Crochet, amigurumi and soft toys: GPSR, toy safety and CE marking
This is the product type where sellers most often get it wrong. If an item is designed or intended for play by children under 14, it's a toy under EU law, whatever your listing says. That means the Toy Safety Directive 2009/48/EC (being replaced by the new Toy Safety Regulation) applies, not just GPSR.
What toy rules require
- A safety assessment and technical documentation.
- Conformity with the harmonised standards: EN 71-1 (mechanical/physical), EN 71-2 (flammability) and EN 71-3 (migration of elements).
- An EU Declaration of Conformity and CE marking.
- Traceability: type/batch number, plus manufacturer and EU importer/representative details.
Why baby items are the strictest
Toys for children under 36 months must pass small-parts tests after abuse testing (torque, tension, seam strength and drop). Safety eyes, buttons and bells are common failure points. Note that the warning "Not suitable for children under 3" may not be used on a toy that is clearly intended for babies. It doesn't make the product compliant.
Where GPSR still applies
GPSR covers what toy law doesn't: the online listing information (Art. 19), accident reporting through the Safety Business Gateway (Art. 20), and recalls. You need both.
Options for small makers
- Use embroidered eyes and no detachable parts, and test seam strength.
- Get EN 71 tests from an accredited lab (some offer shared testing for crafters).
- Or design and market the item as decor for adults and teens, honestly. Presentation decides the category.
Check your product
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