How to find cheap toys as prices set to rocket

We’ve heard plenty about how the war in Iran is set to drive up energy, food and fuel prices, but there’s another big expense to add to the list - children’s toys.

Many of your kid’s favourite toys will include materials like polyester and acrylic that are derived from petroleum, so oil supply issues could lead to them getting more expensive.

Soft toy manufacturer Aleni Brands has already found itself facing higher costs, as its Chinese suppliers said essential materials were costing them 10-15% more just three weeks into the war.

“I think this situation demonstrates how much oil permeates throughout our system,” said chief executive Ricardo Venegas.

“We can’t get away from it.”

“Who would have thought that the price of a toy would have a direct relationship with oil?”

What does this mean for parents?

Many toy manufacturers will be in a similar situation, and for now, they’ll be trying to absorb higher costs as much as they can.

But if the Middle East crisis continues, some may eventually have to start passing the cost on to consumers.

And that’s the last thing hard-pressed parents need at a time when other costs are going up too.

How can parents keep costs down when buying toys?

If you find it hard to afford toys for your children, there are options that mean they don’t have to go without.

Buy second-hand

You can find toys that are as good as new at knockdown prices if you look beyond the major retailers.

Platforms like eBay and Vinted will have all sorts of second-hand toys listed, maybe even some unwanted gifts that haven’t been opened and are still in their original packaging.

Look in your local charity shops for some bargains as well.

You’ll be surprised at how much you can get that’s within your budget.

Toy libraries

There are more than 1,000 toy libraries across the UK, where you can borrow toys like you’d borrow books at a regular library.

They’re often based in local facilities like a traditional library or community centre, so find out what’s available in your area.

Some also run ‘stay and play’ sessions, so kids can play together while parents chat and have a cup of tea.

Most will have small membership fees, but many offer free memberships for low-income families.

Toy-sharing subscriptions

Some national toy-sharing services let you swap toys by post for a monthly fee. 

Whirli, for example, has more than 1,000 toys to rent, swap and enjoy.

It still costs money, but it can work out cheaper than buying new toys all the time.

Look out for toy sales

If you have a small budget to spend, keep your eyes peeled for toy sales.

Even if your kid’s birthday is a few months away, it can be a good idea buying early while prices are low, so you can make your budget stretch a bit further.