Best Stuffed Animals for Babies and Toddlers 2024

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For many, stuffed animals are more than just toys. They become part of the family. Many kids have a favorite stuffed animal, also known as a lovey, that comforts them throughout all hours of the day.

Loveys come in all shapes and sizes — there are bears, monkeys, giraffes, bunnies and blankies. Some infants and toddlers ditch their favorite stuffed animals at a young age, while others keep them forever. In fact, some kids keep loveys through adulthood, passing their plush pals on to their own children.

While stuffed animals are a part of nearly every child’s upbringing, it’s important to note that the American Academy of Pediatrics states that newborns and infants should not sleep with any soft items in their cribs, stuffed animals included. And when it comes to picking out a cozy friend for babies, you want to make sure of a few things.

No small pieces or choking hazards: It’s best to pick a stuffed animal that has embroidered eyes and noses and stuffing, not beads, in the hands and feet. This can prevent any loose parts from falling or being ripped off and subsequently put in your baby’s mouth.

Opt for baby- and parent-friendly fabrics: It’s essential to make sure your baby’s stuffed animal is soft and won’t irritate her skin. Try to avoid fabrics like nylon and polyester, as they contain synthetics. Opt for toys made with cotton or jersey knit, and that are free from harmful dyes. You can also choose one that’s machine washable, which is convenient for those inevitable messes.

Pick one that’s age-appropriate: Battery-operated stuffed animals that light up and make sounds are probably better suited for the toddler set than for babies. And keep in mind that if you do have a toddler and want to experiment with a stuffed animal that lights up or plays sounds, some parents find putting in and replacing batteries to be a hassle.

With so many cute, cuddly stuffed animals out there, it’s tough to know what to choose. And while your tot will likely let you know which one she loves, it’s a good idea to research some excellent options. Who knows, one of these may become your little one’s lovey and the newest member of your family!

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For more than 100 years, Baby Gund has manufactured soft, cozy stuffed animals for all kids of all ages. Baby Gund My First Teddy Bear comes in a variety of colors and has the saying “My first teddy bear” on the paw, making it the perfect gift. And if teddy bears aren’t your cup of tea, Baby Gund has dozens of animals and styles, all highly rated, with and without music. Basically, Gund has any stuffed animal your baby could ever desire.

Dimensions: 10 x 7 x 3 inches

Age range: Newborn and up

This adorable, easy-to-hold, hand-stuffed giraffe is made from 100 percent organic Egyptian cotton, certified by the Global Organic Textile Standard, and made in certified fair-trade facilities. This giraffe is made with a bit of extra love, thanks to its embroidered eyes and nose — and its soft body.

Dimensions: 9 inches tall

Age range: Newborn and up

Known for its modern aesthetic, pastel colors and minimalist prints, Little Giraffe is the perfect plush pal for newborns. The simple and classic style, which comes in blue, pink and celadon, makes it a great addition to any nursery.

Dimensions: 12.2 x 9.06 x 9.06 inches

Age range: Newborn and older

Taggies is a stuffed animal with a twist. The patent-pending looped tags made from different materials like silk, felt, cotton and satin, provide infants with added tactile stimulation babies love for development, making Taggies a sweet and sensible pick for infants.

Dimensions: 12 inches tall

Age range: 4 months and up

Jellycat stuffed animals are a consumer favorite, with nearly 4,000 five-star ratings on Amazon. The plush characters are comfortable to snuggle with, while the storybooks bring those favorite stuffies to life. Plus, the combination of books and toys provides hours of endless entertainment.

Dimensions: 4 x 4 x 12 inches

Age range: Newborn and older

When it comes to stuffed animals, Squishmallows are the hottest trend. They are the beanie babies of today and have dozens of collectible characters, each with their own name, personality and unique story. The fluffy-as-marshmallow stuffed animals are infants’, toddlers’ and kids' current obsession these days. The Squishmallow Squad is real!

Dimensions: Sizes range from 3.5 inches to 24 inches

Age range: Newborn and older

Kids are notorious for making a mess. The last thing a parent wants is to constantly spot clean a beloved stuffed animal. Lambs & Ivy, a female-founded company headquartered in California, manufactures soft stuffed animals that are machine washable for easy cleaning. It’s recommended to air dry this toy after washing, but some owners suggest putting it in the dryer once it’s almost completely dry for five to 10 minutes to make the elephant soft and fluffy.

Dimensions: 12 x 5 x 13 inches

Age range: Newborn and older

Founded by a mom and stepdaughter design team in 2020, Red & Olive dolls come with either matching beanies or bows so your little one can twin with her new best friend. Additionally, they are made by women artisans in Peru. Proceeds from the purchases go to support these women and help break the cycle of poverty for their families.

Dimensions: 20-22 x 7 inches

Age range: 1 to 10 years old

Baby Einstein’s Octoplush musical toy provides babies with hours of entertainment thanks to the different song options. The volume control means babies can listen on their own; mom or dad don’t have to hear the same songs blasting on repeat.

Dimensions: 11 x 7 x 11 inches

Age range: 3 months and older

Cloud B’s Sleep Sheep is a baby registry staple and is also a sound machine that is proven to soothe babies to sleep. There are two sleep timers so it can automatically turn off after 23 or 45 minutes. But the coolest feature is that it soothes babies with an actual in-utero recording of a mother's heartbeat. Plus, the Sleep Sheep comes in a travel size, so you can bring the soothing toy with you on the go.

Dimensions: 13.9 x 9.8 x 7 inches

Age range: Newborn and older

Aliza Friedlander is a writer and PR strategist, celebrating both the triumphs and tribulations that come along with the work, mom juggle. Friedlander is passionate about providing parents with a space to express all their feelings and is an open book when it comes to her experience as a parent and a professional. She lives in Maryland with her two daughters and her husband.

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