Research has shown that 43% of adults own, and actively engage with plush stuffed animals. A large number of those adults, especially millennials, also admit to snuggling with a plushie when they go to sleep. So, why are so many adults still attached to plush animals that most would associate with children? For some, who are cuddling a toy from their childhood, it is a sentimental item that offers them a sense of security. However, for others, it is because they feel they get a better night’s sleep with their fuzzy pal beside them - and science is on their side!

Let’s take a closer look at how plush stuffed animals could improve the quality of your sleep.

Plush Stuffed Animals Can Ease Anxiety

Since the COVID-19 pandemic, an increasing number of people are suffering from anxiety. Around 20% of American adults have been diagnosed with anxiety and often find themselves suffering from disrupted sleep as a result. In January 2022, the term ‘sleep aid’ hit a five-year peak on Google Search and sales of over-the-counter sleep aids have quadrupled in the last 5 years. With insomnia seemingly running rampant, adults are seeking out effective ways to get back into a healthy sleep schedule. Those who don’t want to use medication tend to turn to items that represent comfort and security. Sales of weighted blankets and weighted plush stuffed animals have been steadily increasing as anxious adults attempt to soothe themselves at bedtime. The science behind these comfort items is that they replicate the sensation of a hug which can often reduce anxiety and trigger relaxation. That’s where plush stuffed animals come in. If the sensation of a hug can soothe anxiety and eliminate insomnia, doesn’t it make sense to want something to cuddle with when you lay down to go to sleep? Plush stuffed animals are primarily marketed to kids, but research shows that adults and children can both benefit from hugging a plushie as it makes them feel calm and more secure at bedtime.

It is Common For Adults to Sleep With Plush Stuffed Animals

Stuffed animal retailer Build-A-Bear says that 25% of the plush stuffed animals they sell are for someone who is a teenager or older and that figure is rising all the time. So much so that they now have a dedicated category on their website with stuffed animals designed for adults. The retailer also conducted research in conjunction with Atomik Research which revealed that 40% of adults sleep with plush stuffed animals. As children, comfort items like our teddy bears become transitional objects that offer comfort and security when a parent or guardian is unavailable - for example, when alone in bed at night. As we move into adulthood picking up those beloved plush stuffed animals that once gave us so much comfort will trigger memories of that comfort from childhood. Adults are not immune to needing a transitional object, so in times of emotional uncertainty, it is no surprise we reach for the plush stuffed animals that once provided comfort. A big part of what triggers these memories is the smell! Subconsciously, your teddy bear carries familiar smells that trigger memories of feeling safe and comfortable in bed. This could be smelled from childhood or simply from last night when you had a comfortable sleep!

Caring for Your Plush Stuffed Animals

One downside to having your plush stuffed animals in your bed night after night is that they can be a magnet for allergens. If you have asthma, allergies, or respiratory issues then your beloved companion could actually be triggering attacks. However, with just a little TLC you can make sure they stay clean and allergen-free. This, of course, applies to your children’s plush stuffed animals too! Here are a few care tips to help you care for your furry pals.

1. Check the care label to see if your plushie is machine washable. If it is, you will want to use a delicate setting and cold water. It is also advisable that you place it inside a mesh bag or pillowcase.
2. If it cannot be machine washed, you can hand wash it in your sink with cool water and a tablespoon of laundry detergent. Gently scrub it with your hands to loosen surface dirt. You can then rinse it in clean water and roll it in a towel to remove excess water.
3. It is best to air dry your stuffed animals rather than putting them in the dryer. It is important to make sure it is completely dry before putting it back in your bed.
4. If you have a delicate toy that has a great deal of sentimental value, such as one from your childhood, you may prefer to only give it a gentle surface clean with a damp cloth or soft toothbrush.

Do I Need to Stop Taking My Stuffed Animal to Bed?

As we have discussed above, if you are an adult who sleeps with a plushie, you are by no means alone! It is very common. However, there is still some stigma attached to grown-ups with toys, so you may be wondering if it is time for you to stop taking your stuffed animals to bed with you. There is no black-and-white answer to this question. If you find comfort in your companion then there is no real reason for you to put it away. After all, we use pillows and blankets to be more comfortable, so why can’t we use stuffed animals? The only time there would be any genuine concern would be if you find that you rely on the toy to sleep and would be unable to fall asleep without it. This is when it can become an issue that needs to be addressed, but if it is just for comfort, then keep on enjoying those hugs!

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Adopt a New Friend Today!

American Pet Rescues is working towards the goal of educating adults and children about the value of animal rescue. Through the sale of our quality plush stuffed animals, each based on a real animal rescue story, we hope to promote awareness of pet adoption while also funding the opening of an animal adoption center in the Knoxville area where we can continue educating others and also provide access to affordable veterinary care.

Visit www.americanpetrescues.org or call 865-800-3697 for more information.