Once upon a time, toys were built from wood, metal, fabric, wool and other natural materials that aged gracefully and could be repaired or passed on.
Fast-forward to today, and many parents are understandably concerned about the environmental impact of plastic toys, especially those that break easily or fall out of favour long before January.
If you’re hoping to shop more sustainably this season, there’s good news: there are now more non-plastic toy options than ever.
From handcrafted wooden playsets to metal balance bikes and fabric dolls, you can fill your stockings without filling landfill.
And if you need convincing that plastic toys really do linger far longer than childhood itself, here’s a rather telling story…
The Plastic Toys That Wouldn’t Die
A friend recently shared an extraordinary anecdote from his own family home. While digging over the back garden, soil that hadn’t been disturbed for decades, he unearthed several old toys he’d played with as a child.
They’d been buried under the earth for years, yet the plastic hadn’t rotted or broken down at all. They looked almost exactly as they had when they’d first been thrown, lost or abandoned there all those years ago.
It’s a vivid reminder that while our children grow up, the toys of their childhood do not. They often outlive the children who once adored them, and sometimes even the houses they were played in.
Why Choose Non-Plastic Toys This Christmas?
1. Better for the Planet
Natural materials such as wood, cotton, wool and metal biodegrade or can be recycled far more easily. Choosing them means reducing the long-term environmental footprint of your festive gifts.
2. Longer-Lasting and Repairable
Wooden and metal toys don’t crack or split as easily as plastic. They can be sanded, tightened, repaired and kept in the family for future generations.
3. Safer for Curious Little Ones
Many parents prefer to avoid plastics that may contain chemicals or additives. Natural materials offer peace of mind for babies and toddlers who love exploring with their mouths.
4. Timeless Charm
There’s something magical about a beautifully made wooden train set or a hand-stitched soft toy. They look lovely under the Christmas tree and often become keepsakes.
5. Support Small Makers and Local Craftspeople
Many non-plastic toys are produced by small UK businesses, woodworkers, crafters and independent shops. Choosing these gifts supports local creativity and craftsmanship.
Ideas for Non-Plastic Toys and Gifts
Wooden building blocks, jigsaw puzzles or construction kits
Perfect for toddlers right through to early teens.
Metal balance bikes, scooters or die-cast vehicles
Tough, practical and often repairable.
Fabric dolls, puppets and soft toys
With the added bonus of machine-washable bodies and clothes.
Natural craft kits
Beeswax modelling sets, wool felting kits, pottery-for-beginners and candle-making sets are hugely popular.
Classic board games made from cardboard and wood
A brilliant way to bring the family together on Christmas night.
Musical instruments
Think wooden percussion kits, recorders, ukuleles and hand drums.
A More Meaningful Christmas Morning
Choosing non-plastic toys doesn’t mean spending more or compromising on fun. In fact, these gifts often spark imagination, last far longer and feel more meaningful, especially when little ones know that Father Christmas has delivered something special they can treasure for years.
With a little mindful shopping, your Christmas can be magical, memorable and more eco-friendly.
And with any luck, nothing you buy this year will still be lurking in someone’s back garden a generation from now.