Weighted stuffed animals are a great way to bring comfort into your home. These cozy companions can help with sleep and improve the mental health of children and adults with autism, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, and more. In this complete guide to weighted stuffed animals, you’ll learn about their psychological benefits and how to choose the right huggable gift for yourself or someone who could use emotional support.
As an autistic adult, I’ve learned you’re never too old to have a soft stuffed animal to hug! I have put together this guide based on research studies and my own experiences, and I hope it will help other neurodivergent people, their parents, and their loved ones.
Weighted stuffed animals are filled with glass or plastic poly pellets to make them heavy. Natural materials such as rice or flax seeds may also be used. Some can be heated in the microwave or frozen to provide heat or cold therapy; if that’s what you’re looking for, check out our article about Warmies weighted stuffed animals. The weighted filling provides soothing pressure that can alleviate a variety of mental health struggles including stress, trouble sleeping, autism meltdowns, ADHD overstimulation, and more.
Can a weighted stuffed animal help with sleep?
Weighted stuffed animals improve sleep quality by providing gentle pressure, similar to how weighted blankets work. They can help you feel calm and relaxed at bedtime. This makes them the perfect gift for nighttime cuddles!
Can a weighted stuffed animal help with anxiety?
Weighted stuffed animals offer therapeutic benefits for those struggling with anxiety or the aftermath of trauma. Deep pressure stimulation can reduce stress, as evidenced by multiple studies, including one where adults reported a 63% reduction in their anxiety from using a weighted blanket. If you are anxious, weighted products are well worth the small investment and can supplement treatments such as therapy and medication. If you get nighttime panic attacks or PTSD flashbacks, they can make going to bed a lot less scary.
Can a weighted stuffed animal help with autism?
Products such as weighted blankets, lap pads, wearable vests, and stuffed toys are go-to coping tools for children and adults on the autism spectrum for good reason — they work! The famous autistic professor and advocate Temple Grandin has researched this topic extensively and even designed a “hug machine” to address her sensory needs.
People with autism and other developmental disabilities often struggle with sensory processing disorder. Our brains do not process sound, sight, and touch in the same way as neurotypical people. We are prone to misophonia and sensory overload; sounds and sensations that others can tolerate can trigger an autism meltdown. Deep pressure stimulation helps us with sensory self-regulation by providing proprioceptive input.
Deep pressure therapy can be especially helpful for people whose disabilities make it difficult for them to communicate their feelings. A study found that deep pressure has immediate calming effects on children and young adults who have autism with a co-occurring severe intellectual disability. Many autistic people with intellectual disabilities and high support needs struggle with insomnia, which in turn impacts their caregivers, so giving them a weighted plush to hug at night can greatly improve a family’s quality of life.
These tips will help you and/or your child stay safe, get the most out of using weighted stuffed animals, and select the right snuggle buddy for your needs.
Are weighted toys safe for babies?
Weighted stuffed animals are not safe for infants and toddlers under age 2, as they can become a suffocation hazard if the baby does not have the strength or physical ability to push the item away from their face. Infants should always sleep on their backs in a crib with tightly fitted bedding and no plush toys or other items.
Are weighted toys safe for young children?
For young children over age 2, weighted products should be used with caution and supervision. Weighted stuffed animals should not exceed 10% of a child’s body weight. Parents, if your child has developmental delays, physical disabilities, and/or receives early intervention services, consult with their occupational therapist, physical therapist, and/or doctor to ensure they can safely use and free themselves from under a weighted blanket or heavy plush toy.
Before each use, check to make sure the stitching is secure so it won’t come apart. Check for loose eyes and other potential choking hazards. I recommend buying weighted stuffed animals that are machine washable or have a removable insert so you can wash the soft plush exterior. Spot clean only items aren’t a good choice for kids.
Are weighted stuffed animals good for adults?
Of course they are! You’re never too old to hug a stuffie in bed at night. They fulfill a universal human need for soothing pressure. If somebody gives you a hard time about it, that says a lot more about them than you.
How do I choose the right weight for my needs or my child’s needs?
Weighted stuffed animals typically range from 1 to 5 pounds. For kids, parents should choose a stuffed animal they can easily pick up and carry without assistance. If you’re an adult, as a starting point, consider whether you prefer gentle pressure or a strong bear hug. Consider your own weight and any physical limitations that could make a heavier plushie difficult to carry or use.
It’s often best to start off with a lighter weight and work your way up as needed. If you find that your insomnia, anxiety and/or sensory overload persist, you may need a heavier stuffed animal. On the other hand, if too much pressure makes you anxious or you wake up feeling overheated, you may need lighter weighted products. If you’re really not sure where to start, I recommend getting a stuffed animal with a removable insert that’s on the lighter side. Then you can add weight if needed.
What other factors should I consider before buying a weighted plush?
If you or your kid has sensory sensitivities, read about fabric texture and zoom in on photos to make sure the toy is soft enough to provide comfort. Most neurodivergent people hate the sensation of clothing tags touching our skin, so take a picture of the washing instructions and then cut off the tag before use.
Weighted Stuffed Animals We Recommend
I have many weighted stuffed animals of different brands and prices piled on my bed and couch, plus some cute weighted pillows, all of which I’ve recommended below. They make great gifts to honor your neurodivergent self-care needs or for a kid or friend.
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Classic Weighted Plush Toys
Looking for weighted stuffed animals with classic themes? You’ll find a bear, puppy, dinosaur, and more to ease anxiety and calm meltdowns. These can be well-suited for ages 3 and up.
Durable& Soft Materials: This squishy dog plush is made of high quality plush and cotton. the comfortable fabric is skin friendly, you can close it to your face. not easily rip, Fine workmanship make this lovely dog plushie durable enough to withstand thousands of hugs.
Exquisite Craftsmanship: Our seal plush is not easy to tear, It's well stitched. so it took a bit of gentle fluffing to get it back to shape, but it just feels good to hug.
Just the Right Size: Our seal stuffed animals plush 23", the pellets are centered in the seal’s abdomen, this moderate size gives you a seal plush experience.
Plush Size: Our bear stuffed animals plush is 19inch 1.8lbs.
Cute Appearance: Brown head and body with white around the mouth paired to bring out the look of a brown bear stuffed animals, the cozy brown bear color makes it very cute and can be used as a pillow or plush toy.
CALMING COMPANION: Fun and Function’s weighted stuffed animals will be your child’s new best, calm-down friend! With added weight & soft texture this stuffed animal is perfect for sensory seekers or those with mood & attention disorders
PERSONALIZATION SECTION IS FOR CUSTOMIZING THE FABRIC SELECTION ONLY NOT FOR EMBROIDERY
Extra Large Animals with Extra weight to heal the hearts of those suffering from the loss ...
Our weighted plush animals come in a variety of weights and sizes.
They are hand stuffed with virgin hypoallergenic recycled fiber and hypoallergenic glass beads. The weight is ...
These weighted stuffed animals will appeal to your child — or your inner child. Disney fans will love their line of autism-friendly plushes from popular movies including The Lion King and Lilo and Stitch. I have a Stitch because I find his moods so relatable! I also have a Moon Bunny — I love her size and adorable face.
Bring home the magic of Disney with the adorable Disney Classics Weighted Plush friends. Weighing three pounds, these timeless characters have a sweet stylization and feature a soft, stretchable fabric. Stitch fans will love snuggling with this plush at home or on-the-go.
At Plupiapio, quality is our top priority. We're committed to creating safe and durable toys that will provide your child with joy and companionship for years to come. Order your dinosaur stuffed animal today and bring the wonders of the prehistoric world into your child's life!
❤ Unevenly Distributed Weights: To provide the more realisic "hugging back" feeling, in addition to the weight added in abdomen, Uoozii weighted forelegs and hind legs for the weighted stuffed animals as well.
COMFORT AND SUPPORT - The weighted plush design of our bunny provides comfort and support, making it a perfect companion for bedtime or relaxation time.
RELAX SENSORY ISSUES - The plush sensory pillow provides a variety of sensory input that can help children & adults with sensory processing issues.
Hugs You Back: Moon Pals Bo plushie harnesses the power of Deep Pressure Stimulation with its signature design.. Bo measures 22” long x 16” wide. Includes 1 x boxed Bo Moon Pal with a free book.
Dynamic Weighted Arms: Moon Pal’s arms are designed with individually weighted compartments that form perfectly around your shoulders and neck to provide dynamic weighted pressure that feels like a real hug.
Cute and Kawaii Weighted Stuffed Animals for Teens and Adults
These cute and kawaii stuffed animals come in different weight options and make ideal sleep pals for kids, teens, and older. Cats that are also pickles? Why not!
[PERFECT WEIGHT] - After testing different weights for our product, our team has determined that 5 lbs provides the best sensory experience. Lighter products don’t provide the same deep-pressure sensation, and heavier products may be uncomfortable. Snuggillows are in that Goldilocks range that provides just the right pressure to promote relaxation and restfulness.
Cats are scared of pickles, but pickles just want love. Welcome to the world of Cats vs Pickles where lovable but misunderstood pickles are in hopeless pursuit of colorful cats. Cats vs Pickles are silly and soft and so fun to collect! Which are you? Team Cat or Team Pickle?
Cats are scared of pickles, but pickles just want love; Welcome to the world of Cats vs Pickles where lovable but misunderstood pickles are in hopeless pursuit of colorful cats; Cats vs Pickles are silly and soft and so fun to collect! Which are you? Team Cat or Team Pickle?
PERSONALIZATION SECTION IS FOR CUSTOMIZING THE FABRIC SELECTION ONLY NOT FOR EMBROIDERY
Cozy Weighted Unicorn: An adorable 3-5 lb weighted unicornmade out of the softest Minky ...
If you need to axolotl questions about weighted stuffed animals before you buy, we’ve goat a lot of answers! If you’re bored of the usual teddy bears and puppies, a weighted toy from this section will be just what you’re looking for to sleep well at night or match your neurodivergent special interest.
★ A Dream for Kids and Adults: The Axion Blue stuffed sharks are the ultimate plushie for a good snuggle! Soft, weighted, and super cute, this stuffed animal is like nothing else you’ve seen before.
"This lovable plush is designed after the axolotl, an endangered salamander native to central Mexico. Available in multiple colors. The realistic axolotl plush provides a sense of ...
PERSONALIZATION SECTION IS FOR CUSTOMIZING THE FABRIC SELECTION ONLY NOT FOR EMBROIDERY
Cozy Weighted Owl: An adorable 3-5 lb weighted Owl made out of the softest Minky fabric. ...
This weighted plush is customizable from .5 lbs to 1.5 lbs. The texture of the fur is soft and fluffy.
Weighted stuffed animals provide calming and grounding Deep Pressure ...
PERSONALIZATION SECTION IS FOR CUSTOMIZING THE FABRIC SELECTION ONLY NOT FOR EMBROIDERY
Cozy Weighted spider: 3-5 lb weighted spider made out of the softest Minky fabric. Each ...
Weighted approx 16” long Opossum plush
((Pictured is a dark grey, white, black, and light pink combination ))
Made with soft minky and great for fidgeting
Lots of color ...
Sloths have their own section because they are one of my special interests, so I’m featuring several here and I hope you’ll love them as much as I do! If you have trouble sleeping at night, they’re the inspiration you need.
⚡ SENSORY ADHD WEIGHTED PLUSHIE- May relieve stress, comfort, ease boredom and stay joyful with our weighted soft stuffed animal, which is expertly crafted with a soft feel, adorable appearance and cute bear design to help provide unlimited fun and brighten up your days!
SOOTHING RELIEF: Hugimals are a research-backed therapeutic stress relief tool disguised as a cuddly plush friend. Developed with doctors & therapists to lower stress and anxiety and increase calm in kids, teens, and adults.
Weighted for Calming- Our cute plushies sloth Salomon makes the perfect calming toys for relaxation. 2 and 1/2 lbs of unscented ceramic stones sit in the belly providing children a more grounded feeling when cuddling him. This weighted heating pad stuffed sloth would be a great addition to any calming corner, classroom, or sloth loving child's toy collection. Sloth gifts are loved by all.
Where is the line between a weighted stuffed animal and a weighted plush pillow? I find it tricky to decide, but if it’s a pillow with a face, you’ll find it here. I like to use a lap pad at my desk, or put it over my head and shoulders to help prevent an autism meltdown when I’m not at home because weighted blankets are too big and heavy to carry in public. A weighted pillow may be preferred by some neurodivergent adults to use in professional settings. They may also aid in sleep better than plushies.
[Super Cute Kitten Pillow] These long cat plush pillow features 3 kinds of emoji as smiling, dazing and winking, which imitates human face expression to bring a carefree feeling when you hug them. The cat plushie could be as an auxiliary long pillow for sleeping as well, since the fillings of the pillow will gently cradle your head and neck.
“Dream” the mixed breed weighted dog lap pad is so fluffy and soft! She is made with blue and purple tie dye minky luxe fabric and weighted at 5lbs with plastic or glass beads. ...
Our 17.5” long super soft weighted bear lap pad has a strawberry theme with a bubblegum pink minky body and strawberry pattern ears. She is weighted at 10lbs with glass bead ...
You can support a small business or even get a custom handmade weighted stuffed animal from these designers. I have a Mothman and it wraps around my chest perfectly. Maybe cryptid hugs aren’t for everyone, but I bet lots of our autistic and ADHD community members will love them.
I’ve featured items from three neurodivergent business owners below. You can also check out their stores directly: The Moth Mama, Auticraft, and Aleximals.
Hi I'm Mothman, the Emotional Support Cryptid! Weighted plush friends are designed to bring you comfort and calm feelings of restlessness, anxiety and overstimulation.
☆ ABOUT ☆ ...
Hi I'm Luna, the Emotional Support Moth! Weighted plush friends are designed to bring you comfort and calm feelings of restlessness, anxiety and overstimulation.
☆ ABOUT ☆
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XL egg fidgets! 7” 1lb weighted egg fidgets that are perfect for people who just can’t seem to make fancy looking fried eggs…..like me. But hey, these are pretty cute.
Each ...
NOW BIGGER AND BETTER!
This delightful sting ray has so many options! So soft! So squishy! So cute!
Choose your top and bottom colors from the options shown in the photo. Be ...
This weighted plush is customizable from .5 lbs to 2 lbs. The texture of the fur is soft and fluffy.
Weighted stuffed animals provide calming and grounding Deep Pressure ...
Weighted 28” long Loch Ness (Nessie) plush
Approximately 3 pounds!
Made with soft minky and great for fidgeting
Lots of color options shown in photos! Please be aware, in my ...
Weighted stuffed animals may be small, but they can make a big difference in our mental health. If you give them a chance, these snuggly pals will surely become your new best friend in no time!
Hey I'm Olivia and I'm a proud Autistic woman. My special interests are cats, stim toys, and electronic music! I love to write and help other Autistic adults find ways to enjoy life in this LOUD world!
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