Stuffed animals and plush toys are excellent companions for kids. Most children develop a special liking for these toys and become attached to them at some point in life. Whether your child prefers a bear, puppy or a fluffy giraffe, you can get a soft, adorable and snuggly stuffed animal and plush toy that will be your Child’s favorite. Stuff animals and plush toys are not only safe to play with but also have a captivating and fun appearance that is ideal for imaginative kid’s games.
Stuff animals and plush toys are extremely versatile as they are not only a reserve for infants because older kids and adults can also derive great pleasure and comfort from them. Since they have a widespread appeal, the market is thronged with a wide array of options to select from. For this reason, it is important that you have a thorough idea of what to look for if you are in the market for a stuffed animal or a plush toy.
Stuffed animals and plush toys are extremely versatile as they are not only a reserve for infants because older kids and adults can also derive great pleasure and comfort from them
Vital information that will help you choose a high-quality stuffed animal or plush toys that your kid will adore
The broad range of stuffed animals and plush toy brands in the market make it quite a challenge to find the perfect ones for your kids. Before settling on the right product for you, here is some information concerning plush toys and stuffed animals that will come in handy.
Practical Considerations
- Material
Currently, the materials used to make the exterior of plush toys and stuffed animals mostly lean towards synthetic fabrics because of the soft and comfortable texture. Some of the common materials include:
Plush Material
Just as suggested by the name most plush toys are made from plush material. Plush is convenient because it looks and feels like real fur. Modern plush toys are made from a plush material that is made from polyester because apart from being affordable, polyester is also durable making it kid-friendly. On the other hand older stuff animal and plush toy designs are made from plush material made from yarn or mohair.
Although Plush material made from polyester has the advantage of being reasonably priced and durable, the plush material made from natural fibers such as mohair has a softer texture and is also less prone to triggering allergies.
Terry Cloth
This material differs from the furry texture of plush as it has an extremely soft texture characterized by looped fibers. It can also be made from synthetic or natural fibers. Stuffed animals made from terry cloth have an extremely thick coat making them favorable for infants who love chewing on toys. Other fabrics used to make stuffed animal exteriors include cotton and spandex. These are materials are not very commonly used.
- Material used for stuffing
The material used to make the filling of a stuffed toy or plush material determines the usability and price of a stuffed animal. Some of the most common stuffing materials include;
Cotton
Cotton fills out stuffed animals and plush toys quite well and gives them a great shape. If you settle on a toy that is stuffed with cotton ensure that it is stuffed generously, otherwise the toy will quickly lose its shape. Toys stuffed using cotton are soft and snuggly
Synthetic batting
Most modern stuff animals and plush toys are stuffed using synthetic battling, because just like cotton it is soft and gives the toys a great shape. Since it is synthetic, the price is significantly lower as compared to cotton.
Plastic Pellets
While cotton and synthetic battling makes stuffed animals and plush toys soft and snuggly, plastic pellets increase the weight and create design opportunity to add modifications to the toy.
There are other materials used for stuffing but these three are the most common, when buying a stuffed animal or plush toy ensure you go for a material that is durable and soft.
choosing a stuffed animal or plush toy that your little one will adore
Apart from practical considerations such as materials used to make the exterior and the materials used for stuffing, there are also other key considerations. These include:
Pick a stuffed animal modeled after a animal that your kid will live and has a great shape and the appropriate size
There a wide variety to choose from both in terms of the animal they resemble to the shape and size. Choose a stuffed animal or plush toy that imitates animals that your kid loves such as a favorite cartoon character, a pet or an intriguing mythical creature.
Based on your preference you can choose a stuffed animal of plush toy that has enhanced functionality
If you are going for more than a cuddly companion then you are probably looking for one that can move and retain several forms. In this case, keep in mind that such a stuffed animal or plush toy has the advantage of added functionality but is also susceptible to breakage. There are many modifications made to such toys such as an inserted wire to help in shape retention and batteries to enable movement and sound.
- Select a stuffed animal or plush toy that is age-appropriate
There is an endless variety to pick from, therefore, choose a toy that is suitable for a child of a particular age. Here is a brief guideline on choosing the right toy based on age:
Age 0-2 years
In this age bracket go for a brightly colored toy with shorter fur and is also bigger in size to avoid the risk child swallowing it. Additionally, settle on a toy that is easily washable because of increased vulnerability to stains. If your child is in this age bracket, also avoid toys that have lots of tiny buttons and loose additions that are easily removable and easy to swallow.
Age 3 and above
Within this age brackets, kids already have a favorite cartoon character or favorite animal so choose a toy that bares close resemblance to what they love. Also go for a easily washable toy and avoid toys that resemble characters that instill fear in a child. For children at the lower end of the spectrum, avoid stuffed animals and plush toys that feature accessories which are easily removable and easy to swallow.
Consider how long your little one is likely to love the stuffed animal or plush toy you choose
If you are aiming at durability then go for a toy that a child will treasure for a long period of time. In this case avoid stuffed animals and plush toys that are specifically tailored for a particular age. For instance a brightly colored toy with exaggerated proportions is only perfect for a 1 year old and quickly becomes unwanted as a child grows up. For longevity, go for a cute teddy bear that is more likely to remain your child’s favorite for a long time.
If you are aiming at durability then go for a toy that a child will treasure for a long period of time
Choose a stuffed animal or stuffed toy that is suited to the available storage space
Choose a toy that seamlessly fits into your child’s living space. Storing stuff toys in squeezed spaces can significantly alter their shape.
Go for a toy that is unique from what the child already has
To prevent having an exact replica of what your child already has in excess, avoid buying a duplicate by going for a stuffed animal or plush toy that is unique in shape, size and color. Variety is great for kids and increases their interest in each toy.
Consider purchasing a stuffed animal or plush toy that reinforces or teaches a skill to your child
Apart from comforting your little one, these toys can also impart important skills to your child. Some of the skills you can teach your kids using these toys include:
- Manipulation of buttons, zippers and other fasteners-go for a stuffed animal or plush toy that comes with pieces of clothing that have these fasteners.
- To impart knowledge in colors choose a toy that features many colors.
- To teach responsibility, select a stuffed animal or plush toy that your child can easily wash.
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