts are not suitable for children under 3 because they can be a choking hazard. A simple home check: if a toy or part fits inside a toilet paper roll, keep it away from babies and toddlers.
How should I clean baby toys?
Follow the care label. Most plush toys can be machine washed cold and air dried, while natural rubber and silicone toys can be washed with warm soapy water. Sealed, hole-free bath toys stop water getting trapped inside, which prevents mould from building up.
What are good toys for toddlers?
Toddlers love toys that let them copy the world around them and move their bodies. Pretend play sets, dolls, books and riding toys build language, imagination and coordination.
Do you offer free shipping and returns on toys?
Yes. Every order ships free with hassle-free returns, and first-time customers get 15% off at checkout. See our shipping and returns pages for details.
