14 Toys That Were Weirdly Dangerous — But We Loved Them
Some of the most beloved toys from the past were also some of the most dangerous, and we didn’t care.
- Sophia Zapanta
- 4 min read
Kids in the ’70s, ’80s, and ’90s grew up with toys that would never pass today’s safety standards. From metal edges to actual fire hazards, these products were wildly unsafe by design. However, they were popular, fun, and somehow made childhood feel more adventurous.
1. Lawn Darts
/dave/null on Wikimedia Commons
These were heavy metal darts meant to be thrown into the air to land in plastic rings on the ground. They were sold as outdoor games for families to enjoy. However, injuries were common, including serious head trauma. They were finally banned in the U.S. in 1988.
2. Creepy Crawlers
Berry Prince on Wikimedia Commons
The original toy let kids pour liquid plastic into metal molds, then bake them on a hot plate. The heating device reached over 300°F. Burns were a frequent issue. It was later redesigned with additional safety features.
3. Clackers
AntaraTV on Wikimedia Commons
Two acrylic balls on a string that you swung until they smashed together. If hit too hard, the balls could shatter into sharp pieces. Kids often got bruised hands or faces. They were eventually pulled off the shelves.
4. Easy-Bake Oven
Bradross63 on Wikimedia Commons
These ovens used real light bulbs to cook tiny cakes and snacks. The interior could get hot enough to burn fingers badly. Kids often reached in too soon and got hurt. Newer models use lower heat and are better sealed.
5. Snacktime Cabbage Patch Doll
Joe Mabel on Wikimedia Commons
This doll “ate” plastic snacks using motorized jaws. It didn’t stop if hair or fingers got caught. Multiple kids had their hair pulled out or their fingers trapped. Mattel recalled it in 1997.
6. Sky Dancers
Ethan Doyle White on Wikimedia Commons
These fairy dolls launched into the air by pulling a string. They often flew unpredictably into faces and eyes. Emergency rooms saw a spike in related injuries. The toy was recalled in 2000.
7. Chemistry Sets
Cristian Bortes on Wikimedia Commons
Older sets included glassware, alcohol burners, and real reactive substances. They were marketed as educational, but came with almost no safety warnings. Accidental fires, burns, and toxic fumes were not rare. They’ve since been heavily modified.
8. Battlestar Galactica Missile-Firing Ships
peterme on Wikimedia Commons
These toys shot tiny plastic missiles that kids could easily inhale. After a tragic choking death, Mattel recalled them. Later versions had the missiles glued in place. This changed how toy companies designed spring-loaded features.
9. Slip ’N Slide
Rob Swystun on Wikimedia Commons
This backyard toy was great for hot days but came with serious risks. It wasn’t meant for teens or adults, yet many used it anyway. Several people suffered neck and spine injuries. It’s still sold today, but with more warnings and age limits.
10. Atomic Energy Lab
Tiia Monto on Wikimedia Commons
Sold in the early ’50s, this science kit came with real uranium ore. It was intended to educate children about radiation. The set was quickly pulled from the market due to obvious health concerns. It’s now a collector’s item for its absurdity.
11. Mini Hammocks Without Spreader Bars
David Adam Kess on Wikimedia Commons
These were sold in the ’90s and marketed as backyard fun. Several children became entangled and suffocated due to the design. Over three million units were recalled, and new safety standards were created for children’s hammocks.
12. Cap Guns with Roll Caps
Nalbarian on Wikimedia Commons
These toy guns used small paper rolls with explosive powder to make a loud “bang.” Kids would sometimes set off entire rolls at once for fun. Burns and mini explosions weren’t unusual. They’re still around, but the design is safer and less intense now.
13. Jarts Jr.
Jasonbook99 on Wikimedia Commons
After the original Lawn Darts were banned, manufacturers attempted to reintroduce them with plastic versions. However, some still had weighted tips that could cause harm. The product faded out quietly after low sales. It never matched the original in popularity or danger.
14. BB Guns
Olaf Gradin on Wikimedia Commons
BB guns were sold in toy aisles and often given to kids as beginner “rifles.” They could break skin, chip teeth, and damage eyes. Safety gear was rarely used, and warnings were minimal. Parents eventually pushed for stricter sales rules and age limits.