Christmas shopping: What to check before you buy

As Christmas approaches, many of us are getting ready to shop for gifts, from toys for children to the latest electronic gadgets for family, friends, colleagues, or even ourselves. We browse leaflets delivered to our homes, scroll through online adverts, search e-commerce sites, or visit shops in person.

But whatever route we take, it’s essential to make sure that the products we buy are safe, suitable for their intended user, and compliant with the law. This means checking that toys and electronic goods carry the required markings, warnings, instructions, and documentation.

Many products, including toys, electrical items, and electronic devices such as mobile phones, tablets, gaming consoles and mains-powered Christmas decorations, must carry the CE mark. Depending on the item’s size, this mark must appear on the product itself, an attached label, the packaging, or an accompanying leaflet.

All product warnings and labels must be clear and visible before purchase, whether you are buying in store or online. Instructions for use and other required documents must also be provided, and all essential information must be written in Maltese or English at a minimum. Products must include the manufacturer’s contact details and, when relevant, the importer’s details as well.

Mains-operated products must have a 3-pin plug or be supplied with an adaptor for connection with a 3-pin socket.

For toys, information regarding suitability, including minimum and maximum age, height or weight recommendations, must be visible before purchase, both in shops and online. Toys must also come with labels and instructions explaining any inherent risks and how to use them safely.

Many electronic and electrical appliances, including smartphones, tablets, televisions, monitors, and large household devices, must display the EU Energy Label. This label helps consumers choose more energy-efficient models and, for certain product categories, provides sustainability information. Whether sold in store or online, the label must be clearly displayed. Additional product information must be available with the item and accessible through the EU’s EPREL database. For some products, scanning the QR code on the label leads directly to these details.

Consumers should also be aware that certain devices, such as mobile phones, tablets, headphones, headsets, earbuds and portable speakers, may be sold without a charger. A pictogram on the packaging indicates whether a charger is included. Information about compatible charger specifications must also appear in the instructions and on the packaging or the product itself.

So, as you make your Christmas purchases, remember to choose products that comply with safety and labelling requirements. Use and maintain them exactly as instructed, and ensure any accessories, consumables or upgrades are compatible. Safe, compliant products help protect both the user and those around them, making the festive season safer and more enjoyable for everyone.

More information on such products can be found on the Malta Competition and Consumer Affairs website.

This article was written by Inġ. Ruth Scerri Baldacchino, Engineer within the Technical Regulations Division at the MCCAA