Why I Choose American-Made Children's Products for My Family
Why I Choose American-Made Children's Products for My Family
By Nikki Benbenek, Co-Founder of Blueberry & Third
When my husband and I started Blueberry & Third in out of garage and basement, we made a promise: every piece of furniture we crafted would be made right here in America, from sustainably sourced materials, with non-toxic finishes safe enough for our own two daughters. As a mom and a quality-obssessed builder, I've spent countless hours researching children's products—not just for our business, but for my family. And time and again, I keep coming back to American-made.
Today, I want to share some of the incredible American-made children's brands I've discovered, used with my own kids, and deeply respect. These aren't just products—they're investments in quality, safety, sustainability, and the future of American craftsmanship.
The Hidden Cost of Cheap Imports: Why Made in USA Matters
Before I dive into the brands I love, let me explain why buying American-made children's products is about so much more than patriotism.
Lower Carbon Emissions = Better for Our Children's Future
Here's something that shocked me when I first started researching: one cargo ship transporting goods from overseas produces the same annual carbon emissions as 50 million vehicles. Since roughly 9 out of 10 products purchased by American households are manufactured overseas and shipped via container ships, this represents a massive environmental impact.
According to research from the Climate Leadership Council, goods manufactured in the United States are more than 2x more carbon-efficient than the world average. For example, the U.S. steel industry is 75-320% more carbon-efficient than global producers, depending on the product segment. When you buy American-made products, you're dramatically reducing the transportation emissions from your purchase while supporting manufacturers held to higher environmental standards.
As a mom, I think about the world my daughters will inherit. Every American-made product I choose is a small but meaningful step toward reducing our family's carbon footprint.
Stricter Safety Standards Protect Our Kids
The United States has some of the strictest consumer safety regulations in the world. All American manufacturers must comply with:
- CPSC (Consumer Product Safety Commission) regulations
- ASTM (American Society for Testing and Materials) safety standards
- EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) chemical management requirements
- State-level environmental and safety regulations
In 2008, the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act (CPSIA) put even more regulations on children's products, including strict limits on lead content. In fact, millions of toys from overseas have been found to contain poisonous levels of lead—something that's far less likely with American-made products adhering to our rigorous safety standards.
Supporting American Workers and Communities
When you buy American-made products, you're not just getting a higher-quality item—you're supporting real American families and communities. Manufacturing jobs provide stable, well-paying employment that keeps money circulating in local economies.
According to the Economic Policy Institute, every manufacturing job supports approximately 1.4 additional jobs in other sectors. That means when you buy a Crayola box of crayons made in Pennsylvania, or a wooden toy from a Connecticut workshop, you're helping support teachers, restaurant workers, and store clerks in those communities too.
As someone who employs local craftspeople in Ohio, I see firsthand how American manufacturing creates opportunity and strengthens communities.
The American-Made Brands I Love (And My Kids Love Even More)
Now, let me introduce you to some incredible American-made children's brands that have become staples in our home and my daughters' school.
1. Figgy Play Couches: The Gold Standard of Play Furniture
Website: figgyplay.com
Made In: South Carolina, USA
Founded By: Rachel Neill (mom of 6) & Chris Roepe (dad of 2) in Madison, Wisconsin
Why Figgy Stands Out
When I first discovered Figgy Play Couches, I was immediately impressed. Here's a play couch that's not just a toy—it's genuinely built to furniture standards, manufactured right here in South Carolina.
What Makes Figgy Special:
- 100% Made in USA: Every Figgy is handcrafted in South Carolina using CertiPUR-US certified foam
- Patent-Pending Velcro Connectors: This is genius engineering. Unlike other foam couches where pieces slide apart during play (so frustrating for kids!), Figgy's velcro system keeps structures stable
- GREENGUARD Gold Certified Fabrics: This certification means the fabrics meet some of the world's most rigorous chemical emissions standards—critical for children's products
- 10-Year Warranty: No other play couch company offers this. It speaks volumes about the quality of their American manufacturing
- Uniform Foam Thickness: Every base piece has the same thickness, creating stable, level builds. This seems like a small detail, but it makes a huge difference in how the couch functions
How My Daughters Use Their Figgy
We have a Figgy in Performance Microsuede+ at home, my 4-year-old builds elaborate forts almost daily— homes for her babies, massive castles, and of course obstacle courses. My 7-year-old uses it as a reading nook and actually does her work sprawled across it (the foam is firm enough to provide good support).
Real Parent Review I Love:
"We had the cheap version from a big box store. It lasted four months before the foam started breaking down. Figgy is on year three—foam is perfect, covers still look new. Made in the USA really matters."
The Sustainable Choice
Figgy's commitment to American manufacturing means:
- Shorter supply chain = lower carbon emissions
- CertiPUR-US foam = no formaldehyde, flame retardants, or heavy metals
- Machine-washable covers = longer product life, less waste
- Built to last 20 years = keeps furniture out of landfills
Learn more: figgyplay.com
2. Luke's Toy Factory: Reimagining Plastic with American Ingenuity
Website: lukestoyfactory.com
Made In: Danbury, Connecticut, USA
Founded By: Luke Barber (designer) & the Barber/Achiron families
Innovation Meets Sustainability
Luke's Toy Factory has done something remarkable: they've created toys that use 30% less plastic by replacing it with reclaimed maple sawdust from Midwestern furniture factories. Instead of that sawdust being incinerated, it's given a second life as beautiful, durable toys.
What Makes Luke's Toy Factory Special:
- 30% Maple Sawdust Composite: This isn't just eco-friendly marketing—it's genuine innovation that reduces plastic while creating a unique, silky-smooth texture
- 100% Made in USA: All manufacturing, assembly, packaging, and shipping happens in Danbury, Connecticut
- All-American Supply Chain: Every supplier is American, ensuring the highest quality and safety
- Colors Molded In: No paint to chip or flake off—safer for toddlers
- Teachers' Choice Award Winner: Recognized by Learning Magazine in the preschool category
Why These Trucks Are Perfect for Young Hands
My youngest daughter got the fire truck for her 3rd birthday, and I immediately noticed the thoughtful design. The pieces have slight "wiggle room," so toddlers with developing motor skills don't get frustrated trying to fit pieces together perfectly. It's a 3D stacking puzzle that becomes a working truck—brilliant for problem-solving and fine motor development.
The trucks are designed to look like they were hand-crafted by a woodworker but are made using state-of-the-art manufacturing. Each truck is about 6.5 inches long, perfect for little hands.
Real Parent Review:
"Our son loves these! We couldn't be happier—a sustainable toy that engages our son in creative, independent play AND it's made in America. Great product!" - Lauren W.
The Environmental Impact
At a time when 88% of toys are manufactured overseas (mainly in China), Luke's Toy Factory's commitment to American manufacturing is refreshing:
- 30% less plastic per toy compared to traditional plastic toys
- Upcycled sawdust that would otherwise be incinerated
- No overseas shipping = dramatically lower carbon emissions
- Locally sourced materials from U.S. furniture manufacturers
My daughters' school has a full set of Luke's trucks in the classroom, and they've held up beautifully through constant use by 20+ toddlers.
Learn more: lukestoyfactory.com
3. Uncle Goose: Michigan-Made Wooden Block Heritage
Website: unclegoose.com
Made In: Grand Rapids, Michigan, USA
Founded: Family-owned Michigan business
Heirloom-Quality Blocks Built to Last Generations
Uncle Goose has been making 100% American-made wooden blocks in Michigan for decades. When I say these blocks are heirloom quality, I mean it—they're designed to last several lifetimes.
What Makes Uncle Goose Special:
- 100% Made in USA: Every block is crafted in Grand Rapids, Michigan
- Sustainable Michigan Basswood: Sourced domestically from sustainable forests
- Non-Toxic Inks: Water-based, safe inks that meet all U.S. safety standards
- No Finishes or Coatings: Blocks are untreated, with no varnish, polish, sheen, or gloss
- Educational Design: From classic ABC blocks to specialized sets (astronomy, math, foreign languages)
Why Wooden Blocks Matter for Development
As a former teacher and current mom, I've seen firsthand how open-ended toys like blocks support child development. Uncle Goose blocks teach:
- Sorting and matching
- Ordering and sequencing
- Language development
- Spatial relations and physics
- Problem-solving and planning
- Fine motor skills and balance
The beauty of Uncle Goose is that they don't snap together (unlike plastic building blocks), which actually teaches children about gravity, balance, and physics. When a tower wobbles and falls, that's a learning moment!
The Sustainable Choice
Uncle Goose's commitment to American manufacturing and sustainability includes:
- Domestically sourced sustainable wood
- Non-toxic, water-based inks
- No harmful finishes or coatings
- Minimal packaging made from recycled materials
- Built to last generations = minimal waste
We have the classic ABC blocks at home, and we haev since passed them on to our younger cousins.
Learn more: unclegoose.com
4. Crayola: 120+ Years of American Manufacturing Excellence
Website: crayola.com
Made In: Easton & Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, USA
Founded: 1903 in Easton, Pennsylvania
An American Icon Still Made in America
In a world where so many iconic American brands have moved manufacturing overseas, Crayola stands as a beacon of domestic production. For over 120 years, Crayola has been making crayons in Pennsylvania—and they're not slowing down.
The Impressive Scale of American Manufacturing:
- 12 million crayons produced daily at the Easton, Pennsylvania facility
- 3 billion crayons annually—nearly all made in the USA
- 1,200+ jobs in Pennsylvania alone
- 70% of all Crayola production happens in the Lehigh Valley
What's Made in USA:
- All standard Crayola crayons (8, 24, 64-count boxes)
- Markers
- Model Magic and Air Dry Clay
- Silly Putty
- Most paints
- Color Wonder products
Why Crayola Stayed in America
In 2007, when most companies were moving production overseas, Crayola made a different decision: they doubled down on U.S. manufacturing capability. CEO Peter Ruggiero explained that Pennsylvania's location provides shipping advantages (close to major ports and highways), and the company values the generations of Lehigh Valley families who have worked at Crayola.
"We're proud that in first quarter of next year we will open facilities also in China and South Korea, but the foundation of our manufacturing is here. Seventy percent of our production is in the United States, all in the Lehigh Valley," Ruggiero said.
The Sustainability Story
Crayola has made impressive strides toward sustainable manufacturing:
- 100% renewable energy for U.S. manufacturing achieved in 2020 (partnership with solar farms)
- Recycling programs for old crayons and markers
- Zero waste initiatives (excess wax is recycled)
- Solar farm in Pennsylvania helps power factory operations
My daughters use Crayola crayons at home and at school. Knowing that every box is made by American workers in Pennsylvania—and that the company has been part of the American story for over a century—makes me proud to support them.
Real Impact:
The average child in the U.S. uses 730 crayons by age 10. That's a lot of opportunities to support American manufacturing!
Learn more: crayola.com
3. Lowercase Toys: Milwaukee's Eco-Friendly Learning Innovation
Website: lowercasetoys.com
Made In: Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
Founded By: Speech Language Pathologist
Turning Recycled Water Bottles Into Learning Tools
When I discovered Lowercase Toys at a Trade Show, I was immediately drawn to their mission: creating sustainable, developmentally-appropriate toys designed by a speech language pathologist. And the best part? They're made right here in Milwaukee, Wisconsin from recycled water bottles.
What Makes Lowercase Toys Special:
- Made in Milwaukee, Wisconsin - Proudly American-made in the USA
- Designed by a Speech Language Pathologist - Every toy supports developmental needs
- Made from Recycled Water Bottles - Eco-friendly sustainable materials
- Washable and Durable - Built to withstand enthusiastic playtime
- Open-Ended Play - Engineered to foster attention, problem-solving, and creativity
- Ages 3-12 - Toys that grow with children through multiple developmental stages
Developmentally Designed for Real Learning
As a former teacher, I deeply appreciate that Lowercase Toys aren't just cute—they're intentionally designed to support child development. Created by a speech language pathologist, these toys specifically target:
Language Development:
- Narrative language skills through storytelling
- Collaborative play and communication
- Creative expression
Cognitive Skills:
- Attention and focus
- Problem-solving abilities
- Mathematical thinking (interlocking blocks teach spatial relationships)
Fine Motor Skills:
- Large block pieces with simple functional connections
- Perfect for developing hand strength and coordination
- Designed for little hands to manipulate easily
The Sustainable Choice
Lowercase Toys' commitment to sustainability is impressive:
- Recycled Materials: Made from recycled water bottles
- American Manufacturing: Milwaukee, WI production = lower carbon emissions
- Washable: Extends product life, reduces waste
- Durable Construction: Built to last through years of play
- Travel-Friendly: Compact and easy to pack = encourages screen-free play anywhere
My daughters' school has several Lowercase Toys sets in their classrooms. The teachers love how easy they are to clean (just toss in the washer!) and how engaged the kids are during free play. My 4-year-old uses the felt dolls to act out elaborate stories—I've heard entire narratives about "going to the moon" and "running a restaurant."
Supporting Speech and Language Development
What sets Lowercase Toys apart is the expertise behind them. As someone designed by a speech language pathologist, each toy is created with specific developmental goals in mind:
- Open-ended design means no "right way" to play, encouraging creativity
- Simple toys reduce overstimulation and support focused attention
- Tactile materials provide sensory input that aids learning
- Collaborative play opportunities build social communication skills
For children working on speech and language skills—or any child, really—these toys are incredibly valuable. The open-ended nature naturally encourages conversation: "What are you building?" "Tell me about your character." "What happens next in the story?"
Real Parent Perspective:
As a mom who values both education and sustainability, Lowercase Toys check every box. They're thoughtfully designed, eco-friendly, American-made, and actually engage my kids in meaningful play.
Learn more: lowercasetoys.com
The Bigger Picture: Why American-Made Children's Products Matter
As both a manufacturer and a mom, I've seen both sides of this equation. Here's what buying American-made children's products really supports:
1. Better Environmental Standards
U.S. manufacturers face strict EPA regulations on:
- Carbon emissions from factories
- Chemical management and disposal
- Air and water quality
- Waste reduction
According to a 2021 study by Authenticity50, if the USA continues to reduce fossil fuel dependency through alternative energy sources, energy emissions will decrease up to 27% by 2035. American manufacturers are leading this charge with investments in solar energy, recycling programs, and eco-friendly materials.
2. Fair Labor Practices
When you buy American-made, you support:
- Fair wages and benefits
- Safe working conditions
- No child labor
- Regulated working hours
- Workers' rights to organize
These standards aren't always guaranteed with overseas manufacturing.
3. Economic Resilience
The COVID-19 pandemic taught us the fragility of global supply chains. American manufacturing provides:
- Supply chain security: Products aren't stuck on cargo ships for months
- Economic stability: Manufacturing jobs that can't be outsourced
- Community investment: Companies that give back to their local areas
- Innovation: American companies that can respond quickly to market needs
4. Quality You Can Trust
American manufacturers are accountable to U.S. consumers in ways that overseas factories simply aren't. If there's a quality issue, you can contact the company directly. If there's a safety recall, American companies respond quickly and effectively.
How to Find More American-Made Children's Products
Interested in finding more American-made products for your family? Here are my tips:
Look for These Certifications:
- "Made in USA" label (requires significant U.S. content)
- "Assembled in USA" (assembled here, may have imported components)
- GREENGUARD Gold Certified (low chemical emissions)
- CertiPUR-US (foam safety certification)
- FSC Certified (sustainable forestry)
Ask These Questions:
- Where is this product manufactured?
- What materials are used, and where do they come from?
- What safety certifications does it have?
- Does the company have a sustainability commitment?
- How long is this product designed to last?
Shop Small & Local First:
- Visit local toy stores and furniture makers
- Check farmers markets and craft fairs
- Support family-owned businesses in your community
- Ask store owners about product origins
What I'm Teaching My Daughters About Conscious Consumption
As a mom, I want my daughters to grow up understanding that every purchase is a choice—a vote for the kind of world we want to live in.
When we're shopping together, I point out Made in USA labels. We talk about:
- How products are made and the people who make them
- Why quality matters more than quantity
- How our choices impact the environment
- Supporting our community and American workers
The Bottom Line: Invest in Quality, Support America
Are American-made children's products more expensive than imports? Often, yes. But when you factor in:
- Longer product life (Figgy's 10-year warranty vs. cheap foam couches that last 4 months)
- Better safety standards (peace of mind is priceless)
- Lower environmental impact (reduced shipping emissions)
- Supporting American workers (strengthening communities)
- Heirloom quality (Uncle Goose blocks passed down for generations)
The value proposition becomes clear. You're not just buying a product—you're making an investment in quality, safety, sustainability, and the American economy.
Our Commitment at Blueberry & Third
At Blueberry & Third, we're proud to join companies like Figgy, Luke's Toy Factory, Uncle Goose, Crayola, and Lowercase Toys in keeping American manufacturing alive.
Every piece of furniture we create in our Ohio workshop is:
- Handcrafted from Baltic birch plywood
- Finished with third party-tested for non-toxic coatings
- Built to last for generations (250 lb weight capacity!)
- Made by skilled American craftspeople
- Shipped plastic-free in recycled cardboard
We believe American families deserve American-made quality. And we're committed to proving that sustainable, safe, beautiful children's furniture can still be made right here at home.
Shop American-Made Children's Products
Featured Brands Mentioned:
- Figgy Play Couches: figgyplay.com - South Carolina-made play furniture with 10-year warranty
- Luke's Toy Factory: lukestoyfactory.com - Connecticut-made sustainable toy trucks
- Uncle Goose: unclegoose.com - Michigan-made wooden blocks since the 1980s
- Crayola: crayola.com - Pennsylvania-made crayons, markers, and art supplies since 1903
- Blueberry & Third: blueberryandthird.com - Ohio-made children's furniture
About the Author:
Nikki Benbenek is the Co-Founder of Blueberry & Third, a children's furniture company based in Ohio. A mother of two, Nikki is passionate about sustainable manufacturing, child development, and supporting American-made products. Follow Blueberry & Third on Instagram @blueberryandthird for behind-the-scenes looks at American manufacturing.
Sources & Research:
- Authenticity50 (2021). "Why Made in USA is Better for the Environment." Research on transportation emissions and U.S. manufacturing sustainability.
- Climate Leadership Council (2025). "Carbon Advantage: U.S. Manufacturing Efficiency." Study showing U.S. goods are 2x more carbon-efficient than global average.
- Consumer Product Safety Commission (2008). Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act (CPSIA) regulations and lead content standards.
- Alliance for American Manufacturing (2022). "Crayola's Iconic Crayons are Still Made in USA."
- University of Michigan Center for Sustainable Systems (2025). "Carbon Footprint Factsheet." Data on global carbon emissions and manufacturing impact.
- World Resources Institute (2015). "By the Numbers: How the U.S. Economy Can Benefit from Reducing Greenhouse Gas Emissions."
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