Magnets and small parts: a safety guide for fidget products

Some fidget products contain magnets, fasteners or other small components. These features require sensible handling and secure storage. Always read the age guidance, warnings and instructions on the exact product page and packaging before use.

Keep magnets and small parts out of the mouth

Never put the product, a magnet or a detached component in the mouth. Swallowed magnets can cause serious internal injury, especially if more than one magnet is swallowed or a magnet is swallowed with another metal object. The UK Office for Product Safety and Standards says to act fast and get immediate medical treatment if swallowing is suspected; read its small high-powered magnets safety alert.

Keep the product away from young children and from anyone likely to swallow or insert a small part. Age guidance is not a substitute for checking the individual user and supervising where appropriate.

Inspect the product before each use

  1. Check that every visible magnet remains fully enclosed.
  2. Look for cracks, gaps, loose screws, separated layers and sharp damage.
  3. Confirm that moving sections remain attached and sit as shown in the listing.
  4. Stop using the product immediately if a part is loose or missing.

Place any detached part in a secure container, out of reach of children. Do not continue using an incomplete product, and do not rely on a temporary repair that is not part of the supplied instructions.

Consider devices and nearby objects

Fixed magnets can affect some implanted or body-worn medical devices, cards, watches, storage media and other equipment. The UK government publishes guidance on fixed magnets and active medical devices. Follow the instructions for the exact device or equipment, including its specified separation distance; do not apply a distance quoted for a different product. If you are unsure whether a magnetic product is suitable near a device, obtain advice from the device provider before use.

Choose a safe place to use it

Use the product over a clear surface where a detached component can be found. Keep it away from food preparation, pets, cots, play areas for young children and places where parts could fall into a drain or gap. Do not throw the product or use it in a way that places moving metal parts near another person.

Store and transport it securely

After use, account for all parts and store the item in a closed place that children cannot access. Do not carry a loose magnetic product beside objects identified by their maker as magnet-sensitive. Before using it after travel or a drop, inspect it again.

Check the exact product, not just the category

Category names do not confirm a product’s construction. Start with the Magnetic Sliders, Spinners or Clickers collection, but always open the individual listing and read its current description, images and warnings.

Selected product pages to compare:

Selected product pages to compare:

Selected product pages to compare:

If a product becomes damaged

Stop using it, gather every component without handling sharp edges directly, and secure the pieces. Keep damaged magnets and small parts away from children. Contact the retailer with the product name, order details and a clear description of the damage so the specific case can be reviewed.

Back to blog

Leave a comment

Please note, comments need to be approved before they are published.