FAQS

Have questions about Maison Rue toys, shipping, or product safety? Our Open ended toys FAQ answers common questions about open-ended toys, materials, safety testing, orders, and returns. If you’re looking for more information about how our toys support creative play and child development, you’ll find helpful answers below.

Product Safety & Materials

Why do you use acrylic?

We use premium, crystal-clear acrylic because it allows children to explore light, color, transparency, and reflection in ways that natural materials alone cannot. Unlike many plastics used in mass-market toys, our acrylic is dense, durable, and selected specifically for children's play. Every acrylic component is independently tested to meet or exceed US and EU toy safety standards.

Are your products really non-toxic?

Yes. Every Maison Rue style is independently tested to meet CPSIA and EN71 toy safety standards. Our materials are tested for lead, phthalates, heavy metals, and other harmful substances during the raw materials and the finished product stage for peace of mind before it reaches your family.

Why are some pieces made from wood and others from acrylic?

Each material serves a different purpose. Natural beechwood provides warmth, stability, and durability, while acrylic introduces light, color, and sensory exploration. Together they create richer open-ended play experiences than either material alone.

Will the acrylic scratch?

Acrylic can develop fine surface marks with normal play over time. These cosmetic marks are expected and do not affect the safety, durability, or play value of the product.

About Our Toys

What Sets Maison Rue Toys Apart?

We believe children deserve fewer, better toys.

Not all acrylic is created equal. While many cheaper toys use lower-grade plastics to reduce costs, Maison Rue uses premium virgin acrylic chosen for its exceptional clarity, durability, and suitability for children's play. Every production run is independently tested to meet or exceed CPSIA, EN71 and other applicable toy safety standards, including testing for lead, phthalates and other harmful substances.

Our commitment to quality extends far beyond the materials themselves. Each piece is thoughtfully crafted using premium beechwood, non-toxic finishes, and meticulous hand assembly. Many of our collections feature intricate hand-finished details, such as hand-crocheted elements that require skilled craftsmanship and time. We work with manufacturing partners who prioritize fair wages, safe working conditions, and responsible production practices.

Rather than creating toys designed to be replaced, we create heirloom-quality pieces that are made to be played with, displayed, and passed down. Every Maison Rue collection is designed to grow with your child, making it an investment in years of meaningful, open-ended play.

Have your products been featured anywhere?

Yes. Maison Rue has been featured by leading publications including Vogue, MilK Magazine and Babylist. Maison Rue was recognized as Children's Lifestyle Brand of the Year by MilK Magazine in 2026.

Will my child outgrow these toys?

Open-ended toys evolve alongside children's interests. A toddler may begin by stacking and sorting, while an older child may build cities, create stories, experiment with architecture, or explore early STEM concepts using the very same pieces.

Do all Maison Rue sets work together?

Yes. Every collection is intentionally designed to complement one another. Whether you begin with a single set or gradually expand your collection, each piece integrates seamlessly to create endless new play possibilities.

Are they educational?

Rather than teaching a single skill, our toys encourage broad developmental learning through play, including:

  • Fine motor skills
  • Problem solving
  • Spatial reasoning
  • Creativity
  • Storytelling
  • Early STEM concepts
  • Language development
  • Independent play

Play & Development

What makes open-ended play different?

Unlike toys with one correct outcome, open-ended toys invite children to create, imagine, experiment, and solve problems in their own way. The same set can become a castle today, a city tomorrow, and a marble run next week.

Do you have activity ideas?

Yes. Visit our Activities & Lessons Library for creative play invitations, sensory activities, light table ideas, and educational inspiration designed specifically by an early childhood educator for Maison Rue collections.

Orders & Shipping

When will my order ship?

Orders typically ship within 3 business days. During busy periods (like holidays or flash sales), shipping may take up to 7 business days. Once your order ships, you’ll receive a confirmation email with tracking information.

Can I cancel or adjust my order?

Yes — if your order hasn’t shipped yet, we can help adjust or cancel it. Email us at hello@maisonruekid.com with your order number as soon as possible. We can’t cancel or adjust orders once a shipping label has been created, but we’ll always do our best to assist.

Do you restock sold out products?

Yes, although many collections are produced in small batches. Popular styles can sell out quickly, and restocks may take several months depending on production schedules. If a product is unavailable, we recommend joining the waitlist on the product page. You can also email us if you'd like us to find you a similar product that is in stock and ready to ship.

Can I place a preorder?

When available, preorder items will clearly state their estimated shipping window on the product page. If your order includes both preorder and in-stock items, your order may ship together once all items are available unless otherwise noted.

How much is shipping?

Shipping is calculated at checkout based on your location and preferred carrier. We offer free domestic shipping on orders over $100 USD and free international shipping on orders over $400 USD.

Can I send my order as a gift?

Absolutely. Many families purchase Maison Rue as baby shower, birthday, or holiday gifts. Pricing is never included in the package, making it ready for gifting.

How long will my shipping take?

Delivery times depend on your shipping choice and carrier. All orders are shipped from Los Angeles, CA. Standard domestic orders usually arrive within 1–7 business days after dispatch.

My package is lost or missing — what should I do?

We’re here to help. First, check your tracking info. If the package is marked delivered but you haven’t received it within 24 hours we suggest contacting the carrier immediately and asking for proof of delivery. We insure all UPS, Fedex and USPS packages so you will have the chance to file a claim in the case that it was lost. You can also email us with your order number and tracking number at hello@maisonruekid.com for help.

Returns & Exchanges

What is your return policy?

We accept returns or exchanges within 30 days of delivery. All items must be returned in unused condition, with original packaging and parts. Products that appear used or washed may be refused upon inspection. Once processed, refunds will return to your original payment method within 5–7 business days of receipt.

Do you provide return labels?

For domestic returns, we can provide a return label and deduct the cost from your refund. If you choose to ship with your own carrier, we’ll send instructions via email. Unfortunately, return labels are not available for international orders.

Can I exchange my item?

Yes. If you want a different color or style, we recommend submitting a return for your original order and placing a new order — this ensures your new item arrives fastest. Alternatively, we can process your exchange once your return arrives.

Product Care

How should I clean my toys?

Natural wood should be wiped with a soft, slightly damp cloth and dried immediately. Acrylic can be cleaned using a microfiber cloth and mild soap if needed. Avoid harsh chemicals, abrasive cleaners, prolonged soaking, or dishwashers.

Can these toys be used outdoors?

Yes, although we recommend supervised outdoor play. To preserve the beauty of natural wood avoid leaving products exposed to rain or water, excessive moisture, or prolonged direct sunlight.