On 11 June 2025 the European Committee for Standardization (CEN) formally published the revised toy safety standard EN 71-2:2020+A1:2025, comprehensively upgrading flammability safety requirements for toys and childcare articles. The standard takes effect on 31 December 2025 and applies to toy manufacturers, importers, distributors and supply chain companies in the EU and the European Economic Area.

Main updates

1. New product definitions. Cosmetic set toys, taste-based play toys and olfactory board games are explicitly covered, filling gaps in the previous standard.

2. Technical adjustments.

Chemical toys: requirements for flammable liquids are tightened and aligned with EN 71-5 for experimental toys and EN 71-13 for olfactory toys.

Test methods:

- the mask burning test is revised so that the flame is not disturbed by openings;

- the way fabric test specimens are positioned is harmonised;

- the permitted range of water hardness in the washing test is widened for better practicality.

3. Stronger risk assessment. New guidance on burning risks for toy costumes and head-worn toys requires companies to assess potential hazards.

4. Annex revisions. Washing instructions are updated, figure text corrected and the rationale for the water hardness change explained in detail.

Implementation timetable

By the end of December 2025: EU member states must complete national transposition and withdraw conflicting rules.

By the end of June 2026: the new version fully replaces EN 71-2:2020.

Once approved by the European Commission, the standard is expected to apply as a harmonised standard under the Toy Safety Directive 2009/48/EC. Companies should review product design, material selection and test processes as soon as possible to ensure compliance and avoid market access risk.