Noisy Toys

How Loud Is Too Loud?

Children like toys that make noise–toy sirens, squeaky toys, and musical instruments with built-in speakers. Children often hold toys right up to their ears, and what might be a 90-decibel (dB) sound at arm’s length can reach 120 dB when held at the ear. This noise can be painful and cause hearing loss.

According to the World Health Organization, children should not be exposed to sound levels above 75 dB for extended periods of time. Some toys can produce sounds as loud as 85 dB.

Protecting Young Ears: What Parents Can Do

Choose toys carefully. Before buying a new toy, listen to it. If it sounds too loud to you, don’t buy it.

If you have toys at home that make noise, consider the following tips:

• Check the noise level using a sound level meter application, which you can download to your smartphone.
• Set the volume of the toy to a lower setting if possible.
• Remove the batteries to turn off the noise-making features.
• Discard the toy.

If you're concerned about your child’s hearing, consult an audiologist for hearing testing.

To find an audiologist near you, visit ProFind.

Resources

Inclusion on this list does not imply endorsement.

• WHO-ITU Global Standard on Safe Listening: Devices and Systems