10 Toys That Were Pulled for Being Too Loud
These 10 toys were pulled from shelves after complaints and tests revealed they were dangerously loud for kids’ hearing.
- Sophia Zapanta
- 4 min read
Some toys crossed the line from fun to hazardous by producing sounds that could damage hearing, especially in young children. Consumer safety groups and parents raised concerns, leading to recalls and market withdrawals. This list looks at 10 toys that were considered too loud and had to be removed for health and safety reasons.
1. Fisher-Price Laugh & Learn Smart Phone
MIKI Yoshihito on Wikimedia Commons
This toy mimicked a real smartphone with lights, songs, and talking sounds. Parents complained that the volume was too high, even on the lowest setting. Tests found that the decibel level could exceed 85 dB, which is considered harmful after prolonged exposure. Fisher-Price responded by adjusting future versions and recommending limited playtime for the product.
2. Playskool Rocktivity Jump ‘N Jam Guitar
Variable on Wikimedia Commons
This toy guitar encouraged musical play but had no effective volume control. Reports noted sound levels exceeding 95 dB at close range when the instrument was strummed repeatedly. Children tended to hold the guitar close to their body and head while playing. After evaluations by watchdog groups, it was pulled from several retailers.
3. VTech Zoo Jamz Piano
DaveBleasdale on Wikimedia Commons
A small keyboard aimed at toddlers, it featured animal sounds, songs, and flashing lights. The speaker was placed near the top, where children often rested their heads while pressing keys. Tests by consumer groups found the volume could reach nearly 90 dB. It was eventually recalled for being too loud and distracting in school settings.
4. Tonka Bounce Back Racer
MIKI Yoshihito on Wikimedia Commons
This battery-powered vehicle flipped and bounced while making engine and crash sounds. The toy’s motor and sound effects were especially loud on hard surfaces. Decibel levels ranged from 88 to 92, depending on surface and proximity. Complaints led to its removal from stores and the release of a later version with sound limitations.
5. Sesame Street Let’s Rock Elmo
Baltimore County Public Library on Wikimedia Commons
This interactive plush toy sang songs and played instruments with the child. Elmo’s voice box, placed in the torso, was close to the child when hugged or held. Some units exceeded 85 dB when playing songs at full volume. After media coverage and parent feedback, it was quietly phased out.
6. Barbie Jam with Me Electronic Keyboard
Anthony Easton on Wikimedia Commons
This keyboard was marketed as a musical toy for young children. It came with a microphone and pre-recorded music tracks that played at a high volume. The toy lacked a reliable volume control setting, with sound levels often spiking. It was discontinued after safety advocates raised concerns.
7. Chuck E. Cheese Singing Plush Doll
Josh Grenier on Wikimedia Commons
Based on the popular restaurant mascot, this toy played birthday songs and catchphrases. Children often placed the doll close to their ears while hugging it. Peak sound levels exceeded 87 dB in lab tests. The manufacturer ceased production of the toy after receiving multiple complaints and poor reviews.
8. Kidz Delight Smooth Touch Smart Phone
Ilya Andrianov on Pexels
This pretend smartphone lit up and played various ringtones and games. Its speaker was located on the back, often placed directly against a child’s ear. Sound measurements showed levels over 90 dB with repeated use. It was removed from store shelves and later redesigned.
9. Marvel Avengers Iron Man Arc FX Armor
Wikideas1 on Wikimedia Commons
Designed for dress-up and role-play, this toy had light-up features and action sound effects. The speaker was located close to the child’s head, making loud sound effects more harmful. Complaints arose when children held the toy near their ear and experienced ringing. The toy was reviewed and later pulled due to combined concerns about volume and design.
10. Star Wars General Grievous Electronic Lightsaber
EMR on Wikimedia Commons
This toy lit up and made battle sounds when swung or activated. Kids naturally held the lightsaber close to their face during play. The battle sounds were measured as high as 93 dB in certain models. The item was pulled after a recall notice citing both loudness and durability issues.