This post may contain affiliate links. By browsing this website, you agree to our disclaimer, privacy policy, and terms of use.

This guide to non-toxic pool toys is perfect for parents looking to keep summer fun and colorful without the harmful chemicals that can leach into water or be absorbed during everyday play.

Close your eyes and picture the perfect summer day. The sun is shining, the birds are chirping, and your children’s laughter echoes through the backyard as they splash in the pool. 

Colorful floats and toys bob on the water’s surface, the scent of sunscreen mingles with the smell of freshly cut grass, and all feels right in the world.

Text reading "can you actually find pool toys that are PVC-free, 15 PCV-free pool toys that prove it", showcasing a collage of PVC-free pool toys.

But then, as you watch your little ones gleefully chewing on their favorite pool noodle, a thought crosses your mind: “What exactly is this toy made of? Is it really safe for my child to put in their mouth?”

This question hit home for me last summer when I noticed a particularly strong chemical odor wafting from our collection of pool toys after they had been baking in the hot summer sun. 

Best Non-Toxic Pool Toys, in a nutshell…

As any health-conscious parent would, I’d done my due diligence in choosing BPA-free water bottles and organic snacks, but I’d never really stopped to think about what our brightly-colored floaties and diving rings might be made out of.

A quick internet search revealed some not-so-great news about our favorite pool toys– many classic pool toys are made with some of the most toxic plastics on the market.

A 2021 study by the Technical University of Denmark analyzed 419 chemicals found in plastic toys and discovered that 126 of them could potentially harm children’s health.

So I had to dig deeper. I spent weeks researching the safest pool toy options, poring over scientific studies, and testing products. With everything I learned, I knew I had to share it with health-conscious parents like you.

In this article, I’ve included:

So grab your non-toxic sunscreen and let’s dive into non-toxic pool toys for a safer summer! 

What toxic chemicals are hiding in pool toys?

Many conventional pool toys are made with toxic chemicals that can pose serious health risks—especially to young children whose developing bodies are more vulnerable to chemical exposure. 

And it’s not just what’s in the toy that matters, it’s how your child interacts with it.

Let’s take a closer look at the usual suspects:

  • PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride): Often called the “poison plastic,” PVC is loaded with toxic chemical additives like phthalates, lead, and cadmium. It can leach harmful substances when exposed to heat, water, or saliva—making it especially risky for pool toys that get chewed on or left in the sun.
  • Phthalates: Used to make plastic flexible, but they come with a hefty price: they’re known endocrine disruptors linked to hormone imbalances, fertility issues, and even certain cancers. When pool toys made with phthalates sit in hot water or are handled frequently, they can release these chemicals into the environment and directly into your child’s hands or mouth.
  • BPA & Its Cousins (Like BPS & BPF): BPA is often used to harden plastics, but even “BPA-free” toys aren’t always safe. Many manufacturers replace it with similar chemicals like BPS or BPF, which may carry the same hormone-disrupting risks. These compounds can migrate into water and be absorbed through skin or ingested during play.
  • Lead & Cadmium: These heavy metals are sometimes used to stabilize plastics, particularly in cheaper PVC-based toys. They’re also potent neurotoxins, meaning they can interfere with brain development, learning, and behavior—especially during early childhood.

Why Pool Toys Are Extra Worrisome

Simple. Pool toys get wet, hot, and chewed on. That combination speeds up the breakdown of materials and increases the chances of toxins leaching out.

Children are especially vulnerable because of their fast metabolism, thinner skin, and constant hand-to-mouth behavior. Add in heat from the sun and chemicals like chlorine, and you’ve got the perfect storm for harmful exposure.

Toxic pool toys are bad for our environment too

And the concern doesn’t stop at the water’s edge. As these toys degrade, they shed microplastics and toxic residues into the environment—polluting waterways and threatening marine life. PVC can take up to 1,000 years to decompose.

What makes a pool toy truly non-toxic? 

  • Natural Materials: Think 100% natural rubber, bamboo, and sustainably-sourced wood. These options are biodegradable, renewable, and free from synthetic chemicals.
  • Food-Grade Silicone: This non-toxic, hypoallergenic material is soft, durable, and safe for chewing. Look for 100% food-grade or medical-grade silicone.
  • “Better” Plastics: While no plastic is perfect, some options like ABS, HDPE, and polypropylene are safer than PVC and less likely to contain harmful additives. Though I still recommend avoiding these plastics when possible.
  • Bioplastics: Made from renewable resources like sugarcane or wheat straw, these plant-based plastics are a step up from petroleum-based varieties.
  • PVC-Free Options: When natural materials and safer plastics aren’t available, look for pool toys labeled as PVC-free, phthalate-free, and BPA-free. These are still a better choice than toys made with traditional PVC.

Of course, in the real world, it’s not always possible to find pool toys that check all the non-toxic boxes. 

Sometimes, the “better” option is the best you can do – and that’s okay! Even small changes, like choosing phthalate-free PVC over regular PVC, can make a difference.

The Best Non-Toxic Pool Toys for Safe Summer Fun in 2025

The Hape Grabber is the ultimate outdoor play companion for toddlers aged 2 and up, and it’s just as fun at the pool as it is at the beach or in the garden. 

With its easy-to-use squeeze handle, kids can practice grasping and grabbing to build finger strength and fine motor skills—all while having a blast in the water!

At the pool, little ones can use the Grabber to scoop up floating toys, catch water creatures in imaginative play, or even invent their own splashy games with friends.

Its smooth, rounded design is gentle on small hands, and the high-quality, BPA-, PVC-, and phthalate-free plastic makes it safe for endless splashing sessions.

Whether they’re pretending to be underwater treasure hunters or helping “clean up” the pool, the Hape Grabber turns every splash into an adventure.

Add it to your pool bag for screen-free fun that sparks creativity and encourages hands-on, active play!

Price

$17.99

Notable Features

Made from high-quality plastic, free from BPA, PVC & phthalate, suited for toddlers ages 2+

location/shipping

Germany, ships to the United States & select international countries

Searching for water wings made without PVC or EVA foam was very difficult! But Sunnylife Kids has done it! 

These Kids Floaties are made from sustainable natural rubber and foam to provide all of the buoyancy your little swimmer needs without relying on toxic materials.​

Designed to support children up to 66 pounds, they help develop swimming abilities while building water confidence. 

The adjustable strap ensures a secure and customized fit as your child grows.​

Price

$30

Notable Features

Made from sustainable natural rubber & foam for buoyancy, PVC-free, adjustable strap

location/shipping

Australia, ships to the United States

green alternatives to plastic pool toys

Use discount code TFC15 to save 15%!

Get ready for a summer full of laughter, splashes, and guilt-free fun with Soppycid Reusable Water Balloons!

These innovative water balloons are made from soft, high-quality silicone that’s completely safe, gentle on skin, and non-toxic, making them perfect for kids of all ages.

With a durable design built to last through up to 1000 uses, you can say goodbye to single-use plastic waste while enjoying eco-friendly water play again and again.

Thanks to their strong magnetic closure and multi-layer testing, these balloons are easy to refill and seal in seconds – no messy ties, no tiny plastic pieces left behind.

Whether you’re hosting a backyard water fight, a birthday bash, or just cooling off in the pool, Soppycid balloons make every splash safe, fun, and sustainable.

Price

$19.99 (4-Pieces) | $75.99 (24-Pieces)

Notable Features

Made of high-quality silicone, up to 1000 reuse times, reduces single-use plastic waste

Location/Shipping

United States, ships to select international countries 

The Step2 Play & Shade Pool™ is a toddler-friendly water activity center that turns your outdoor space into the ultimate poolside oasis for little ones!

Made from food-safe, non-toxic HDPE (free from PVC, BPA, and phthalates), it’s a standout pick for parents looking for safer, non-toxic pool toys and summer play essentials.

With molded-in floor traction, room for multiple kids, and two built-in seats (each holds up to 50 lbs), it’s perfect for splashing, cooling off, and building water confidence.

The 40” umbrella provides shade, while the included funnel cups and spinning water wheel add sensory fun.

From cause-and-effect learning to social skill-building, this pick proves non-toxic toys can be both fun and educational.

Price

$99.99

Notable Features

Made from non-toxic HDPE (free from PVC, BPA & phthalates), made in the USA, suited for toddlers ages 2+

location/shipping

United States, ships to Canada

Moonkie’s Personalizable Silicone Beach Toy Set turns summer fun into a custom experience.

Each set includes a bucket, shovel, and ocean-inspired molds made from soft, flexible silicone.

Parents can personalize the toys with a child’s name or initials—perfect for gifts or keeping track at playdates.

The smooth, non-toxic silicone is free from BPA and phthalates and built for both water and sand.

With bold colors and playful shapes, Moonkie encourages tactile exploration and creativity.

It’s a modern twist on classic beach toys with a thoughtful, personal touch.

Price

$54.99 for the STANDARD Edition | $64.99 for the LUXE Edition

Notable Features

Made from 100% food grade platinum silicone, free from BPA, BPS & PVC, dishwasher safe, durable, foldable & travel-friendly, personalizable

location/shipping

United States, ships to the United Kingdom, Ireland, Italy & Greece

Make a splash this summer with the Sunnylife x Ripcurl Dive Buddies – the ultimate water play companions for kids! 

This set of three adorable dive toys is designed to boost underwater confidence and help children develop their diving skills in a fun, engaging way. 

Made from sustainable natural rubber, sand, and polyester, these eco-friendly toys gently sink to the bottom of the pool, encouraging kids to dive down and retrieve them. 

Not only does this strengthen swimming ability and coordination, but it also makes learning to swim feel like an exciting game.

Perfect for little hands and big imaginations, the Dive Buddies are a must-have for pool days, beach outings, and backyard splash sessions.

With their cute design and skill-building benefits, they’re the perfect blend of play and purpose.

Price

$18 (Set of 3)

Notable Features

Made from natural rubber, sand, polyester, develops children’s diving skills

location/shipping

Australia, ships to the United States

The Green Toys Submarine is the perfect companion for curious little explorers who care about the planet!

Designed for both fun and sustainability, this sturdy watercraft is made from 100% recycled plastic, helping to save energy and reduce greenhouse gas emissions with every splash.

Whether your little one is navigating the deep sea (aka the pool) or scanning the horizon for their next eco-mission, this toy is packed with thoughtful features: a spinning rear propeller, a flat bottom for stability, and a classic handle and wide-mouth opening for endless scoop-and-pour fun.

The cabin opens for easy cleaning, and the entire submarine is dishwasher safe, making cleanup a breeze.

Free from BPA, phthalates, and PVC, and meeting FDA food contact standards, the Green Toys Submarine is as safe as it is sustainable.

Perfect for water play, imaginative journeys, and teaching kids that protecting our planet can start in the pool.

Price

$17.99

Notable Features

Made from 100% recycled plastic, free from BPA, PVC & phthalates, dishwasher-safe

location/shipping

United States

Dive into a world of underwater magic with Petites Pommes Hans Swim Goggles!

Designed for little adventurers aged 3-8, these swim goggles combine safety, comfort, and style in one fabulous package. 

Tired of stinging, dry eyes after pool or beach days? The Hans goggles are here to save the day with their lightweight silicone material, providing a snug yet gentle fit that keeps chlorinated or salty water out.

The retro-inspired design is as cool as it gets, and the wide, anti-fog lens offers a crystal-clear view of all the wonders beneath the surface. 

Say goodbye to hair-pulling mishaps, thanks to the practical buckle and adjustable straps that ensure a perfect fit every time.

Plus, they come with a matching cotton pouch for easy storage and style on the go.

Whether it’s for a sunny pool day or an ocean adventure, these goggles will keep your little one comfortable, protected, and ready to explore.

Price

$37

Notable Features

Made of lightweight silicone, anti-fog lens, straps for easy size adjusting, comes with matching cotton pouch

location/shipping

United States, ships worldwide

Turn bath time or pool time into an exciting underwater adventure with the Begin Again Water Pals

This playful 6-piece set includes a shark, octopus, sea turtle, crab, pufferfish, and diver—perfect for sparking imagination and endless water fun both in the tub and at the pool.

Crafted from 100% natural rubber and completely free from BPA and phthalates, these toys are a safe, non-toxic choice for kids of all ages.

Plus, they’re dishwasher safe with large openings for quick, easy cleaning—no mold, no mess!

Price

$24.99 (Set of 6)

Notable Features

Made from natural rubber, free from BPA & phthalates, dishwasher-safe,

location/shipping

United States

This Sail Boat from PlanToys is thoughtfully designed for eco-friendly adventures!

Perfect for bath time, ponds, oceans, and poolside fun, it’s a standout among non-toxic pool toys.

Made from innovative PlanWood—a sustainable material crafted from surplus sawdust and wood scraps—and featuring a natural rubber sail, it’s ready for water play anywhere your little ones explore.

Sustainably made in Thailand, each boat is built with chemical-free rubberwood, formaldehyde-free glue, organic pigments, and water-based dyes.

Durable, waterproof, and safe for curious hands, it’s the ultimate companion for nature-inspired splashing fun!

Price

$10

Notable Features

Made using chemical-free rubberwood, formaldehyde-free glue, organic pigments & water-based dyes

location/shipping

Sustainably made in Thailand, ships to the United States

Classical Child’s Silicone Bath Toy Boat Set brings nautical fun to the pool with its charming design.

The set includes a boat and accompanying accessories, all crafted from soft, durable silicone.

Free from BPA and phthalates, these toys ensure safe play for little ones.

The flexible, easy-to-clean material resists mold and mildew, making it perfect for water adventures.

With gentle colors and smooth textures, this set encourages imaginative play and sensory exploration. 

Whether in the pool or bathtub, Classical Child offers a delightful addition to water playtime.

Price

$19 (Set of 4)

Notable Features

Made from food-grade silicone, BPA & lead free, dishwasher-safe, suitable for ages 6M+

location/shipping

New Zealand, ships worldwide

Brave Justice Kids Co’s Silicone Educational Stacking Cups offer a playful way to introduce early learning concepts during pool time. 

This 10-piece set features cups adorned with numbers, shapes, and colors to engage young minds.​

Crafted from 100% platinum food-grade silicone, these cups are free from BPA, PVC, and phthalates, ensuring safe play.

Some cups have perforated bottoms, adding an extra element of fun for water play.​

The soft, durable material is gentle on little hands and mouths, promoting tactile exploration and fine motor skills. 

Whether stacking, sorting, or pouring, these cups make learning interactive and enjoyable.

Price

$16.99 (10-Pieces)

Notable Features

100% platinum food-grade soft silicone, mold-resistant, free from BPA, PVC & phthalates

location/shipping

United States

The Ring Lilo from Oliver James Lilos is a sophisticated, high-end pool float designed with adults in mind but perfect for the whole family. 

Made from custom jacquard woven Sunbrella® outdoor performance fabric, marine-grade trims, and a puncture-resistant TPU core, it’s safe for both chlorine and saltwater.

Unlike standard inflatables made from PVC — the “poison plastic” — The Ring Lilo is crafted without it, avoiding toxic impact from production to disposal.

Though on the pricier side, every detail is premium: UV- and fade-resistant, YKK vilson zippers, stainless steel eyelets, Tenara® thread, and a USB-rechargeable pump that inflates in under 80 seconds. 

Weighing under 4 kg, it’s durable, lightweight, and backed by a 1-year warranty and 15-day return policy.

Price

$750

Notable Features

1-year warranty, made from woven sunbrella solution dyed acrylic fabric, UV & fade resistant materials, portable USB rechargeable pump, PVC-free

location/shipping

Hong Kong, ships worldwide

How to Clean and Maintain Your Non-Toxic Pool Toys

Clean Gently (But Thoroughly):

  • Wash with mild, non-toxic dish soap and warm water—no harsh disinfectants needed.
  • Use white vinegar or hydrogen peroxide for a deeper, natural clean.
  • Skip chlorine bleach—it’s not necessary (and definitely not non-toxic).

Dry Naturally:

  • Let toys air-dry in direct sunlight. UV rays help kill bacteria naturally.
  • Bring them in once dry to avoid cracking or fading from sun exposure.

Store Smart:

  • Choose a cool, dry spot away from direct sun and extreme temps.
  • Use a mesh bag or open basket for airflow to prevent musty smells.
  • Rinse and dry toys after each use to keep mold and mildew at bay.

This has been your full guide to the best non-toxic pool toys for summer 2025. 

As we dive into another sun-soaked summer, I hope this guide has helped you feel more confident about choosing safer, non-toxic pool toys for your family. 

And remember, protecting your little ones doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag—progress over perfection is the name of the game.

Start small by swapping out the toys your kids use most, and keep an eye out for affordable, durable options from the brands featured here. Many offer bundles or sales that make it easier to stock up without overspending. 

And don’t underestimate the power of creativity, repurposing everyday items—like measuring cups—or using natural finds such as shells and driftwood can turn any splash session into a safe, sensory-rich adventure.

Check out our other amazing Non-Toxic Kids articles:

Like It? Pin It!

Text reading "15 best non-toxic pool toys for kids & adults, for safe summer fun for the whole family", showcasing non-toxic pool toys such as a ring lilo, mini pool, flippers and more.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Similar Posts