We researched the best stuffed animals on the market, considering the size, quality, and recommended age of each. The ultimate top choice will vary depending on your recipient, but we love the TOMY Pokemon XY Pikachu Plush because of the franchise’s longtime popularity, plus the super soft quality and easy portability for taking on the go. Here are the stuffed animals that will quickly become new favorites. Whether your child is just getting into the franchise or a happens to be a teen looking for a Pokemon piece for their bedroom, this plush works for various ages and will grow with your child. Customers say it’s cute, and the quality is good. There are no hard plastic pieces that could hurt a child, which is another plus. The quality and price also make it an excellent collector’s item. Game on! Price at time of publish: $120 Made from faux fur, they’re soft and snuggly. They come in three sizes: small (12 inches high), medium (18 inches high) and jumbo (30.5 inches high). You can get one or a whole litter. The small is okay for all ages, while the medium and jumbo are recommended for ages 2 and up and 3 and up, respectively. Whether they have a real pup of their own or not, one of these is sure to be a constant companion. Price at time of publish: $49 Made of soft fabric with realistic details and arms long enough to give your kid a hug, it’s a sweet, unique friend they can add to their collection. Kids and adults alike love this quirky stuffed animal. Price at time of publish: $15 It’s suitable for babies from birth and up and is seven inches tall. One of these (or a whole litter) makes the purr-fect gift for cat lovers both young and old. Price at time of publish: $17 Complete with heart-stealing droopy eyes, and is simple, sweet, and soft and also comes in pink. This plush pachyderm is affordable too, and it’s perfect for a gift or any special occasion. Price at time of publish: $17 Parents say it’s well made, and some even say that their kids love it so much that they order a backup in case their kids’ foxy friend gets lost. Designed for kids 3 years and up, it has big potential for playtime fun. It’s also one of the most fun ways to measure a growing child’s height. Price at time of publish: $120 Reviewers gave this stuffed animal glowing reviews, and they made note of the accompanying board books that can be purchased with the pig. Price at time of publish: $25 Super soft, the squid has lifelike features, including eight arms, two tentacles, and bulging eyes. It even has a great beak to complete the realistic feel. It’s a great way to add a pop of personality to a nursery or other ocean-themed bedroom. It lets kids explore the depths of their imaginations during playtime. Price at time of publish: $29

Quality

Stuffed animals can go through a lot. They’re tossed around, chewed on, and stomped all over, so they need to be made well so they last. Look for sturdy stitches, especially those that connect ears and legs to the body. The noses and eyes should be sewn on well for safety. Quality stuffed animals are filled with cotton, wool, or polyester. “The high-end collectible bears are made of mohair, made from the hair of Angora goats,” says toy designer and founder of Winey Bears Repair Sally Winey. “That’s going to give you your strongest, durable stuffed animal, also the highest in monetary value.” These last for up to 100 years, according to Winey, who still repairs them at her shop. These are great as collectibles, or heirlooms to pass down to your family, she recommends.

Type

Stuffed animals can be the classic characters you know or unique ones that you could never think up. You may know right away what type of stuffed animal you want to get. That makes the search much easier because you can narrow it down immediately. If you’re not sure which one would be best, take a minute to think of the person who will be receiving it. Think about their favorite animals, colors, and activities. That will give you a pretty good clue for what they might like. Different types of stuffed animals will also have different feels. “Some people like them very squishy. Some people like them very firm. Some like them very soft,” says Winey. Each will have a different feel for hugging and cuddling so you have to find the one that brings the most joy and comfort.

All stuffed animals will come with a recommended age. Keep within that age range to keep everyone safe and happy. For infants, Winey recommends buying two of every stuffed animals. This way, if the family dog gets to it or if it get dirty or ripped in any way, there is a backup for a toy they have loved for so long.

Why Trust The Spruce?

This article was written by Julie Evans, a writer who has been researching home products for The Spruce since 2017. She has extensive experience covering products for children, including toys and gifts. Additional research for this article comes from Stacy Fisher, a long-time writer who specializes in crafting, DIYs, and other home topics. Winey advises against storing in plastic bags or in hot places like an attic or anywhere with direct sunlight. “In direct sunlight, they’ll fade and dry out,” she shares. “Different materials clean differently,” according to Winey. Not all stuffed animals are meant to be washed in a machine and even fewer are meant to go in the dryer. “Just like clothing, they could shrink or bleed,” she warns. “If you just want to dust them off, put them in a pillowcase on a no-heat setting in the dryer,” she recommends. Otherwise, they could risk melting. For specific advice, contact someone like Winey who does stuffed animal repair for a living. Expert advice was provided by toy designer and founder of Winey Bears Repair Sally Winey.