Toys: a naturally short lifespan
A typical toy is actively used for 6 to 24 months before a child grows and moves on to something new. This short usage window makes toys ideal for circulating between families: a toy that's "done" for a 4-year-old is exactly what a neighbour with a 2-year-old is looking for.
On Jetroque, the toys category is one of the most active, especially in areas with many young parents (family-friendly neighbourhoods like the Plateau, Rosemont, Sainte-Foy, Verdun in Montreal; the 11th, 12th, 14th, 18th, 19th arrondissements in Paris).
What kinds of toys can I post?
Any toy that is functional, clean and safe. Here are the main subcategories:
How to give away or swap toys
- Photograph the toy (or the bundle). If possible, take a photo with all pieces visible.
- Specify the recommended age and condition (complete, missing pieces, normal signs of use).
- "Give" or "Swap" mode: swapping works well for children's toys ("Lego bundle for Playmobil castle").
- Note whether the toy has been cleaned/washed recently, especially for stuffed animals and bath toys.
- Arrange a pick-up with a neighbouring parent via the chat.
When should you give away your children's toys?
- Birthdays / Christmas gifts: a new round of toys means it's time to let go of the old ones.
- Age change: your child is moving from fine motor play to board games.
- Moving: you can't take everything — natural selection happens.
- Seasonal tidying (back to school, end of the school year).
- Never-used toy received as a gift that wasn't a hit: give it away quickly — it'll be as good as new for another child.
- Duplicates (two identical stuffed animals, two of the same puzzle).
Checklist: a well-posted toy finds a home in just a few hours
Before posting, check that:
- The toy is clean (wiped down, washed if possible)
- All pieces are present (Lego, Playmobil, board games complete)
- The batteries work, or it's noted that they need replacing
- The recommended age is specified (CE label, manufacturer indication)
- The overall condition is honestly described (very good, good, fair)
- No safety defects (fragile parts, accessible batteries, dangerous fasteners)
- For stuffed animals: mention whether recently washed or not
Why give away toys?
The toy industry has a significant carbon footprint: the majority of toys are made of plastic, manufactured in Asia and shipped long distances. For every toy sold, on average 1 to 5 kg of CO₂ is emitted during production and transport.
Giving a toy through Jetroque avoids new production, saves money for a neighbouring family (new toys aren't cheap: $30–$150), and frees up space at home. A triple win. Full methodology →
Frequently asked questions — Toys
How do I give away my children's toys?
Download Jetroque, photograph the toy or bundle, and post it as a "Give" in 10 seconds. Specify the age range, condition, and pieces included. Neighbouring families typically respond within 24–48 hours in dense areas.
Which toys are not accepted?
Broken toys, toys with missing small parts intended for children under 3 (choking hazard), toys recalled for safety reasons, heavily worn or unhygienic toys. Stuffed animals are fine if in good condition — note whether they've been washed.
Can I give away a bundle of toys?
Yes — highly recommended. Bundles ("500-piece Lego lot", "complete 2–3 year bundle: 12 toys") find takers very quickly and make logistics easier for everyone.
What should I do with broken or unusable toys?
If repairable: mention it — some handy parents will take it on. If unusable: drop it off at an eco-collection point (Eco-systèmes Mobilier in France, Recyc-Québec for battery-operated or electronic toys).
Are second-hand stuffed animals really hygienic?
Yes, as long as they've been machine washed at 30–40°C. Note "recently washed" in the description. Stuffed animals that can't go in the washing machine can be disinfected with steam or by freezing for 48 hours.
What about second-hand video games and consoles?
Welcome! Specify the console (PS5, Switch, Xbox…), the condition of the controllers, cables included, and any remaining warranty. For digital games tied to an account: these are non-transferable — do not post them.
Free up space and make families happy
10 seconds to post. Bundled lots = a match in just a few hours.
Post now