Looking for the perfect plush toy that’s as safe as it is snuggly? You’re not alone.

Whether you’re a new parent carefully curating your baby’s first toys or a thoughtful friend shopping for a shower gift, choosing the right plush toy goes beyond cuteness. It’s about safety, softness, and something that will be treasured without putting tiny hands or mouths at risk.

Because let’s face it: babies explore with their senses. They squeeze, chew, tug, and occasionally drool with reckless abandon. That adorable teddy? It better be stitched tight, made of safe materials, and soft enough for delicate skin.

Key Takeaways

• Safety is the top priority when selecting plush toys for babies and toddlers. Look for soft, well-stitched toys made with non-toxic, hypoallergenic materials and no small parts or plastic eyes.

• Newborns (0 –12 months) should only interact with plush toys under supervision. Never place plush toys in a crib or sleep space.

• Toddlers (12 months – 3 years) can safely bond with soft toys that support imaginative play, emotional comfort, and early learning.

• Proper care matters. Regular washing, inspection for loose seams, and rotation of toys help keep plushies safe and clean over time.

• Plush toys are more than gifts—they’re developmental tools that help children self-soothe, play creatively, and feel secure during daily transitions.

Why Safety Comes First with Plush Toys

When you’re shopping for newborns and toddlers, you’re not just picking out a toy. You’re choosing a sleep companion, a stroller buddy, and a source of daily comfort. That means safety needs to be sewn into every seam—literally.

Here’s what every parent or gift buyer should know:

• Babies under 12 months should never sleep with any loose toys or blankets due to suffocation risk.

• Toddlers over 12 months can safely snuggle soft toys if those toys meet certain safety standards.

• Loose parts, button eyes, and cheap stitching are red flags. If it can come off, it can go in a mouth.

What Makes a Plush Toy Safe?

When you pick up a plush toy, ask yourself: Would I feel confident leaving this with a baby or toddler for a minute while I step away?

The safest plush toys share some common traits. They’re soft to the touch, built with durability in mind, and free from small parts that can come loose and end up in a mouth. Look for plush friends that are labeled for newborns or toddlers, meet safety standards like CPSIA and ASTM, and ideally, are machine washable. (Because… well, babies.)

And perhaps most importantly? They feel like something a child will grow into, not out of becoming part of their everyday routine, from car rides to bedtime stories.

Look for these non-negotiables:

• Embroidered features instead of plastic parts.

• Hypoallergenic and non-toxic materials that are gentle on sensitive skin

• Secure stitching with no loose seams or filling exposure

• Washable fabric to withstand daily messes

• Age labeling, like “0+” or “12M+,” which indicates manufacturer testing for that age group

Our Favorite Safe Plush Toys for Babies & Toddlers

For Newborns (0–12 Months): Snuggle-Approved & Peace-of-Mind Safe

World Softest Plush Huggee Small (5”)

Don’t let its petite size fool you—this mini plush is packed with personality and premium softness. Measuring just 5 inches tall, the Huggee Small is perfect for newborn hands and early sensory exploration. It delivers a surprisingly rich, velvety texture that babies instantly respond to, offering a full plush experience in the most compact form.

Ideal for stashing in diaper bags, attaching to strollers, or introducing during tummy time, this tiny treasure becomes a comforting first friend. Parents love knowing it’s made from child-safe, tested materials that meet the highest quality standards. And because of its manageable size, babies can grasp and cuddle without feeling overwhelmed.

Safety Note: The World’s Softest Plush Huggee Small (5") is made from premium, child-friendly materials and appears to meet high safety standards, but due to its small size, it's best used with supervision for newborns. Plush toys under 6 inches may pose a suffocation risk if left in a crib or used during sleep. For newborns, it’s ideal for supervised play, sensory introduction, or stroller companions—not for unsupervised use or sleep. Always follow pediatric guidelines for plush toys and safe sleep.

🧸 You can explore it here: World’s Softest Plush Huggee Small

For Toddlers (12 Months - 3 Years): Built for Big Hugs and Bigger Adventures

1. Large Lushee MoMo Monkey (16”)

MoMo is more than just a monkey, he’s the ultimate toddler companion. Big enough to wrap their arms around, soft enough for bedtime cuddles, and built tough for wild toddler days. His velvety fur is irresistibly snuggly, but his real strength is emotional comfort. MoMo helps toddlers feel brave when they start daycare, sleep in a new bed, or navigate big feelings.

Parents often share how MoMo becomes a constant toted from room to room, tucked into backpacks, and whispered to during quiet moments. If you’re looking for a plush that meets a toddler where they are energetic, imaginative, and sometimes uncertain—MoMo shows up with heart and hugs.

🐵 You can explore it here: Lushee MoMo Monkey

2. White Unicorn Huggee (11”)

This unicorn doesn’t just sparkle with magic, it radiates comfort and gentle adventure. With ultra-soft fur and a dreamy, comforting presence, it’s perfect for toddlers entering the world of imaginative play. The size is ideal for little arms to cuddle, while the embroidered facial features and plush body ensure it’s safe for toddlers still learning how to handle their treasures.

What makes this unicorn special is how it grows with your child. At first, it's a soft bedtime buddy. But soon, it becomes a sidekick on adventures helping your toddler learn empathy, self-soothing, and even storytelling skills.

🦄 You can explore it here: White Unicorn Huggee

Safety Note: At this age, toddlers begin to bond deeply with plush toys, using them for comfort, creativity, and emotional development. The best plush toys are soft, durable, and stitched without small parts—just like those in the World’s Softest Plush collection. These toys are not only cuddly companions but also tools for healthy sleep transitions, language growth, and pretend play. While safe for independent use, it’s always a good idea to supervise early interactions and rotate toys regularly for cleanliness and safety.

🧸 Explore more here: 60+ World Softest Plush

How to Keep Plush Toys Safe Over Time

Safety doesn’t stop at purchase. Plush toys need ongoing TLC to stay hygienic and hazard-free, especially with babies and toddlers.

Here’s how to keep them clean and safe:

• Wash regularly using gentle cycles (or spot-clean if needed)

• Check seams after each wash or rough play—repair or retire if torn

• Avoid long ribbons or strings that could wrap around limbs

• Rotate toys to give each one a break (and keep your child interested!)

Remember: well-loved doesn’t have to mean worn-out. Keeping plush toys fresh helps keep little ones safe.

Gift Buyer’s Cheat Sheet: What to Look For

Buying a plush toy as a gift? Here’s your quick checklist to get it right without worrying about safety.

✔ Labeled for the correct age
✔ Made from soft, non-toxic materials
✔ No hard plastic parts or choking hazards
✔ Washable or easy to clean
✔ Stitched with care, no loose seams
✔ Bonus points: arrives gift-ready with a tag or box

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can my newborn sleep with a plush toy?

No. Even the softest and safest plush toys should not be placed in a crib with a newborn. Babies under 12 months are at risk of suffocation if soft objects are left in their sleep space. However, plush toys can still play a role in supervised moments—like tummy time, stroller rides, or cuddling in a parent’s arms. They're perfect for soothing and bonding, as long as you’re there to watch.

2. What makes a plush toy safe for toddlers?

A safe plush toy for toddlers is one that’s made to last through play, snuggles, and the occasional tug-of-war. It should be sewn with care, have embroidered details instead of plastic pieces, and be made from soft, hypoallergenic materials. At this stage, toddlers begin using plush toys to build emotional connections and creative stories. So durability and safety really matter.

3. How often should I wash plush toys?

Wash plush toys every 1–2 weeks, or immediately after illness or heavy use. Use a gentle cycle with mild detergent, and always air dry or dry on low heat. Check for damaged seams after each wash.

4. What’s a good plush toy to give as a baby shower or toddler birthday gift?

A great gift plush toy is one that balances softness, safety, and sentimental value. Choose something age-appropriate, made from quality materials, and easy to care for. It doesn’t need to be the biggest toy on the shelf. Sometimes, the simplest plush becomes the most loved. Whether you’re gifting for a baby shower, first birthday, or just because, a thoughtfully chosen plush can bring comfort and joy every single day.

Final Thoughts: A Soft Start to Big Adventures

Choosing the right plush toy for a little one isn’t just about softness or cuteness—it’s about trust. It’s about knowing that the toy you place in their hands will bring comfort, inspire imagination, and stay by their side through some of childhood’s biggest firsts.

Whether you’re shopping for your baby, your grandchild, or a friend’s new arrival, you’re not just giving a gift, you’re giving a hug they can hold. And that’s something truly special.