ASTM F963 vs EN71: Which Plush Safety Certification Does Your Product Need?

If you plan to sell plush toys to consumers, safety certification is not optional — it is the law in most markets. The two most important standards are ASTM F963 and EN71. Here is what each covers and which your product needs.

What Is ASTM F963?

ASTM F963 is the United States toy safety standard. It governs mechanical hazards, flammability, and limits on harmful substances like lead. If you sell plush in the USA, ASTM F963 compliance is mandatory for children’s products.

What Is EN71 (and CE)?

EN71 is the European toy safety standard, and it is closely tied to the CE mark required to sell toys in the EU and UK. EN71 is split into parts covering mechanical and physical properties, flammability, and chemical safety.

• USA / Canada: ASTM F963.
• EU / UK: EN71 and CE marking.
• UAE / Middle East: Often accepts EN71-based testing; confirm local rules.
• Australia: Aligns closely with EN71-style requirements.

Which One Do You Need?

The answer depends on where you sell. Many brands selling globally obtain both ASTM F963 and EN71/CE to cover all major markets. JollyAnime produces every plush to ASTM F963, EN71, and CE standards through our factory in China, so you are covered worldwide.

Manufacturing You Can Rely On

Great plush starts with great manufacturing. JollyAnime produces every order through our factory in China, where experienced pattern makers, machinists, and quality inspectors bring designs to life with consistency. Each step, from material selection to final inspection, is handled with care so your plush look and feel the way they should.

• Skilled pattern making that captures your character accurately in 3D.
• Quality materials including soft fabrics and resilient PP cotton fill.
• Rigorous quality control against your approved sample.
• Full safety testing to ASTM F963, EN71, and CE standards.

With a 100-unit MOQ and 30–45 day lead times, you get factory-grade craftsmanship without the unpredictability that plagues less experienced suppliers.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between ASTM F963 and EN71?

ASTM F963 is the US toy safety standard, while EN71 is the European standard tied to CE marking. They cover similar hazards but apply to different regions.

Do I need both certifications?

If you sell in both the US and Europe, yes. Brands selling globally often obtain both to simplify market access.

Is the CE mark the same as EN71?

Not exactly. EN71 is the test standard; the CE mark is the declaration that the product meets EU toy safety requirements, supported by EN71 testing.

Are JollyAnime plush certified?

Yes. All plush are produced to ASTM F963, EN71, and CE standards.

Ready to bring your idea to life? JollyAnime works with our factory in China to turn your concept into production-ready custom plush and mascots, backed by ASTM F963, EN71, and CE compliance. Get your free quote today and we’ll reply with pricing, timelines, and next steps.