Measuring the noise levels of popular toys in stores, the researchers purchased the 10 loudest to test in a soundproof lab. All of the 10 exceeded 90 decibels and several reached 100 or more -- equivalent to the noise of a chain saw or subway train.
"Generally, toys are safe if used properly," said Dr. Hamid Djalilian, associate professor of otolaryngology and director of neurotology and skull base surgery. "We tested the sound levels at the speaker and again at 12 inches, which is about the length of a toddler's arm."
But problems could arise if a noisy toy is held too close to the ears, he said. "Children are very sensitive to loud and high-pitched sounds. Unfortunately, hearing loss from noise damage is permanent and not currently curable."
Unprotected exposure to sounds above 85 decibels for a prolonged period can lead to hearing impairment, according to the American Academy of Otolaryngology. The louder a sound is, the less time it takes to cause hearing loss, Djalilian explained.
He suggested that someone buying a noisy toy for a child pay attention to the speaker's location -- under the toy is often better than on top. Djalilian also advised that an adult hold the toy as a kid would and listen to its sound. "If it hurts your ears," he said, "then it's probably too loud for a child."
10 tested toys:
Toy / Decibel level at the speaker / Decibel level 12 inches from the speaker:- Road Rippers Lightning Rods / 108 / 68
- I Am T-Pain microphone / 101 / 64
- Tonka Mighty Motorized Fire Truck / 100 / 69
- Marvel Super Shield Captain America / 98 / 69
- Whac-A-Mole game / 95 / 69
- Tapz electronic reflex game / 95 / 65
- Sesame Street Let's Rock Elmo / 95 / 74
- VTech Magical Learning Wand / 94 / 69
- Toy Story Buzz Lightyear Cosmic Blaster / 93 / 60
- Green Lantern Colossal Cannon / 92 / 67
