Almost half of tested toys sold by third-party online sellers have potential health and safety risks, an investigation found.
Serious hazards such as small, easy-to-swallow parts and magnets, and cords that could wrap around a child’s neck, were found in 48% of the 225 tested playthings.
And almost nine in 10 (88%) did not comply with rules such as for levels of chemicals or toxins, the probe claimed.
The British Toy and Hobby Association study of toys sold via Amazon, eBay, AliExpress and Wish found features that could choke, strangle, burn, poison or electrocute kids.
A flying ball remote-control helicopter on Amazon was found to have an easy-to-open compartment for button batteries, which could be lethal if swallowed by a child.
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A set of dolls on eBay contained a restricted chemical at a level of 36.41%, when it should have been no more than 0.1%.
Unlike high street retailers, there is no legal requirement for online marketplaces to check the safety of products listed by third-party sellers
The BTHA is calling for a crackdown as parents start searching for bargain Christmas gifts online.
The campaign is backed by mum Sam McCarthy, 35, whose two-year-old daughter Rebecca almost died after swallowing 14 colourful magnets.
Sam, of Basildon, Essex, said: “The Government needs to take urgent action before any other child is critically injured or even dies.”
eBay said: “We work closely with authorities including Trading Standards to help ensure sellers and listings comply with laws and regulations.”
Amazon said: “We require all products in our store to comply with applicable laws and regulations.”
Wish and AliExpress said they took action against traders breaching safety rules.
