The Best Stuffed Animals
People of all ages love stuffed animals. They bring cuddly comfort during stressful times and help your little one calm down when bedtime rolls around. And let's not forget how adorable they look atop a freshly made bed or on the corner of a couch. Whether you're a collector or simply looking for a snuggle buddy, we have found quite the selection for you.
What to Look For
In our research, we found that the best stuffed animals are soft, snuggle-worthy, easy to clean, and durable. For example, TeeTurtle’s reversible octopus plushie offers you a tough yet cuddly stuffed animal that you can throw in the wash. If you’re looking to add to your Sqishmallow collection, consider the Kellytoy Mystery Box, which comes with three 8-inch plushies. Read on to learn more about our favorite picks. We’re sure you’ll find one that suits your snuggling requirements.
TeeTurtle Reversible Octopus Plushie
Cuddly and cute
TeeTurtle’s small and squishy octopus plushie is a popular pick for stuffed animal fans. Measuring at 4 inches, this little guy can be placed practically anywhere. Personally, we think it looks pretty good on a home office desk or in a locker. Wherever you put this plushie, we’re sure you’ll think it’s just as charming as we do. One of our favorite features is that it’s reversible. One side is happy, while the other is more on the grumpy side. It’s a fun way of showing your friends and family how you’re feeling that day.
Pros:
- So many colors to choose from
- Easy to wash
- Stays soft longterm
- Helps children display their feelings
- Very portable
Cons:
- Wish they came in larger size options
Squishmallow Kellytoy Mystery Box
A collector's delight
Plushie enthusiasts will be quick to tell you that Squishmallows are the top of line stuffed animals, and we’d have to agree. For starters, they’re made from high-quality polyester and feature a buoyant filling that helps the plushies maintain their shape. Even better, they’re machine washable and dryer friendly. And while we know that all Squishmallows are adorable, one of the fun perks of this mystery three-pack is that you don’t know what you’re going to get. But don’t worry — we’re sure you’ll love it.
Pros:
- They’re small, but not too small
- Great for all ages
- Good price considering the quality
- The box they come in is cute enough for gifting
Cons:
- Might get duplicates if you already have a lot of Squishmallows
Misscindy Giant Teddy Bear
Bear hug
This behemoth of a bear will certainly be a conversation starter. Sitting at 47 inches, this stuffed animal is the perfect cuddle monster and is well-built, too. It’s made primarily with polypropylene and has a soft fur-like consistency. It comes well-stuffed, but you can easily add more filler. We especially like the bear’s welcoming and tender facial expression. Whether you’re getting this for yourself or your little one, this stuffed animal is classy enough to be put on display.
Pros:
- Kids love the large size
- Available in several different colors
- A great addition to baby shower decorations
- Easy to stuff
- Spot clean or machine wash
Cons:
- More stuffing might be needed, depending on your preference
Plush Creations Talking Plush Farm Animals
Old MacDonald
Stuff animals aren’t just for cuddling. If you have a toddler, Plush Creations’ talking farm animals are a fun and safe way for your child to learn about everyone’s barnyard friends. With a press of a button, each animal introduces itself and then makes a realistic sound — so if you hear a rooster crowing in the playroom, you’ll know why. Rest assured that these toddler-friendly toys are free from toxic materials and are soft enough for snuggles.
Pros:
- A red fabric button makes it easy for toddlers to interact with the toys
- Animal sounds are accurate and authentic
- Designed for small hands
- The barn can store all the animals
Cons:
- Barn can’t stand up on its own
Pillow Pets Paw Patrol Marshall Sleeptime Lites
Whether your kids enjoy Paw Patrol or not, we daresay that they’ll love this unique stuffed animal. What makes this so special? First off, it lights up, but not how you think. It’s actually bright enough to emit a bright host of colorful stars on the ceiling. So if your little one is scared of the dark, this stuffed animal may help them fall asleep. And when morning time rolls around, this darling Dalmatian acts as a traditional stuffed animal ready for some daily snuggles.
Pros:
- Lights feature three color modes
- Night light shuts off after 20 minutes
- Tough enough for rambunctious kids
- Perfect for roadtrips
Cons:
- Batteries drain fast
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I wash stuffed animals?
Generally speaking, stuffed animals can be put in the washing machine. However, some stuffed animals are too big or come with circuitry and built-in batteries. If that’s the case, simply spot clean. As always, please read the manufacturer’s recommendations before proceeding.
Are plushies and stuffed animals the same thing?
There are some differences between the two, but we think so. Plushies tend to be more smooth and super-stuffed, but they’re basically the same. They’re both cuddly and come in endless varieties.
Can stuffed animals help with your mental health?
While a snuggly bear is no substitute for real therapy, the sense of touch and closeness can be soothing and help calm anxiety in both children and adults.
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