Why rubberwood is the perfect material for durable toys
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Rubberwood is a natural material that naturally consists of latex and is used for various products, including toys. But is it safe for children?
In this article we discuss the advantages of rubber wood and what you should pay attention to when choosing toys made of this material.
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Discover the world of rubber wood toys
Rubberwood, also known as rubberwood or Hevea Brasiliensis, is a type of wood originating from the rubber tree. These trees are mainly used for the production of latex, but when they no longer produce latex after a number of years, they are cut down and given a second life as wood for toys, among other things.
Why is rubber wood so suitable for toys?
Rubberwood has a number of properties that make it very suitable for toys (many of these wooden toy brands use it). The wood is easy to work with and has a beautiful, light color. Moreover, it is a sustainable and ecologically sound material, because it comes from trees that have already been used for another purpose. This makes it a responsible choice for toys from babies from a few months old to children of a number of years.
Safety and workmanship of rubberwood toys
Rubber wood toys are not only durable, but also safe for your little one. The wood is often finished with a water-based stain or varnish, so that no harmful substances enter the toy. In addition, the corners and edges of the toys are often nicely rounded, so that your child cannot get hurt while playing.
Different types of rubber wood toys
There is a wide range of rubber wood toys, so you can always find something that suits your child. Some examples of rubber wood toys are:
- Blocks and stacking blocks: ideal for learning to build and recognize shapes.
- Shape Sorter: Helps develop fine motor skills and recognize shapes and colors.
- Rattle and teething ring: made of natural rubber and wood, perfect for babies from a few months old.
- Animals and vehicles: fun to play with and stimulate the imagination.
- Puzzles and games: good for developing cognitive skills and learning to work together.
The ecological benefits of rubberwood toys
Rubber wood comes from the rubber tree, which mainly grows in Asia. These trees are normally used for latex production, but after about 25 to 30 years, latex production decreases. Instead of letting the trees rot, they are cut down and used for the production of rubberwood products, such as toys. In this way, these trees are given a second life and the environment is treated in a responsible manner.
Which manufacturers choose rubber wood?
A well-known manufacturer that uses rubber wood for toys is Hape. This brand has an extensive range of rubber wooden toys, with a focus on stimulating children's creativity and motor skills. For example, think of blocks, puzzles and shapes that children can put together and develop their skills in a playful way.
Why are rubberwood toys so pleasant?
Rubberwood is naturally warm and soft to the touch, giving it a pleasant texture to play with. This makes the toy extra attractive for children. Moreover, rubber wood is easy to work with, so that all kinds of fun and creative shapes of toys can be made.
Why rubberwood excels as a material for toys
As a parent you naturally want the best for your child, and safety is paramount. Rubberwood is a great material for toys because it is naturally soft and splinter-free. Moreover, it is easy to work with, so there are no sharp edges or protrusions on the toy. This makes it ideal for small children's hands who like to touch everything and put everything in their mouth.
The choice for sustainability
Today, the environment is an important topic, and more and more parents are opting for sustainable products. Rubber wood is an ecologically sound material, because it comes from rubber trees that are at the end of their productive life. Instead of burning these trees, they are given a new life as toys. As a parent, you contribute to a better environment for the future of your child.
The popularity of rubber wood in toy brands
Rubberwood is widely used in toys today, and major brands such as Hape have embraced it as their main material. This ensures that a wide variety of toys are available, from blocks and puzzles to train tracks and dollhouses. As a result, there is something fun for every developmental stage of your child.
What to pay attention to when buying rubberwood toys
If you decide to buy rubberwood toys, there are a number of things you should pay attention to. Firstly, it is important to check that the toy meets safety standards. For example, look at the CE marking and read the specifications of the product. In addition, it is good to know that rubber wood naturally has a light odor. This fragrance is completely safe, but some children may be sensitive to it. Finally, it is wise to choose a reputable brand, such as Hape, which is known for its quality and durability.
The advantages of rubber wood at a glance
To make it clear, we list the advantages of rubber wood as a toy material:
- Safe and splinter-free
- Sustainable and environmentally friendly
- Versatile and suitable for various types of toys
- Popular with renowned toy brands
- Easy to maintain and clean
In short, rubber wood is an excellent choice if you are looking for safe, high-quality and durable toys for your child.
Conclusion
Is rubberwood good as a toy?
Rubberwood is a sustainable and ecological material that gets a second life as a toy. It is a good choice for children to stimulate their creativity and develop their motor skills. It is a safe choice because it is splinter-free and the edges are easy to round.
If you are looking for a new toy, the best place to try is rubber wood.
Always something to do for the holidays or rainy day?
Play Choice now has the ultimate activity book collection, with over 60 pages of fun coloring pages and educational puzzles.
Joost Nusselder, the founder of Speelkeuze.nl is a content marketer, father and loves trying out new toys. As a child he came into contact with everything related to games when his mother started the Tinnen Soldaat in Ede. Now he and his team create helpful blog articles to help loyal readers with fun play ideas.