Understanding Baby Product Safety Standards: AU, NZ, US & EU Compared

Kiddospot Team
2026-04-06T10:00:04+10:00

A clear guide to baby product safety standards in Australia, New Zealand, the US, and the EU — so you can shop with confidence wherever you are.
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When it comes to your baby's safety, not all products are created equal — and neither are the regulations that govern them. Whether you're shopping locally or ordering from overseas, understanding the safety standards that apply in your country (and others) helps you make confident, informed choices for your little one.

At Kiddospot, we design and source products that meet or exceed the highest international standards. Here's what you need to know about baby product safety across Australia, New Zealand, the US, and the EU.

Australia: AS/NZS Standards

Australia's baby product safety is governed by mandatory standards under the Australian Consumer Law (ACL), administered by the ACCC. Key standards include:

AS/NZS 8811.1 — covers infant sleep products including mattresses and sleep surfaces

AS/NZS 2195 — folding cots and portable cots

AS/NZS 4220 — bunk beds (relevant for toddler transitions)

For textiles, Australia follows OEKO-TEX and GOTS certifications as best-practice standards, though they are not legally mandated. Products sold in Australia must also comply with mandatory warning labels and age-appropriate safety markings.

New Zealand: Aligned with AU, with Local Nuances

New Zealand shares many standards with Australia under the AS/NZS joint framework, administered by the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE). However, NZ has its own product safety regulations under the Fair Trading Act and Consumer Guarantees Act.

Products imported from Australia generally meet NZ requirements, but always check for NZ-specific labelling

Plunket and the NZ Ministry of Health publish safe sleep guidelines that align with AS/NZS standards

GOTS and OEKO-TEX certifications are increasingly recognised by NZ retailers and parents

United States: CPSC and ASTM Standards

In the US, baby product safety is overseen by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). Products must comply with ASTM International standards. Key standards include:

ASTM F2194 — bassinets and cradles

ASTM F1169 — full-size baby cribs

ASTM F406 — non-full-size baby cribs and play yards

For textiles, the US requires compliance with the Flammable Fabrics Act and CPSC regulations on lead and phthalates. GOTS and OEKO-TEX certifications are widely recognised and trusted by US parents.

European Union: CE Marking and EN Standards

The EU has some of the world's most rigorous baby product safety requirements. Products must carry a CE mark and comply with EN standards, including:

EN 1888 — prams and pushchairs

EN 716 — children's cots and folding cots

EN 13209 — baby carriers

The EU's REACH regulation restricts hazardous chemicals in textiles, making GOTS and OEKO-TEX Standard 100 certifications particularly meaningful for EU parents.

What to Look For When You Shop

Relevant national certification marks (CE for EU, CPSC compliance for US, AS/NZS for AU/NZ)

GOTS or OEKO-TEX certification for all textiles and soft goods

Clear age and weight guidelines on all products

Reputable retailers who can provide documentation on request

At Kiddospot, our Organic & Natural collection features GOTS and OEKO-TEX certified products, and our Newborn Essentials range is curated with safety as the top priority. Explore our Most Loved products to see what parents across AU, NZ, and beyond trust most.