Parents and gift-buyers urged to be cautious following seizure of unsafe toys
Redcar and Cleveland trading standards officers are urging parents and shoppers to be on high alert after counterfeit versions of a popular children’s toy were found to pose a serious safety risk.
The warning follows the discovery of fake Labubu toys in Redcar & Cleveland and other parts of the UK.
The toys, part of a sought-after collectible series, were found to contain small, loose parts that could cause choking in young children.
They also lacked the legally required safety labelling, including the name and address of a UK supplier.
The Council’s Trading Standards team is reminding residents to check toys carefully, especially when buying online or from local retailers.
The Trading Standards Team said:
“These counterfeit toys can seem like a bargain, particularly when they’re part of a highly collectable range, but they can be extremely dangerous—especially for young children.
We want to make sure families across Redcar and Cleveland have the information they need to stay safe. If you’re in any doubt about the toys you’ve bought, our Trading Standards team is here to help.”
Labubu toys are part of a range of designer “monster elf” figures created by artist Kasing Lung and sold by Chinese retailer Pop Mart.
The counterfeit versions currently in circulation are being sold without proper safety testing and are unlikely to meet UK product safety regulations.
Residents are advised to follow this guidance when purchasing toys:
- Check for proper labelling: Look for a CE or UKCA mark and make sure the packaging includes the name and address of a UK based supplier
- Buy from trusted retailers: Stick to reputable shops and websites—it’s easier to return items if there’s a problem.
- Be wary of prices that seem too good to be true: If a toy is being sold well below the usual price, it may not be genuine.
Anyone with concerns about the safety of toys they’ve purchased can contact the Citizens Advice consumer helpline on 0808 223 1133 or visit www.citizensadvice.org.uk/consumer.
Businesses in Redcar and Cleveland seeking advice can contact the local Trading Standards team by emailing tradingstandards@redcar-cleveland.gov.uk.