By category
Toys are the category where a label error becomes a recall fastest, because the rules are specific and the enforcement is active.
The CE marking must be affixed to the toy, on a label or on the packaging, in a visible, legible and indelible manner. Behind it, there must be an EU declaration of conformity and a technical dossier.
Type, batch, serial or model number must identify the toy, together with the manufacturer’s name and address and the importer’s or responsible person’s details.
The 0-3 warning — a crossed-out face over the age range, with the reason for the restriction — is required for toys not suitable for children under three. The reason matters: ‘small parts’ is not optional decoration.
Other categories add their own prescribed wording: aquatic toys, functional toys, chemical sets, scooters and skates, projectile toys.
Warnings that influence the purchasing decision must be visible prior to purchase, including in online sales. A warning printed inside the box is not visible before purchase, and a marketplace listing must display it.
Artwork featuring the CE mark, the age warning with the correct pictogram proportions, the prescribed category wording, the identity and traceability blocks, and the entire set translated into the languages of the markets in which you sell.
The directive prescribes specific wording for several categories: aquatic toys, functional toys, chemical toys, activity toys, toys in food, scooters and skates, and imitations of protective masks. The wording is not optional.
Each warning must be preceded by the word ‘Warning’ and be visible, legible, accurate and understandable prior to purchase.
Where the warning influences the purchase — such as age restriction or supervision requirement — it must also appear in the online listing, not only on the packaging.
The pictogram displays a crossed-out face with the age range 0-3. Next to it, the reason must be specified: small parts, long cord, small ball, marble, etc. The reason explains to parents why the restriction exists, and is what inspectors verify.
The warning cannot be applied to a toy that is clearly intended for children under three as a way to circumvent stricter requirements. Authorities consider this misuse.
Type, batch, series or model number should be placed on the toy where possible; otherwise, on the packaging. For small toys sold in multipacks, the number identifies the batch, not the individual item.
| Block | Where | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| CE marking | Toy, label or packaging | Visible, legible, indelible |
| Manufacturer name and address | Toy or packaging | Registered name |
| Importer or responsible person | Toy or packaging | EU address |
| Type or batch number | On the toy where possible | Identifies the batch |
| Age warning and reason | Visible before purchase | Prescribed pictogram |
| Category warnings | Visible before purchase | Prescribed wording |
The same information, in the order an inspector or reviewer encounters it.
Yes, in the language or languages required by the member state, which is why we ship all 24.
It can be placed on the toy, on an affixed label or on the packaging, but it must be visible to the consumer.
It is not mandatory to print the standard, and printing it without the testing evidence is a false claim.
To lawfully affix the CE mark, you need evidence of conformity; test reports are the usual method.
Yes, if it is permanent and visible prior to purchase, including online.
Toys for collectors over fourteen are excluded if labelled as such, and that label is itself regulated.
Print-ready artwork for the markets you sell in, a permanent code with a public record, and a free reissue whenever your details change. Seven days free, no card.
EU Label Compliance