I can still picture myself at 8 months pregnant, wading through what felt like hundreds of websites, obsessively searching for the cutest, safest, and most unique toys and gifts for my baby’s very first Christmas. Liberty London fabrics for the nursery? Check. Vintage vibes? Yes, please. The softest, dreamiest “baby’s first” plush animal that money could buy? Absolutely.
Looking back, I realize how exhausting that phase was. (Though my husband swears it was just part of my nesting.) If I’m being honest, I would have loved a guide to make the process easier—something to point me toward unique, safe, and beautiful baby gifts without all the endless scrolling and second-guessing. And had the Veba Baby “Hello World” gift bundle been available for me at that time, it would’ve been the perfect pick for both mama and baby!
That’s exactly why I created this guide! I’ve done the scouring, the researching, and the “is this actually worth it?” deep-dives for you. Whether you’re a parent, a nesting mama, or a thoughtful friend, this guide is packed with safe, stylish, and beautiful brands to help you find the perfect gift for baby’s first (or second!) holiday season—stress-free and downright magical.
Safe toys for baby
We know, your baby’s first holiday gift is exciting! But it’s also important to think of safety first. Here are 3 quick tips to get you thinking about the right gift for your little one.
- Avoid small parts: Tiny pieces can be a choking hazard. You’d be surprised at how quickly a baby and toddler can put something inedible in their mouths.
- Opt for soft edges: Babies love to explore with their mouths and hands. Avoiding sharp edges is a great idea.
- Look for non-toxic materials: Ensure paints and plastics are baby-safe and have the proper safety labels on packages and plastic items. Again, babies put (almost) everything in their mouths.
What makes a baby’s toy toxic?
Let’s talk about what actually makes a toy toxic for a baby. In simple terms, a toy is considered toxic if it contains harmful chemicals like lead, BPA, phthalates, or formaldehyde—common culprits found in paints, plastics, or finishes on cheaply made toys. These toxins can leach into your baby’s system when they chew, suck, or handle the toy (because of course, that’s how babies do life).
Now, let’s talk about vintage toys for a moment. I get it—they’re trendy, they’re charming, and to be honest, I LOVE and support the idea of reducing our footprint and giving something a second life. It feels so good! But when it comes to baby toys, it’s better to steer clear. (Sorry!) Truth is, most of those older toys will likely not meet today’s safety standards, and with babies’ tendency to chew first and ask questions later, it’s just not worth the risk.
Tips for checking the safety of a toy:
Check out these quick tips on safety:
- Look for safety certifications: Stick to brands and toys that meet ASTM, CPSIA, or EN71 safety standards.
- Check the labels: Phrases like “BPA-Free,” “Phthalate-Free,” and “Non-Toxic” are great indicators.
- Choose natural materials: Opt for toys made from unfinished or water-based painted wood, organic fabrics, or food-grade silicone.
- Skip questionable items: Avoid toys that list suspicious chemicals, have strong chemical smells, or lack any clear safety certifications.
By keeping these tips in mind, you can ensure your little one’s toys are safe, fun, and perfect for their endless exploring (and chewing) adventures!
What are some safe toy brands for baby and toddler toys?
We’ve rounded up some of our favorite brands to simplify your holiday shopping. All of the brands on this list offer a fantastic selection of toys, with some also featuring thoughtful gifting ideas like blankets, nursery items, and clothing. Each of these brands checks off all the boxes—safe, stylish, and guaranteed to make your little one’s holidays extra special.
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Moulin Roty
With their whimsical designs and top-notch craftsmanship, Moulin Roty toys are as charming as they are safe. Made in France, they meet rigorous safety standards and offer toys that promote both fun and development. -
Green Toys
Made in the USA from 100% recycled materials, Green Toys are free of BPA, PVC, and phthalates. Their durable, dishwasher friendly toys offer safe, fun play for babies and toddlers. (The tug boat for bath play, or the Minnie and Mickey stackers are some of our favorites.) -
Histoire d’Ours
Designed in France and made with hypoallergenic, non-toxic fabrics, Histoire d’Ours toys are safe and soft enough for newborns. They meet strict European safety standards and offer beautiful options for even the youngest children. -
Konges Sløjd
This Danish brand brings a little magic to baby essentials, offering everything from clothing to nursery decor. Known for their playful designs, they are perfect for any occasion. -
Little Dutch
Designed in the Netherlands and made with child-safe, non-toxic paints, Little Dutch toys are both adorable and durable. With their commitment to EU safety standards, these toys are built to last. -
Grimm’s Spiel & Holz
Grimm’s toys are beautifully crafted from sustainable wood and finished with non-toxic, water-based stains. Made in Germany, these toys encourage creative play while meeting European safety standards. -
Vulli
Best known for Sophie la Girafe, Vulli toys are made from 100% natural rubber and are free from BPA, phthalates, and lead. Manufactured in France, they’re the perfect safe and eco-friendly choice for teething babies. -
Finn & Emma
Finn & Emma’s eco-friendly toys are made from untreated Indian hardwood and organic cotton. Handmade in India and Peru, they offer safe, sustainable options with a beautiful, ethical touch. -
Hape
Hape toys are made from sustainably sourced bamboo and FSC-certified wood, with non-toxic paints and finishes. Manufactured in China under strict safety standards, these toys are built for fun and long-lasting play. -
Plan Toys
Crafted from rubberwood and painted with non-toxic, water-based paints, Plan Toys are a safe and eco-friendly choice. With playful options like the marine puzzle and weather dress-up game, they’re as fun as they are safe. - Veba Baby gift set (Bonus!) For a gift that combines both style and function, the Veba Baby "Hello World" gift set is an ideal choice. Featuring the Veba infant milk tracker for mama, along with a plush animal, blanket, and toy for baby, this neutral-toned set is perfect for baby showers, gender reveals, or welcoming a new arrival.
Best baby presents by age:
0-6 Months:
- Activity Baby Toys: For soft, plush, and practical options, Konges Sløjd has wonderful activity toys perfect for attaching to strollers or car seats to keep little ones entertained. Moulin Roty’s Les Papoum musical mobile offers a charming, soothing design that calms babies during playtime or naps. If you're looking for the dreamiest play mat and activity gym, we highly recommend Finn & Emma's Macrame Round Play Mat & Play Gym bundle.
- Cloth Books: Little Dutch makes the cutest soft fabric books. Featuring engaging textures, vibrant colors, and interactive elements like flaps and mirrors to stimulate sensory development, these books make a great gift.
- Blankets: Little Dutch’s Baby Blanket is soft, cozy, and perfect for keeping babies comfortable during naps or cuddle time. Moulin Roty’s Jolis Trop Beaux Blanket is another beautiful option, adding a touch of elegance to any nursery.
- Stuffed Animals: Histoire d’Ours is known for their incredibly soft and hypoallergenic plush toys, such as the Doudou Bear, which makes a perfect first stuffed animal. Moulin Roty’s Les Doudous, which is like a blankie and stuffed animal hybrid, is also filled with adorable, cuddly options for babies like Paulie the octopus, or Nini the mouse.
- Activity Gyms: The Grimm’s Spiel & Holz Wooden Activity Gym offers beautifully crafted, sustainable wood with engaging features that stimulate your baby’s senses while promoting motor development.
7-24 Months (Teething Months):
- Sensory Toys: Little Dutch soft sensory cube is designed to stimulate a baby’s senses with its variety of textures, colors, and attached accessories like mirrors, tags, and small toys. Also, Vulli's Sophie la Girafe's Senso Ball is made from 100% natural rubber and designed to be lightweight and easy for babies to hold, squeeze, throw, and chew. Either option is perfect for little hands to explore.
- Teething Toys: Vulli Sophie la Girafe remains a classic for teething babies. Made from 100% natural rubber, it’s free from harmful chemicals and perfect for soothing sore gums. Plan Toys also offers a great option with their baby Bell Rattle, made from natural rubberwood and designed with soft, baby-friendly edges. While it's primarily a rattle, it also provides teething relief due to its smooth, non-toxic material. For another teething relief solution, Green Toys offers safe, recycled-material options, like their Twist teething ring.
- Stackable Toys: Grimm’s Spiel & Holz Rainbow Stacker is a beautifully designed wooden stacking toy made from non-toxic stains, helping babies develop hand-eye coordination and problem-solving skills. Plan Toys’ Wooden Stackers are another great option, featuring eco-friendly materials and safe for little ones to chew on.
24-36 Months:
- Shape Sorters: Grimm’s Spiel & Holz wooden shape sorters are an ideal choice to help toddlers recognize shapes and colors while encouraging problem-solving. We really like the Pastel Mushrooms or the Piling Game Moon Houses. Little Dutch’s shape sorters are another great pick that promotes motor skills and cognitive development. They come in a lovely variety of designs, too.
- Building Blocks: Hape’s Maple Wood Building Blocks set, made from sustainably sourced materials, is designed to promote creativity and fine motor skills. Another fantastic option is Grimm’s Spiel & Holz Building Blocks, crafted from sustainable wood and finished with non-toxic stains in vibrant colors.
- Pretend Play Sets: Little Dutch’s Pretend Play Tea Set is a great way to encourage imaginative play and social interaction in toddlers. Moulin Roty's Les Rosalies is a little work of art, and the Konges Sløjd’s FSC Wooden Kitchen sparks creativity and makes for hours of pretend cooking fun.
The merriest of holidays for all
As you choose the perfect toys and gifts for your little ones this holiday season, remember that the most meaningful part of the holidays isn’t just about the presents—it’s about the love, warmth, and joy we share with those we hold dear. May the magic of the season fill your home with happiness and create memories that will last a lifetime. Wishing you and your family the merriest of holidays, filled with love, laughter, and treasured moments that will last a lifetime.
