With so many wild toys on the market, it's tricky to figure out which ones to go for, and which ones will bring years of regret.
Thankfully, we've been warned. While the Internet is often the place kids learn about ridiculous toys to add to their wishlists, it's also a place where parents can share their experiences and mistakes.
We've rounded up some of the worst toys parents have purchased for their wee ones, based on some scary reviews shared to social media.
Which toys to avoid at all costs this Christmas:
Fuggler Ugly Monster Soft Toys
Sure, it’s meant to be funny and ugly, but prepare for the nightmares. These weird little creatures have teeth that look suspiciously real.
One TikTok mum put a warning out to parents about the unusual find, revealing every doll she bought has an, ahem, butt hole.
“I don’t know about you guys, but I just find that kind of weird. Granted these are weird anyways…but why do they have a butt?”
Dancing and Singing Cactus
Catchy tunes are great… until you’ve heard the same one on loop for three hours straight. This cactus will bust out some moves, but the real trick is keeping your cool on the 50th replay.
This one also has a recording function that mimics what it hears. It’s all fun and games until it freaks out your toddler so much they have a full-blown meltdown... which then gets REPEATED and you can’t figure out how to stop it.
My Little Pets 'Little Live Walking Pig'
These battery-powered critters may be cute, but the 25+ sounds of a squealing pig walking around your place might wear thin real quick.
Makeup Sets
What starts as a fun playset for your little wee copycat, ends with lipstick smears and broken eyeshadows rubbed into the carpets - could you think of anything worse? - could you think of anything worse?
And let's not forget all the dolls and the family dog getting a makeover while you’re not looking.
Literally any Nerf Gun
A toy that turns your house into a battlefield, sweet! Expect foam darts in every corner of your house, under the couch, and hitting you in the face at the worst possible times.
Don’t be surprised if you find those bullets two years later.
Kinetic Sand
Just as messy, if not worse than the real thing, Kinetic Sand will end up EVERYWHERE! And let’s not talk about the mysterious fluff and hair you’ll find mixed in after a few plays.
Bubble Machine
Bubbles might seem magical, but I hate to burst your bubble and tell you they’re a slippery nightmare on hardwood floors.
Crayola 'Washable Paint Sticks'
Mess-free? As if! These vibrant sticks will leave trails on walls, couches, and tables - shall I continue?
Just ‘cause they are washable doesn’t make the labour of the cleanup any more hassle-free.
Recorder
Need I say any more? These things have been causing parents headaches for years… and almost always end up going missing after a few ear-piercing plays - I wonder why?
If you have bought any of these toys, there’s still time to return it and swap for something a little more peaceful.
