Top 5 things to consider when choosing a soft toy

(a guide for finding ‘the one’)

Choosing the right soft toy sounds like an easy task.

But it’s not about finding the “perfect” one —
and there isn’t a checklist that guarantees a forever friend.

Sometimes, it’s simply the one they’re drawn to…
the one they pick up again and again.

But there are a few things that can make a difference.

1. Fabric choice — softness that feels reassuring

A comfort toy is something that’s held close — often, helping children feel safe and settled. So the way it feels matters.

There are a few different fabric options you’ll come across:

Polyester plush is super soft and holds its shape and colour well over time.
It’s easy to wash, dries quickly, and is generally more resistant to stains.

Cotton plush has natural breathable qualities, making it a perfect option for children with sensitive skin. It also helps regulate temperature and feels comfortable all year round. Cotton fibres are also a more sustainable choice.

Linen is gentle on delicate skin and naturally strong, making it ideal for little ones and rougher play. It’s made from flax, so it’s also biodegradable and environmentally friendly.

What’s inside your soft toy matters too.

Polyester filling is lightweight, soft, and helps the toy hold its shape over time — even after lots of washing.
Recycled polyester offers the same benefits, with the added advantage of being made from recycled materials.

Some soft toys can also include weighted pellets in the base or limbs.
These can help the toy sit more naturally and add a comforting, slightly weighted feel.

2. Safe for everyday use

Because comfort toys are used so often — held, slept with, carried everywhere — safety matters.

For younger children especially, look for:

no small or removable parts
embroidered features rather than glued or plastic pieces
strong stitching that won’t come loose over time

Even a well-loved toy can become worn, so starting with something well made makes a difference.

It’s also worth checking that your soft toy has been tested to recognised safety standards —
this information is usually found on the label.

(We’ve shared more on this in our safety guide.)

3. Made to last

A forever friend is rarely kept perfect.

They’re carried everywhere…
washed and rewashed… and VERY well loved

Well-made toys tend to have:

strong seams (often reinforced in high-stress areas like necks and limbs)
durable fabrics or high-quality natural fibres like cotton, wool, or linen
embroidered details instead of glued or buttoned features

It’s not about keeping them looking new —it’s about making sure they stick around

4. The right size to carry

They are the ones that can be tucked under an arm, fit into a bag and are easy for little fingers to hold.

Smaller toys are often better suited to newborns, while small to medium sizes are perfect for everyday adventures —
tea parties, dress-ups, and trips out and about.

Larger toys can feel especially comforting at home.

5. Something they connect with

Often, it’s not the one you would choose — it’s the one they choose. The one they keep coming back to and the one they won’t quite let go of.

Consider the child’s interests, where they live, what toys that have already. Do they have a collection of teddy bears and want to expand into dogs? Do they love all things quirky, and want to add a chicken or seagull to their collection? Is it baby’s first stuffie and you would prefer a traditional teddy bear or rabbit.

Clothing and accessories can add a different dimension to the personality of the stuffed toy and can help to foster your child's imagination and encourage cognitive development through pretend play.