Introduction
These labels adorn almost all baby-care product packaging. But what do they actually mean? Does a simple CE marking guarantee that a product is safe for your baby? This factual guide, based on the European regulations in force in 2026, provides clear answers.
1. The CE marking: mandatory, but self-declared
The CE marking is mandatory for toys and baby-care products on the European market. However, it is the manufacturer who declares that the product complies — with no mandatory independent third-party inspection for many categories.
CE does not guarantee testing by an independent laboratory. In 2025, France’s DGCCRF inspected more than 11,000 toys during its Christmas campaign — 32% had at least one non-compliance issue despite bearing the CE marking (source: DGCCRF, 2025).
CE alone is insufficient. It must be supplemented by certifications based on independent testing.
2. REACH: regulations on chemical substances
REACH Regulation (EC) No. 1907/2006 is the most comprehensive European regulatory framework for chemical substances. For baby products, it bans or restricts:
- Phthalates: limited to 0.1% by weight in baby-care products — ten times stricter than the general limit for toys (Entry 51, Annex XVII of REACH).
- Azo dyes in textile articles that come into contact with the skin.
- Organotin compounds and PAHs (polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons).
New in 2026: since January 1, 2026, Entry 77 of Annex XVII of REACH has extended the restriction on formaldehyde to all consumer goods. Play mats, cushions, and foam products are now covered.
3. EN71: the toy standard
EN 71-1: mechanical and physical properties (no sharp edges, no small parts for children under 3).
EN 71-2: flammability.
EN 71-3: migration of chemical elements (lead, cadmium, chromium).
For play mats considered toys, EN71 certification tested by an accredited laboratory is the minimum expected. Our Treelys baby play mat is EN71-certified by an independent organization: Treelys play mat
4. OEKO-TEX Standard 100: the most demanding standard for textiles and foams
Issued by the independent OEKO-TEX organization. It tests each individual component for more than 100 regulated substances, including substances that are not yet legally banned but are considered concerning. Class I applies to baby and infant products — the strictest criteria.
5. ASTM F963: the American standard
A recognized framework for independent testing that includes phthalates, mechanical properties, and soluble elements. Its presence on a product indicates an additional level of testing rigor.
6. BPA-free: what to actually check
Since January 20, 2025, Regulation (EU) 2024/3190 has banned BPA and certain bisphenols in food-contact materials. The transition period runs until July 20, 2026.
Warning: BPA-free does not mean bisphenol-free. Some manufacturers replace BPA with BPS or BPF — substitutes whose toxicity is still being studied. Only OEKO-TEX certification or an accredited test report covering all identified bisphenols can provide assurance.
7. How to read a product information sheet in 2026
Look for:
- CE certification + testing by a named independent laboratory (Intertek, Eurofins, Bureau Veritas, SGS)
- EN71 certification
- REACH statement with a reference to Annex XVII
- BPA-free and bisphenol-free, with a test report available
- Formaldehyde level < 75 mg/kg
- OEKO-TEX Standard 100 Class I for textiles and foams
Avoid:
- CE marking alone without independent testing
- “Free from harmful substances” claims without reference to a specific standard
- Unrecognized certifications or certifications invented by the brand
All our Treelys products are tested by accredited independent laboratories — play mat: Treelys play mat, 3-in-1 baby potty: 3-in-1 adjustable baby potty, freestanding folding bathtub: freestanding folding bathtub.
Conclusion
CE alone is insufficient. REACH, EN71, and OEKO-TEX, supported by documented independent testing, form the most reliable trio for assessing the actual safety of a baby-care product. If in doubt, visit RappelConso.gouv.fr.
