Plastic vs. wooden toys: Which are better?

Elisa (Plastic)

There is a rising myth that wooden toys are better than plastic, but this is not because they are wooden. Instead, they are often defined as “open ended”, meaning they inspire children’s imagination. According to Sassy Mama, “This myth that wooden toys are better than plastic toys stems from the fact that most wooden toys ARE indeed open-ended, whereas a large proportion of plastic toys in the market are battery-operated, light-flashing and single-purpose toys that don’t do anything to inspire a child’s imagination or creativity, and get thrown out soon after a child gets bored of or grows out of it.” However, there are open-ended plastic toys out there—you just have to do some searching. 

While wooden toys may be great for collectors or special events, they are impractical for the modern child. Toy makers understand this, and over time, almost all wooden toys have transitioned to plastic due to the key factor of durability. Plastic toys are generally more attractive, diverse, cheaper, and easier to clean. And as far as cleanliness goes, this is especially important in our post-pandemic society. Plastic toys are much easier to clean and wipe down, and any parent or teacher knows the importance of keeping toys clean and hygienic. 

Finally, plastic toys are lighter, more brightly colored, and generally safer than wooden toys. Unfortunately, wooden toys may look great initially but are more likely to fade in color and can even grow mold. Wooden toys can break or splinter, and there’s a possibility that some low-quality products can rub harshly against the skin. There’s a reason toys have transitioned to plastic over the years—they are more realistic for modern life and can withstand the modern child.

Dae (Wooden)

In a world dominated by plastic, wooden toys are making a triumphant comeback. Parents and caregivers are increasingly turning to these natural and eco-friendly alternatives for good reason. Here are four compelling arguments for choosing wooden toys over their plastic counterparts.

Wooden toys are crafted from renewable and biodegradable materials, predominantly sustainably sourced wood. This inherent eco-friendliness starkly contrasts plastic toys, which contribute to the growing problem of plastic pollution. 

Wooden toys are built to last. They withstand the rigors of playtime better than their plastic counterparts, which can become brittle and prone to breakage. Wooden toys maintain their structural integrity over time, often serving multiple generations of children. Choosing wooden toys isn't just a wise investment; it's an investment in the planet's sustainability.

Wooden toys provide a sensory experience that can profoundly benefit children's development. Wood's natural texture and weight offer a tactile delight that engages young minds. This tactile stimulation can foster fine motor skills, hand-eye coordination, and a deeper connection with the world around them.

Wooden toys are designed with simplicity in mind, encouraging imaginative play and creativity. Unlike plastic toys with preset sounds and flashy lights, wooden toys leave room for a child's imagination to roam free. From wooden blocks to puzzles and figurines, these toys inspire children to invent their own games and stories, nurturing cognitive and creative growth.

In a world filled with disposable plastic, wooden toys stand out as a sustainable, durable, and imagination-igniting choice for children. They benefit a child's development and contribute to a healthier planet.