Growing up in the ’60s and ’70s, toys were less about safety and more about sheer, unfiltered fun. Back then, we played with gadgets and gizmos that could spark, spin, shoot, and sometimes even explode. No one thought twice about sharp edges, small parts, or the occasional toxic material—if it entertained us, it was good to go. But looking back now, it’s hard to believe some of these toys ever made it onto store shelves. Here are 14 popular toys from the ’60s and ’70s that would definitely be recalled today.
1. Creepy Crawlers Thingmaker
The Creepy Crawlers Thingmaker let kids create their own rubbery bugs by pouring liquid plastic, called Plasti-Goop, into metal molds. The molds were then heated to 400 degrees in an open-faced hot plate, with no protective covering in sight. Burns were practically a rite of passage if you owned one of these. Today, there’s no way a toy with exposed heating elements would make it past safety regulations.
But back then, making your own squishy bugs felt like magic, even if you came away with a few blisters.
2. Clackers
Clackers were two hard acrylic balls attached to a string that you swung up and down to make them smack together with a loud clack. The goal was to get them going fast enough to create a rhythmic, almost hypnotic sound. But if you weren’t careful—or even if you were—the balls could shatter mid-clack, sending shards flying everywhere. Between broken fingers and flying plastic, it’s no wonder these were pulled from shelves.
Despite the risks, we loved the satisfying clack-clack sound, even if it came with a side of danger.
3. Lawn Darts (Jarts)
Lawn Darts, or Jarts, were essentially giant metal darts that you’d toss into the air, aiming for a plastic ring target on the ground. The problem? Those sharp, weighted tips could cause serious injuries if they landed anywhere other than the grass. There were numerous reports of accidents, leading to a full ban in the late ’80s.
But for a while, they were a backyard staple, and we thought nothing of flinging them high into the air—even if it meant ducking for cover afterward.
4. Easy-Bake Oven (Original Model)
The Easy-Bake Oven seemed harmless enough—it was just a mini oven powered by a light bulb, right? But that little bulb got hot, and the metal interior wasn’t exactly kid-friendly. Burned fingers and melted plastic were common, and some models even had design flaws that could trap tiny hands inside. Today’s versions are much safer, but the originals were basically tiny fire hazards.
Still, there was nothing like baking your own slightly undercooked cake in the comfort of your bedroom.
5. Battlestar Galactica Colonial Viper
This Battlestar Galactica toy came with a spring-loaded mechanism that fired tiny plastic missiles. The problem? Those little missiles were the perfect size to get lodged in a child’s throat. After a tragic choking incident, the toy was quickly recalled, and missile-firing toys were redesigned with safety in mind.
But for a brief time, launching those tiny projectiles across the living room felt like the height of cool.
6. Super Elastic Bubble Plastic
Super Elastic Bubble Plastic let kids blow plastic bubbles using a straw and a tube of colorful goop. The bubbles were fun, sure, but the fumes from the chemicals were anything but safe. The solvent in the plastic was highly flammable and emitted toxic vapors, which we inhaled with every bubble we blew. Today, this would never pass safety standards.
But back then, blowing giant, stretchy bubbles was worth every light-headed moment.
7. Gilbert U-238 Atomic Energy Lab
Yes, you read that right—this toy came with actual radioactive materials. The Gilbert U-238 Atomic Energy Lab allowed kids to conduct experiments with small amounts of uranium ore. While the radiation levels were considered “safe” at the time, today’s standards would shut this down in a heartbeat. It was pulled from shelves pretty quickly, but not before sparking plenty of curiosity.
Who knew a childhood science kit could double as a radiation hazard?
8. Slip ’N Slide
The Slip ’N Slide seemed innocent enough—a long, slick sheet of plastic you’d run and dive onto for some backyard fun. But if you were older, taller, or heavier than the toy’s intended audience (which many of us were), the risk of injury skyrocketed. Broken bones, sprained necks, and back injuries were common, especially for adults who couldn’t resist giving it a try. The Consumer Product Safety Commission eventually issued warnings about its dangers.
Still, the thrill of sliding headfirst at top speed made it a summer favorite, no matter the risks.
9. Sky Dancers
Sky Dancers were little fairy dolls with wings that you’d launch into the air by pulling a ripcord. They’d spin and fly unpredictably, often shooting straight into faces, ceilings, or unsuspecting pets. Eye injuries and bruises became so common that the toys were eventually recalled. Today, there’s no way a toy with such unpredictable flight paths would stay on shelves.
But at the time, watching those dolls twirl into the sky felt like magic—until they crashed back down.
10. Chemistry Sets with Real Chemicals
Chemistry sets in the ’60s and ’70s weren’t just about mixing baking soda and vinegar. They came with actual chemicals, including things like potassium nitrate and sulfur, which could be used to create real explosions. Instructions for making smoke bombs or minor chemical reactions were common, and safety goggles weren’t always included. Today’s kits are much tamer, and for good reason.
But back then, the thrill of creating mini science experiments (and the occasional small fire) was irresistible.
11. Fisher-Price Little People (Original Design)
The original Fisher-Price Little People were small, peg-shaped figures that fit perfectly into tiny toddler hands. Unfortunately, they also fit perfectly into tiny toddler mouths, making them a serious choking hazard. Over time, the design was changed to make them larger and safer, but those original sets would be pulled off shelves in a heartbeat today.
Still, they were a beloved part of our toy boxes, and we played with them endlessly—choking hazards or not.
12. Wham-O Air Blaster
The Wham-O Air Blaster shot concentrated blasts of air that could knock over cups or surprise unsuspecting siblings. While it seemed harmless, the air pressure was strong enough to cause ear injuries or eye damage if fired at close range. A toy that could potentially burst an eardrum? Definitely not making it past today’s safety tests.
But in the ’70s, it was the perfect tool for sneak attacks during living room battles.
13. Mattel Belt Buckle Derringer
This toy was designed to look like a real belt buckle that concealed a tiny cap gun. With the press of a button, the gun would flip out and fire a cap, complete with noise and smoke. The realistic design and sudden pop made it a favorite among kids—but also incredibly dangerous, especially when mistaken for a real weapon. It’s hard to imagine a toy like this even being considered today.
But in the wild, wild ’70s, it was just another way to play cowboy.
14. Water Wiggle
The Water Wiggle was a hose attachment with a plastic head that flailed wildly when the water was turned on. It seemed like harmless summer fun, but the force of the water could make the toy whip around uncontrollably. Worse, the metal nozzle inside could detach and cause injuries, and in some tragic cases, children were strangled when the toy wrapped around their necks. It was eventually recalled after multiple incidents.
But back then, we loved the unpredictable chaos, even if it meant dodging flying plastic.
These toys might seem downright dangerous by today’s standards, but they were a huge part of growing up in the ’60s and ’70s. They taught us to be a little cautious, a little creative, and maybe even a little tough. While we’re glad safety standards have improved, there’s no denying the fun we had—hazards and all.
