This child’s toy was purchased from Target in 2023. Silicone products may screen positive for trace cadmium when tested with XRF.
How do you think it tested?
Reading on the Silicone:
| Element of Interest | Parts per million (ppm) | Error Range |
|---|---|---|
| Cadmium (Cd) | 6 | +/- 2 |
| Antimony (Sb) | 15 | +/- 4 |
| Other Elements | ||
| Tin (Sn)* | 6 | +/- 3 |
| Zinc (Zn) | 546 | +/- 19 |
| Niobium (Nb) | 278 | +/- 9 |
| Indium (In)* | 6 | +/- 3 |
The sample was tested in consumer goods TestAll mode using a Niton XL3t 700S for 60 seconds. Results are rounded to the nearest whole number.
How did this item perform compared to lead limits for kid’s products?
Very trace cadmium was detected in this item. The nearest regulatory standard that we can identify that applies to total cadmium content in a children’s toy is a law in Denmark limiting cadmium to 75 ppm. The amount of cadmium detected does not exceed this limit.
Very trace antimony was detected in this item. The presence of antimony in children’s products is common but we do not typically detect it in silicone.
Antimony and cadmium is not regulated at the federal level for total content in children’s products sold in the United States.
But leach testing for antimony and cadmium is required for some toys. Products likely to be mouthed by children under 6 are subject to ASTM chemical testing standards which require surface coatings and substrates to be leach tested for seven regulated elements. We have an article about those standards and which toys apply.
After speaking with staff at the Consumer Product Safety Commission, our understanding is that this kind of toy is likely subject to the requirements. It is marked ages 3 and up and is certain to be mouthed by young children.
So our opinion is that even if very trace antimony and cadmium are detectable via XRF, it does not pose an issue under current toy safety regulations, because this type of product is likely tested for the leaching of antimony and cadmium. Those migration tests are intended to limit exposure of children to toxic elements.
Although we would prefer that toys do not contain trace antimony and cadmium, we do not have a concern with this product and we use it and enjoy it in our home.
We believe in providing information to consumers so they can make educated choices about the products they buy.
No other elements of interest were detected.
We Prefer:
We like silicone toys, although very trace levels of cadmium are sometimes detected using XRF. We don’t typically have a personal concern for trace cadmium in products unless children are eating the silicone. In our opinion, silicone popping products are a fun option that help young children focus. If trace levels of cadmium are a concern to you, you may wish to use plastic toys rather than silicone, although we avoid products made from PVC for other reasons.
Similar Products:
Disclosure: These are Amazon affiliate links. By shopping for any item on Amazon starting with our links, you help support our business and testing.
The original item we tested above is available from Target here. Note that the examples posted are made of silicone and may test positive for trace cadmium with XRF.
Why we like it: Here is an example of a silicone popping toy.
Teacher Created Resources Push and Pop Bubble Ten Frame Math Fidget Sensory Toy (Pack of Six)
Why we like it: Here’s another variety set developed by teachers to help reinforce counting skills.
Pop It! Buffalo Games Star Wars: The Mandalorian – Grogu
Why we like it: If you’re a fan of the Star Wars franchise, this might be a decent option for kids.
These items have not always been personally tested by us but are likely to be lead free or low lead and/or cadmium based on our research into the materials, discussions with manufacturers, and/or testing on similar products. We recommend items we would use ourselves.
We provide our XRF testing for general educational or informational use only, to help consumers identify low lead and lead-free products. We disclaim any and all warranties, expressed or implied, and assume no duty or responsibility with respect to how any person or entity uses the information on this website.