The Works speaks out after squishy toys safety fears raised

The Works has reassured customers following reports of squishy toys being removed from sale <i>(Image: Google Maps)</i>
The Works has reassured customers following reports of squishy toys being removed from sale (Image: Google Maps)
This article is brought to you by our exclusive subscriber partnership with our sister title USA Today, and has been written by our American colleagues. It does not necessarily reflect the view of The Herald.

A high street retailer has reassured customers and shared some advice for those who have children's “squishy toys” at home, following reports of some “being removed from sale due to safety concerns”.

The Works, which has more than 500 stores across the UK, said it was “aware” of the issue and wanted to “reassure” its customers that its products adhere to safety regulations.

Posting to its Instagram stories, it shared a notice titled ‘squishy toys’, which said: “We’re aware of recent reports about some squishy toys being removed from sale due to safety concerns, and we’d like to reassure you that all of our products are fully tested to meet UK and EU safety regulations.”

It said it would encourage anyone to avoid heating or microwaving squishy toys and “overstretching, throwing or biting them” as they may get damaged.

The Works added: “Check regularly and stop using if the toy becomes damaged or starts to leak”.

The retailer also reassured customers that bad smells are “quite normal” when it comes to unpacking a squishy toy.


UK high street shops that no longer exist


It said: “We understand that some squishy toys may have a slight smell when first opened, especially if they’ve been in sealed packaging.

“This is quite normal and should fade after a short time once the product has been aired.


Recommended reading:


“We would encourage you to look for CE/UKCA legal compliance markings when purchasing toys, as well as safety labelling to advise on safe use of the products.”

Customers can contact the customer experience team and ask any questions or raise concerns.

The Works is a popular chain known for selling a variety of craft supplies, books and children’s toys.

Have you bought a squishy toy recently? Let us know in the comments below.

Get involved
with the news

Send your news & photos