Quick answer: Since 1 January 2021, the Toys (Quality Control) Order, 2020 requires toys meant for children under 14 that are sold in India to conform to Indian Standards — mainly IS 9873 for toy safety and IS 15644 for electric toys — and to carry the BIS standard mark (ISI mark) with a licence (CM/L) number. It applies to Indian-made and imported toys, and to everyone in the chain: manufacturers, importers, distributors, online marketplaces and retailers.
If you run a toy shop, sell online or simply buy toys for your children, the BIS mark is the first thing to look for. This guide explains the rules in simple language, what the label should show, which standards matter for soft toys, and what retailers should keep on record. It is general information, not legal advice — for your specific case, check the latest notifications on the official Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) website.
What is the Toys (Quality Control) Order?
The Toys (Quality Control) Order, 2020 was notified by the Government of India and came into force on 1 January 2021. It covers toys and products designed or clearly intended for play by children under 14 years of age. Such toys must meet the listed Indian Standards and carry the BIS Standard Mark under a licence from BIS. Toys that do not comply should not be manufactured, imported, sold, stored or displayed for sale.
Which standards apply to soft toys?
| Standard | What it covers | Relevant to |
|---|---|---|
| IS 9873 (Part 1) | Mechanical and physical properties — small parts, seams, sharp points, stuffing access | All soft toys |
| IS 9873 (Part 2) | Flammability | All soft toys |
| IS 9873 (Part 3) | Migration of certain elements (heavy metals) | Fabrics, paints, plastic parts |
| IS 9873 (Part 9) | Certain phthalate esters | Plastic and PVC parts |
| IS 15644 | Safety of electric toys | Musical, breathing and light-up plush |
Other parts of IS 9873 cover items like swings, slides, finger paints and chemistry sets, which don’t apply to plush toys.
Updates to watch
BIS has published revised versions of IS 9873 Part 1 and Part 2 (2025 editions). Industry reports indicate a transition period during which existing licences must move to the revised standard by March 2027. If you are a manufacturer or importer, confirm the exact deadlines with BIS or your testing lab. If you are a retailer, ask your supplier whether their licence covers the current standard.
What to check on the label
- The BIS Standard Mark (ISI mark) on the toy or its packaging
- The licence number (CM/L number) printed near the mark
- The Indian Standard number, for example IS 9873
- Age grading, such as “Not suitable for children under 3 years”
- Manufacturer or importer name and address
- Brand name and model or type of toy
The marking should be clear, durable and easy to read on the toy or its primary packaging.
Why it matters for soft toys
Soft toys look harmless, but small parts such as plastic eyes, noses or buttons can be a choking risk if they come loose, weak seams can let stuffing out, and poor-quality fabric or dyes can be unsafe. Standards like IS 9873 test seam strength, small parts and materials so that a toy is safer for normal play — and for the rough play children really do. For electric toys, IS 15644 also looks at batteries, heating and electrical safety.
What retailers and online sellers should do
- Buy from suppliers who can share BIS details — licence number and the standard covered — for the toys you buy.
- Keep records. Save the supplier invoice and a copy of the licence details with your purchase file.
- Check every new design. Look at the label on the first carton before putting stock on the shelf.
- Be ready for marketplace checks. Platforms may ask for compliance details when you list toys.
- Remove doubtful stock. If a toy has no mark or the details look wrong, don’t sell it until it is clarified.
Our guides on buying soft toys wholesale and sourcing for online selling explain how to include these checks in your buying process.
What parents should check
As a parent, you don’t need to understand the standards in detail. Look for the ISI mark and licence number, read the age grading, and do a quick physical check at home:
- Pull gently on eyes, nose and accessories — nothing should feel loose.
- Check seams for gaps where filling could come out.
- Avoid long ribbons or cords on toys for babies and toddlers.
- For electric toys, make sure the battery compartment closes with a screw.
- Smell the toy — a strong chemical smell is a warning sign.
For age-wise advice, read how to choose safe soft toys by age. Retailers can use the 10-point quality checklist for bulk orders.
Common myths about the BIS mark
- “Soft toys are not covered because they have no sharp parts.” Wrong — plush toys for children under 14 are covered, and small parts and seams are exactly what the tests check.
- “A CE or other foreign mark is enough.” Toys sold in India need the BIS mark under the Indian order, whatever other marks they carry.
- “Only the importer needs to worry.” Sellers and online stores are also expected to sell compliant toys.
How to verify a BIS licence
BIS provides licence search on its official website and through the BIS Care app. Enter the CM/L number from the label to see the licence holder, the product and the standard. If the details don’t match the toy or the brand, ask your supplier for clarification.
Frequently asked questions
Do imported toys also need the BIS mark?
Yes. The order applies to toys sold in India, whether made in India or imported.
Do electric soft toys need a different standard?
Electric toys must meet IS 15644 in addition to the general toy safety requirements.
Does the rule apply to retailers, or only manufacturers?
It applies across the chain — including those who sell, store or display toys for sale.
Where can I verify a BIS licence?
On the official BIS website and the BIS Care app, using the CM/L number on the label.
Is this legal advice?
No. This is general information. Check the latest BIS notifications or consult an expert for your specific case.
Lisbon Toys supplies BIS-certified soft toys to families and businesses across India. Ask for wholesale prices or shop online.
