Magnets in toys and kits: what CPSC says
Why swallowed magnets are an emergency, and what the toy standard covers.
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Why swallowed magnets are an emergency
CPSC says two or more swallowed magnets can attract to each other inside the body. CPSC says this can cause perforations, twisting or blockage of the intestines, infection, blood poisoning, and death.
Who is at risk
CPSC says high-powered magnets pose a risk from toddlers through teens, and describes teens using magnets to mimic mouth piercings.
How strong they are
CPSC says high-powered magnets can be up to eight times stronger than magnets used in toys.
Magnets in toys
CPSC says ASTM F963 section 4.38 covers magnets in toys. It says loose small magnets in toys "must have a flux index less than 50," and that "Educational toys intended for children aged 8 and older may contain such magnets if they are appropriately labeled."
Keep them away
CPSC says to keep high-powered magnets away from young children. Read the maker's warnings on any magnet kit.
If a magnet may have been swallowed
CPSC says to seek immediate medical attention, and not to wait for symptoms. In an emergency, call 911.
This is general information, not legal advice.
Sources: CPSC, Magnets (Safety Education Center); CPSC news release, Ingestion of High-Powered Magnetic Balls and Magnetic Cubes Poses Serious Risk of Severe Internal Injury or Death in Children and Teens (2021); eCFR, 16 CFR Part 1262, Safety Standard for Magnets; Federal Register, Safety Standard for Magnet Sets; Removal of Final Rule Vacated by Court (82 FR 12716, March 7, 2017); CPSC, Toy Safety Business Guidance; CPSC news release, CPSC Reminds Early Holiday Shoppers to Follow These Top Safety Tips (October 18, 2022).
FAQ
General information only, for adults choosing toys for children. We do not test, certify, or rate any product, and we do not say any toy or kit is safe or right for a particular child or age. Before you buy or use one, read the maker's age grade, warnings, and instructions, follow any adult supervision directions, and check for recalls at cpsc.gov/Recalls. Keep small parts, magnets, button and coin batteries, and kit chemicals away from young children. A swallowed magnet, button battery, or coin battery needs medical help right away; do not delay. If you think a child swallowed or touched something harmful, call Poison Help at 1-800-222-1222. In an emergency, call 911.
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