How to Choose a Safe Crochet Toy for a Baby

There's something incredibly special about gifting a handmade crochet toy. Soft, unique, and crafted with care, these treasured keepsakes often become a baby's first favourite companion. But when shopping for a little one, safety should always come before cuteness.

If you're wondering what makes a crochet toy safe for babies, here's everything you need to know.

1. Look for Embroidered Features

One of the biggest safety considerations is how the toy's face is made.

While plastic "safety eyes" are popular in crochet toys, they are not recommended for babies and young children as they can become a choking hazard if they loosen over time. Instead, choose toys with embroidered eyes, noses, and other facial details that are stitched directly into the fabric. This removes the risk of small detachable parts.

At Nat's Gibberish, baby-friendly crochet toys are designed with embroidered details wherever possible, giving parents extra peace of mind.

2. Choose High-Quality, Baby-Safe Yarn

Babies have delicate skin and love exploring the world by touching—and chewing—everything they can get their hands on.

Look for toys made from soft, quality yarn that is:

Gentle against sensitive skin

Durable enough for everyday cuddles

Easy to wash

Free from loose fibres that could shed

Cotton yarn is a popular choice for baby toys because it's breathable, durable, and soft, while many premium baby-safe acrylic yarns are also suitable when chosen carefully.

3. Check That the Toy Is Firmly Made

A well-made crochet toy should feel solid without being hard.

Look for:

Tight, even stitches

Securely attached limbs and ears

No loose threads

Stuffing that cannot escape through the stitches

Strong construction helps prevent wear and tear and reduces the chance of stuffing or attached pieces becoming loose.

4. Avoid Small Accessories

Decorative bows, ribbons, buttons, beads, or jewellery may look adorable, but they aren't suitable for babies.

For children under three years old, it's safest to choose simple designs without removable or dangling accessories that could become choking or strangulation hazards.

Simple often means safer—and just as beautiful.

5. Consider the Right Size

Very small toys may not be suitable for young babies, particularly if they could fit entirely into a baby's mouth.

Larger, easy-to-grasp crochet toys are often a better choice, helping babies develop their grip while reducing choking risks. Always choose toys appropriate for the child's age and stage of development.

6. Washability Matters

Babies are wonderfully messy!

From dribbles to snack time, their favourite toy is bound to need regular cleaning. Choosing a crochet toy that can be gently hand washed—or machine washed if recommended by the maker—helps keep it fresh, hygienic, and looking its best.

Always follow the care instructions provided by the maker to help your toy last for years.

7. Buy from a Trusted Handmade Maker

When you purchase from a small handmade business, you're often buying something created with exceptional attention to detail.

Don't be afraid to ask questions such as:

What yarn is used?

Are the features embroidered?

Is it suitable from birth?

How should it be cleaned?

A good maker will happily explain how their toys are made and the safety measures they've taken.

A Final Thought

A handmade crochet toy isn't just another baby gift—it's something that can become part of childhood memories for years to come.

By choosing a toy with embroidered features, quality materials, secure construction, and age-appropriate design, you can enjoy all the charm of handmade while putting safety first.

At Nat's Gibberish, every crochet creation is made with love, care, and attention to detail because little hands deserve the very best.

Looking for a thoughtful baby gift? Explore our collection of handmade crochet toys and discover beautifully crafted companions designed to be treasured for years to come.