The global toy market is $129.45 billion in 2020 and is projected to reach $230.64 billion by 2028. The reason for this growth is simple: kids love toys. But as any parent knows, not all toys are created equal. Some are built to last, while others seem to fall apart at the slightest provocation. So how do you make a toy that will stand up to hours (and hours) of abuse? You could try using tougher materials, but that can be expensive. And it’s not always possible to predict how a child will interact with a toy. Here are some tips to help you make a toy that will withstand the rigors of playtime:
Use Plastic Molding
Plastic molding is a process that can be used to create a wide variety of products, including toys. The process begins with the creation of a negative mold, which is typically made from metal. This mold is then filled with molten plastic, which takes on the shape of the mold as it cools. Once the plastic has hardened, the mold is removed, and the toy is ready for play.
Plastic molding offers advantages over other manufacturing methods, including its high level of accuracy and its ability to produce complex shapes. This means that you can use custom plastic molding shapes to manufacture custom toys that can entertain the kids. In addition, plastic molded toys are extremely durable, making them ideal for active children.
Design for Durability
Designing for durability is a critical component of high-quality manufacturing toys. Durability means the toy can withstand repeated use and misuse without breaking or suffering excessive wear and tear.
To design for durability, manufacturers must consider the materials used, the toy’s construction, and the intended use. For example, a toy designed for indoor use can withstand repeated drops onto hard surfaces, whereas a toy designed for outdoor use can withstand UV exposure and moisture.
Avoid Sharp Edges
To manufacture a highly durable toy, it is essential to avoid sharp edges. Even a small sharp edge can cause big problems, as it can easily catch on clothing or skin, leading to cuts or snags.
In addition, sharp edges are more likely to break or chip, creating dangerous sharp points. Instead, toys should have smooth, rounded edges that are safe for kids to play with. This will help to ensure that the toy can withstand rough play without breaking or becoming a safety hazard.
Test, Test, Test
The material selection is crucial in manufacturing to make a toy that is safe for children and highly durable. A few tests can be performed during manufacturing to ensure the toy’s durability.
The first is a drop test. The toy is dropped from a specified height onto a flat surface to test for any cracking or breaking. The second test is the tension test. This test puts tension on different parts of the toy to see how much force it can take before breaking. The third and final test is the compression test. This test assesses how much weight the toy can handle before being damaged.
Inspect Every Toy
Parents always want what’s best for their children, including ensuring they play with safe, high-quality toys. Manufacturers need to inspect every toy before it leaves the factory. By doing so, they can ensure that each toy is durable and free of any defects.
Doing this inspection process can be time-consuming and expensive, but it’s worth it to ensure that every child playing with the toy is safe. In addition to safety, inspecting toys also help to ensure that they will last for a long time. This is especially important for parents who want their children to be able to enjoy their toys for many years to come.
Be Prepared for Returns
Returns are a normal part of any manufacturing business. But when it comes to toys, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure the process goes smoothly. First, check with the retailer to see if they have a return policy. This will help you determine how to handle the product and whether you will be able to resell it.
Second, inspect the product carefully before returning it. This will help you identify any problems that may have caused the return. Finally, be prepared to repackage the product if necessary. This will ensure that it arrives at the manufacturer in the same condition as when it left.
There are a few key things to keep in mind when manufacturing toys to ensure they are durable and safe for children. First, avoid sharp edges, which can cause cuts or snags. Second, test the toy’s durability before it leaves the factory. And finally, be prepared for returns by inspecting the product carefully and repackaging if necessary.
