In times of uncertainty, it can be helpful to turn to familiar comforts. Often, the things that comforted you as a child are the same things that can bring you comfort now. That’s why people revisit old kids’ movies and TV shows. And that’s why a lot of adults still have their favorite stuffed animals — because hugging something cozy is perfectly appropriate as an adult, too.
Those childhood favorites with their scratched marble eyes, mottled fur and missing ears can bring a unique kind of comfort. And while there’s no replacing those childhood favorites, there’s nothing wrong with making a new friend (that is, buying a new stuffed animal).
Whether you’re packing a plush for a long business trip or you want company before you go to bed, there are plenty of reasons for adults to keep stuffed animals close by. In fact, there was even an article from The New York Times documenting the phenomenon, with heartfelt stories ranging from a woman whose childhood stuffed sheep was recovered from a house fire to a middle-aged man who talked to stuffed animals as a therapeutic way to get through tough times.
From cuddly critters that support good causes to commemorative plushes from beloved books, there’s plenty of comfort to be found in the best stuffed animals for adults. To help you destress after the long waking nightmare that was the last two years, we’ve picked out some of the best ones.
Whether it’s a sweet and cuddly Valentine’s Day gift or it’s to provide comfort after a breakup, celebrate a new apartment or gift a pillow friend before a long flight, adult stuffed animals make excellent gifts. So check out our choices below and get ready to let go of all that stress.
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1. Meddy Teddy
BEST OVERALL
Who is Meddy Teddy? This yoga-loving teddy bear isn’t just a stuffed animal, he’s also a yoga influencer with his very own Instagram. This all-ages stuffed bear is perfectly posable, and he’s a great toy if you want to introduce your kids to the joys of yoga. He’s also super adorable, which is really all you need from a stuffed animal for adults, kids and everyone in between. Not only is Meddy Teddy made with soft plush fur, but recycled water bottles were also used in the design.
2. YESBEARS Giant Teddy Bear
BEST FOR COUPLES
Alright, so, say you’re looking for the perfect gift to surprise your significant other this year. Don’t worry, we’ve got it. A giant teddy bear is a must-purchase if your loved one loves to snuggle. It’s comically large at a whopping 5-feet tall, but also super cozy to cuddle up with when you’re not there. Just don’t let the teddy fully take over your job as the go-to cuddle buddy. It even comes with an adorable “I love you” pillow.
3. Handmade Alpaca Toy
BEST ETSY FIND
Why is this adorable alpaca one of the best stuffed animals for adults? Because we like it, that’s why. This tiny little friend comes courtesy of Etsy, and it will make the perfect piece of home decor for your bedroom, office or living room.
4. JELLYCAT Medium Amusable Avocado Plush Toy
BEST FOR AVO LOVERS
We all know one. Heck, we all know a few. Avocados are the unintentional fruit of the generation and for good reason — they’re delicious. If you’re looking for a unique gift that your avo lover will get a kick out of, look no further. You’ve found it.
5. World Wildlife Fund Adopt A Bison
SUPPORTS A GOOD CAUSE
This option from the World Wildlife Fund is a great way to make a cuddly friend while also protecting nature. The WWF has plenty of plushes that represent different animals as part of their “Adopt a” charity initiative. For $55, you’ll symbolically adopt a real bison, and you’ll receive a photo, certificate, gift bag and of course, a bison stuffed animal.
6. Sparkle Toots Original Tooting Unicorn Plush
SILLIEST
Who doesn’t fantasize about owning a unicorn? And a unicorn that appreciates tacos? That’s even more magical. This silly stuffed animal for adults makes a great gag gift for that special someone with a sense of humor.
7. Peanuts Snoopy Plush
MOST ICONIC
Your favorite canine as a plush? The answer is yes. You can now carry Snoopy around wherever you go and pretend you’re one of the Peanuts. This makes an excellent gift for any lover that adores Charlie Brown and the gang.
8. Out of Print My Friend Corduroy
BEST CHILDHOOD TOY
Out of Print makes a variety of T-shirts and tote bags that feature the covers of books ranging from modern bestsellers like The Hunger Games series to literary classics like I Know Why The Caged Bird Sings. Corduroy, published in 1968, has been delighting children for generations, and this small stuffed animal is a great way to enjoy this iconic character. Plus, Out of Print donates proceeds to literacy organizations.
9. Chibi Dino T Rex Pillow Plush
MOST KAWAII
It doesn’t get cuter than this chibi dinosaur pillow plush. The term “chibi” is a Japanese slang word meaning to cute-ify otherwise scary things — like t-rexes. This is the ultimate stuffed animal must-have for anyone who loves dinos.
10. Cuddly Llama Rainbow Alpaca Doll
BEST RAINBOW
Who doesn’t love an extra pop of color? This rainbow llama is giving us piñata vibes that we’re kind of in love with. Get this for anyone who needs a fun-loving, colorful cuddle buddy for when you’re not around.
11. Warmies Microwavable French Lavender Scented Plush Frog
CUTEST PLUSH
People generally don’t think of frogs as cuddly, but this fluffy frog may make you rethink that assumption. This baby is microwavable. We said it. Toast him up in the microwave and he will leave feeling warm, cozy and smelling like French lavender. He’s excellent for stress relief and will make your partner feel extra safe.
12. GUND Philbin Teddy Bear
BEST ON A BAD DAY
Times are rough and we all need something big and cuddly to hug every now and then. This teddy bear fits the bill quite nicely, and at 18-inches tall, will be quite the statement piece as well.
13. Sunshinetimes Osaka Blob Seal
BEST FOR A LAUGH
There’s something completely weird and adorable about this big blob of a seal, and that will make you giggle even on the hardest of days.
14. ROYLCO Theo The Therapy Dog
BEST FOR DOG LOVERS
Maybe you really want a puppy and it’s not in the cards right now, but this stuffed therapy dog will play the role of the puppy. Except there’s no need to walk and feed him, making him easily one of the best stuffed animals for dog lovers around.
15. Wild Republic Jumbo Sloth Plush
BEST FOR SLOTH LOVERS
What’s better than a jumbo sloth? For the sloth lover in your life, nothing. While it may seem like a very niche animal to appreciate, trust us, the sloth has a rabid fanbase. These animals are totally wacky, but also adorable in their own strange way.
16. Black Bear Animal Giant Plush Stuffed Body Hug Pillow
BEST CONVERSATION STARTER
Want to really freak out visitors? This giant life-like plush black bear is sure to get noticed and give them a second of fright if they aren’t prepared. This stuffed animal is perfect for a rustic sort of country decor.
17. Gears Out Debra The Angry Beaver
BEST FOR THE FRIEND WITH SOME ATTITUDE
Sure, stuffed animals are meant to be sweet and cozy, but what’s wrong with having a little fun with them? This angry beaver has tons of personality and is a much more valid depiction of our usual mood.
18. Poodle Plush Toy
BEST FOR THE LOVER OF ALL THINGS FRENCH
This pink poodle plush toy is everything, and so stylish. Whether decorating your bed or cuddling as you watch the new season of Emily In Paris, it’s perfect for all occasions.
19. Stuffed Elephant Plush Animal Toy
BEST FOR THE WISE FRIEND
Elephants are known for being very wise, and what’s better than having a stuffed animal to talk to that we can pretend truly understands us? Nothing.
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