FAQ – goki Wooden Toys

1. What materials are used to make goki wooden toys?

goki primarily uses beech and maple, and occasionally linden, birch, rubberwood, or walnut. Depending on the product, solid wood is used, or in some cases, plywood.

2. What is the recommended age range for goki wooden toys?

The goki product range includes nearly 1,500 items for various age groups—from baby toys to more complex play concepts.

3. Are goki wooden toys safe for children?

Yes. All goki products meet at least the European standard EN71. Safety and child-friendly design are our top priorities. All our products undergo strict quality controls in our own laboratory. In addition, they are regularly tested by independent testing institutes to guarantee the highest safety standards.

4. What safety standards do goki products meet?

All products meet the EN71 standard. Additionally, individual products have further certifications or special production features.

5. Is untreated wood better at goki?

goki uses different finishes depending on the product. The key factor is always that the materials are safe and suitable for children.

6. What paints does goki use?

We use only water-based acrylic paints that, once dry, form stable polymer structures and are no longer water-soluble—making them safe even if chewed on. All baby products naturally comply with the DIN 53160 standard for sweat and saliva resistance.

7. How do I properly clean goki wooden toys?

Clean with a slightly damp cloth and then let them dry. Wood should not be exposed to moisture for extended periods.

8. Can goki wooden toys be put in the dishwasher?

No. As with all wooden products, the dishwasher can damage the material.

9. Can I disinfect goki toys?

Only with suitable, mild, and wood-safe products. Harsh cleaners should be avoided. Due to its natural components, wood has antibacterial properties. This makes it difficult for bacteria to settle—a clear advantage over many other materials.

10. How often should goki toys be cleaned?

As needed—especially if they are used frequently or have been put in the mouth by small children.

11. How durable are goki wooden toys?

goki toys are designed for durability and often accompany children for many years.

12. What should I do if there are scratches in the wood?

Minor signs of wear are normal. Depending on the product, they can be carefully smoothed out.

13. Can goki wooden toys get moldy?

Only if stored improperly in conditions of constant moisture. Storing them in a dry place reliably prevents this.

14. What happens if the toy comes into contact with water?

Brief contact is not a problem, but prolonged soaking should be avoided.

15. Can children put goki toys in their mouths?

Yes. All products are designed for this purpose, provided they are used in an age-appropriate manner.

16. Are wooden toys better than plastic ones?

goki relies on wood as a sustainable, durable, and tactile material.

17. Do goki wooden toys promote development?

Yes. Many goki products support motor skills, creativity, and free play.

18. How can you recognize high-quality goki toys?

By their clean workmanship, safe materials, thoughtful design, and child-friendly play value.

19. Are goki wooden toys sustainable?

Sustainability is a core value at goki—both in the choice of materials and in production.

20. Can you buy used goki toys?

Yes, as long as they are in good condition and complete.

21. What is the difference between solid wood and plywood at goki?

Solid wood is particularly sturdy; plywood is used only in certain designs.

22. What does FSC stand for?

FSC stands for Forest Stewardship Council – the label identifies wood products that come from responsibly managed forests.

If our products do not bear the FSC seal, one thing is certain: at the end of the year, we plant trees. And not just a few—but more than we take from the forest to manufacture our wooden toys. This creates a cycle that not only makes toys possible but also helps the future grow. Because our stance is clear: Those who work with wood bear responsibility for the forest. Those who produce for children bear responsibility for the future.

23. How do you repair Goki toys?

Repairing wooden toys is usually quite straightforward—here are the most important methods:

Cracks and splits: Apply wood glue to the crack, press the pieces together, and secure them with clamps or tape until the glue has dried (at least 1–2 hours). Wipe off any excess glue immediately.

Broken Parts: Clean the broken areas, apply wood glue, and fit the pieces together precisely. For larger pieces, secure with screw clamps.

Rough or Splintered Surface: Smooth with sandpaper (coarse first, then fine)—always sand in the direction of the grain. Then treat with child-safe oil or wax.

Chipped paint or varnish damage: Sand down the damaged area, then repaint or refinish with child-safe, solvent-free varnish or paint. Allow to dry completely before using the toy again.

Loose or wobbly joints: Remove old glue, apply fresh wood glue, and secure firmly. For mortise-and-tenon joints, use wooden dowels for reinforcement if necessary.

Important notes after repair

• Surfaces must be completely smooth and splinter-free
• Use only child-safe, non-toxic materials (varnishes, glues, oils)
• Thoroughly check the repaired toy for stability before use

Be careful when repairing baby toys: Extra caution is needed when dealing with toys for toddlers and babies. Repaired toys may have safety defects that are difficult to detect (e.g., internal weaknesses, risk of splinters). If in doubt, disposal is the safer option.

24. Is creaking normal?

Yes, wood is a natural material and can change slightly depending on the environment.

25. What should I do if the paint is peeling?

The product should be inspected. Safety always comes first!
If in doubt, contact the manufacturer.

26. Can wood cause allergies?

Very rarely. goki uses tested materials that are suitable for children.

27. Are goki toys suitable for outdoor use?

Only to a limited extent. Wooden toys are generally optimized for indoor use.

28. How does wood react to sunlight?

Strong sunlight can cause color changes.

29. Can wooden bath toys be used in the bath?

It’s best not to use them if the wood is painted, as the paint might chip off. For a short time, yes, but it must dry completely afterward.

30. Are the magnetic parts in goki toys safe?

Yes, provided they are securely installed and tested in the respective product.

31. How heavy are goki wooden toys?

Wooden toys are usually slightly heavier than plastic ones, which contributes to their stability.

32. How do you clean goki toys after an illness?

Wipe them down with a mild detergent and let them dry completely.

33. How hygienic is the wood used by goki?

Wood has antibacterial properties due to its natural components. This makes it difficult for bacteria to settle—a clear advantage over many other materials. Despite its positive properties, wooden toys should be cleaned regularly.

34. How can you be sure that goki products are free of harmful substances?

By complying with EN71 and other certified standards.

35. Where does goki manufacture its wooden toys?

In addition to “Made in Germany” products manufactured at two of its own production sites in southern Germany, the company is increasingly relying on European manufacturing. In Moldova, HOLZTIGER figures are lovingly handcrafted and bear the “Made in Europe” seal. Currently, some of our wooden and textile toys are still produced in China. However, the relocation of this production to Europe has already been initiated. The goal is to create more sustainable supply chains, shorten transport routes, and further strengthen European value creation.

36. Why do new goki toys have a smell?

This is due to the natural material, wood, and is completely harmless.

37. How should goki toys be stored properly?

In a dry, clean place, protected from constant moisture.

38. Can wood dry out in a child’s room?

Very dry air can affect wood, but this is usually not a cause for concern.

39. How can you store goki toys so that children can easily access them?

Open storage makes it easier for children to access the toys and encourages independent play.

40. What is goki66?

goki66 is a colorful product line that inspires children’s courage and creativity through its vibrant designs.

41. Are wooden toys quieter than plastic ones?

Yes, wood produces more pleasant and quieter play sounds.

42. How do you dispose of goki wooden toys?

Wooden toys without electronics

Pure wooden toys are considered wood waste and can be disposed of differently depending on the municipality:

• Recycling center – always a good option; the wood is recycled there
• General waste – if the toy is painted or treated, as harmful substances in the paint can interfere with wood recycling
• Give away / Donate – toy exchanges, thrift stores, food banks for children, etc.

Wooden toys with batteries or electronics

As soon as a battery or electrical component is installed, the toy is considered electronic waste (WEEE) and must be disposed of accordingly:

• Remove the battery first, if possible – place batteries separately in a battery collection box (available at supermarkets, drugstores, or electronics retailers)
• Take the device itself to a recycling center – there are designated containers for small electrical appliances
• Electronics retailers in Germany are legally required to accept electronic waste free of charge
• Built-in batteries (non-removable) – dispose of the entire device as electronic waste; do not disassemble it

43. Can wood splinter?

This can happen if the wood is severely damaged or worn, so check it regularly.

44. Are large wooden toys safer?

Safety does not depend on size, but on workmanship and standards.

45. How does humidity affect wood?

Wood can easily expand or contract.

46. How can you tell if a product offers good value for money?

Workmanship, material quality, and design play a key role.

47. Can goki toys be left outside?

Only for short periods, as wood is not permanently weatherproof.

48. How long do goki toys last?

With proper care, they last for many years and often for generations.