As someone who has personally experienced the comfort and benefits of weighted stuffed animals, I can confidently say that they are a game-changer when it comes to relaxation and sensory support.
These specialized plush companions are designed with added weight to provide a gentle, soothing pressure that promotes a sense of calm and well-being.
Read on as we share the best weighted stuffed animals in the market today and the benefits they offer.
Top 15 Weighted Stuffed Animals You Need To Hug Now
1. Character Weighted Plush Throw Pillow
Like weighted blankets, I observed that stuffed animals with extra pounds offer deep pressure to the body, giving a child a sense of security and calming effect that reduces anxiety [1].
Here's Angry Birds 15 Inch Plush Squeeze Pillow - Red Bird if you want a character plush throw pillow to snuggle and cuddle.
The Angry Birds 15-inch plush squeeze pillow captures the fiery spirit of the Red Bird.
Made from soft and durable materials, it's perfect for hugging and squeezing. With vibrant red colors and accurate details, this cuddly pillow is a must-have for fans of the game or anyone looking for a cozy companion.
Learn how to make a weighted stuffed animal here.
2. Elephant Weighted Stuffed Animal
Based on a 2016 survey conducted on parents, 3 out of 10 children with ADHD suffer from anxiety [2].
As an alternative, you can check out Teddykompaniet Big Ears Plush | Elephant as your travel buddy.
The Teddykompaniet Big Ears Plush Elephant is an adorable and huggable companion.
Made by Teddykompaniet, a renowned brand, it features big floppy ears and a cute trunk.
Crafted from high-quality plush materials, this elephant plush is perfect for snuggling and comforting children of all ages.
3. Mickey Mouse Weighted Plush
The Mickey Mouse Weighted Plush is the perfect one to get for Disney fans.
I got one for myself because it is made with silica beads, and the exterior is made from polyester.
If you want to show your love for Mickey Mouse, here's Disney Squishmallow 5 Inch Plush | Mickey Mouse.
The Disney Squishmallow 5-inch Plush Mickey Mouse is a lovable and squishy toy.
With a soft and squeezable texture, this plush is perfect for cuddling or as a cute collectible for Disney fans of all ages.
Check out the best stuffed animal brands here.
4. Intelex Warmies Marshmallow Bear
Looking for weighted teddy bears? Then, the Intelex Warmies Marshmallow Bear will surely keep you warm while relieving your anxiety with the lavender scent it offers.
This adorable plushie is great for calming nerves as it’s filled with grains and dried lavender, which is ideal for kids and adults.
As a substitute, the Teddykompaniet Teddy Cream Medium Plush Bear from Toynk is a classic and cuddly companion.
With its soft cream-colored fur and friendly expression, this bear is perfect for hugging and snuggling.
It's crafted with high-quality materials, making it a delightful gift or keepsake for children and teddy bear enthusiasts.
5. Huggaroo Weighted Lap Pad
The Hungaroo Weighted Lap Pad is another plushie to consider as it may help ease anxiety. This stuffed animal works like a weighted blanket with a weight of 3.6 pounds.
If you want to show off your love for kangaroos, we have another recommendation for you. With its unique design and vibrant colors, Les Deglingos Ptipotos Allezou the Kangaroo Plush | Brown stands out.
Made from soft and huggable materials, it's perfect for playtime or as a decorative piece. This adorable kangaroo brings a touch of whimsy to any child's collection.
Read: What's the Biggest Stuffed Animal in the World?
6. “Eddie” Weighted Microwavable Stuffed Animal
For parents looking for microwave-safe plush toys, the “Eddie” Weighted Stuffed Animal got you covered. This toy features a cuddly and charming teddy-wearing overall.
It can be put in the microwave or freezer, perfect for hot and cold therapies. Eddie is a lavender-scented plushie with a weight of 1 pound.
7. Sloth Warmies Wrap
If you are in desperate need of a neck hug or want to reduce stress, the Sloth Warmies Wrap is the perfect stuffed animal to cuddle with while relaxing.
It measures 13 inches tall and is filled with flaxseed for extra weight. Added bonus: it has dried lavender to help relieve anxiety and promote relaxation.
Another cute sloth you can check out is the Teddykompaniet 18 Inch Plush | Sloth, a delightful and cuddly friend.
With its adorable sloth design and huggable size, this plush toy brings a sense of warmth and comfort.
Crafted with attention to detail and high-quality materials, it's perfect for snuggling or as a charming addition to any plush collection.
8. Intelex Cozy Therapeutic Wrap
The Intelex Cozy Therapeutic Wrap is the ideal plushie for all ages and passed all the U.S. safety standards.
It’s filled with all-natural grain and lavender scented to promote relaxation while providing comfort as weighted blankets do.
9. Llama Hugs
If in search of an extra soft stuffed animal, the Llama Hugs will surely offer loads of fun to your children and even for you.
Its weight is around 1 pound, and I was impressed with the lavender scent that gives comfort, warmth, and soothing effects, making it easier to sleep.
With its cute earmuffs and soft pink fur, Llama W/ Earmuffs Alpaca 7" Plush Pink exudes charm and can be a cute alternative.
Measuring 7 inches, it's the perfect size for cuddling or as a cute decorative piece. Bring a touch of whimsy to your collection with this delightful plush llama.
10. Wild Baby Weighted Plush Pal
The Wild Baby Weighted Plush Pal is the perfect one for younger children as it weighs less than a pound.
It has a removable therapy pack that is microwavable and can be frozen.
If you don't want something with therapy pack, you can go for Prissy and Pop Pop Mini Pig 11" Stuffed Animal Plush.
Measuring 11 inches, it's the perfect size for snuggling or displaying as a delightful addition to any pig-loving collection.
11. Bobcat Warmies
Want some kitty plushies that only weigh a few pounds? Then, the Bobcat Warmies are a great addition to your collection of huggable cats.
Its weight is only 2 pounds, and is scented with real lavender for a soothing cuddling experience.
The Grumpy Cat 9" Plush is another option for Bobcat Warmies because it captures the iconic grumpy expression of the internet-famous feline.
We like it because it has realistic details and compact size that brings the grumpy charm of Grumpy Cat to life.
It's perfect for both fans of the internet sensation and those who appreciate a touch of grumpiness in their plush collection.
12. Sensory4U Panda Bear
The Sensory4U Panda is the ideal teddy for kids with sensory disorders, like autism, poor concentration, anxiety, stress, and ADHD.
This plushie is also for adults, featuring the likeness of a panda with 4 pounds of removable glass beads.
As an alternative from Toynk, we have here We Bare Bears Mini Plush 3" Panda.
The We Bare Bears Mini Plush 3" Panda is an adorable and pocket-sized companion.
Inspired by the popular animated series, this mini plush captures the cute and lovable panda character.
With its soft texture and small size, it's perfect for on-the-go cuddles or as a fun addition to your We Bare Bears collection.
13. Weighted Teddy Bear
The Weighted Teddy Bear is your kid's new calming buddy with extra weight and soft stuffing, ideal for those with mood disorders and attention seekers.
It weighs around 3 pounds and measures 14 inches tall, the perfect travel companion that will provide comfort and security.
As a substitute for weighted teddy bears, we have here a Philbin Teddy Bear 18-inch Plush in Chocolate Brown.
Crafted with attention to detail, this plush bear features soft and luxurious fur. We find its adorable face and cuddly size perfect for snuggling or as a classic gift for teddy bear enthusiasts of all ages.
14. Fox Weight Mate
If you love collecting puppy plushies, the Fox Weight Mate will deliver. This unique plushie is not your ordinary toy as it’s worn as a sash, making it really portable.
It's perfect for adults and older kids and weighs around 5.5 pounds, offering a peppermint and lavender scent to make your day soothing.
Minecraft 8 Inch Character Plush | Fox is a fox alternative from Toynk. The Minecraft 8-inch Character Plush Fox brings the beloved video game character to life.
I like that it has a pixelated design and soft plush material, which is adorable and ideal for Minecraft fans.
Measuring 8 inches, it's compact and suitable for display or imaginative play. Join the Minecraft world with this charming plush fox companion.
15. Husky Warmies Junior
Husky Warmies is a plushie is designed for targeting painful areas in your body since it is microwavable and can be chilled for hot and cold therapies.
But if you are looking for cute plushies from Toynk, you can checkout our this cute dog.
With its fluffy fur and adorable expression, a Boo-World's Cutest Dog 6" Plush is a must-have for dog lovers.
Measuring 6 inches, it's the perfect size for snuggling or showcasing as a delightful collectible.
What Are Weighted Stuffed Animals?
Weighted stuffed animals are the improved version of the weighted blanket.
These are stuffed animals or pillows with extra weight that are made from soft material for comfort and cuddling.
In addition, weighted stuffed animals can contain different material stuffing to make up for the weight and are usually designed with longer arms for hugging and a sense of security.
They also come in different sizes and weights, so it’s ideal for all ages.
What Is The Point Of A Weighted Stuffed Animal?
People who are often stressed and anxious use varying relief remedies, such as a weighted blanket that offers pressure therapy to promote calmness in the entire body [3].
Since a weighted stuffed animal and blanket both provide pressure, finding the perfect size and weight can help ease tension in the body and anxiety and promote better sleep.
In short, a weighted stuffed animal serves as therapy and a companion for some.
How to Shop for Weighted Stuffed Animals
When shopping for weighted stuffed animals, I pay attention on the fabric type, materials used, and weight. Here's a simple guide that may help you:
- Fabric Type: Look for soft, durable fabrics like fleece or minky. Avoid rough materials that could irritate skin or tear easily.
- Weight: Choose a weight that's appropriate for the age and size of the recipient. A good rule of thumb that I practice is 10% of body weight of the recipient.
- Materials: I usually shop for stuffed animals with poly-pellets. The best material for a weighted stuffed animal is one that's safe, non-toxic, and washable.
- Added Features: Consider additional features like heatable or freezable inserts for added comfort and sensory benefits. Also, make sure to check if these features are safe for the intended user.
FAQs
How heavy should a weighted plush be?
Most weighted stuffed animals weigh around 1 to 5 pounds, which is designed based on varying uses.
Adults can pick the weight based on their preference or needs, like if they need hot and cold therapies to soothe the pain.
Meanwhile, it’s ideal for parents to choose light plushies for kids that they can easily carry around.
Are weighted stuffed animals good?
Yes, they are. Weighted stuffed animals provide varying health benefits, so it’s perfect for all ages. The warmth and company it offers are also beneficial for some people.
However, it is essential to pick the right weighted stuffed animal. Thus, you should consider the following factors, like how heavy you want it to be and what fabric you prefer.
Lastly, it should be easy to clean, microwavable, and can be chilled for therapies.
Do weighted stuffed animals help with ADHD?
Yes, they can help with ADHD. Weighted blankets are usually recommended to treat varying conditions, such as ADHD, insomnia, and anxiety disorders [4].
Since weighted stuffed animals also apply the same pressure therapy as weighted blankets, it can certainly aid in treating ADHD.
Pressure therapy offers consistent pressure that results in mental stillness and calmness in patients with ADHD, switching the nervous system from sympathetic to parasympathetic.
Can you wash weighted stuffed animals?
Yes, you can. There are plenty of machine-washable weighted stuffed animals and cleaning them wouldn’t be troublesome.
So when picking a plushie, ensure that its weighted insert is removable.
On the other hand, some plushie can only be spot clean and air dry since it contains heavy fabric or fillings. Thus, submerging it in the water is not recommended.
In Summary
Weighted stuffed animals has shown me the incredible benefits they offer in terms of relaxation and sensory support.
These plush companions provide a comforting embrace that promotes calmness, reduces anxiety, and improves sleep.
With their soft textures and gentle pressure, they create a sense of security and well-being for both children and adults.
So if you’re having problems sleeping or looking for ways to relieve anxiety, taking home a weighted stuffed animal will certainly soothe and calm your senses.
If you’re looking for the perfect bedtime buddy for your kids or simply for the best weighted stuffed animals to give as a gift, go for the Itty Bitty Boo 9-Inch Stuffed Animal Unicorn.
References:
- https://www.cnet.com/health/mental/3-reasons-why-you-should-use-a-weighted-stuffed-animal-for-anxiety/
- https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/adhd/data.html
- https://www.healthline.com/health/anxiety/do-weighted-blankets-work
- https://psychcentral.com/adhd/weighted-blanket-adhd
