You’ve likely had at least one stuffed animal in your life growing up. Heck, you may still have a few of your favorites today! If you’re considering getting your child a new plushie friend, however, you need to know for sure that the plushie is safe for your child.
What are some important factors to consider when picking plushies for your child?
If you want to know what makes a plushie safe, you’re in luck. Here are some things to think about when wandering through the toy aisle.
Materials
The materials that plushies are made of are important! The fabric should be flame-retardant or flame resistant for your child’s safety. Any furry materials should be short, smooth, and the toys should be tightly woven together.
You should also pay attention to the eyes and additional details on the stuffie. Avoid button eyes or anything that is just glued onto the face or body; these can easily come off and could be a choking hazard for your child.
Finally, make sure that the stuffed animal is made with non-toxic materials. Your child is likely to hug, kiss, and cuddle their stuffies. You need to make sure that they aren’t breathing in anything harmful!
Machine Washable
Kids are messy- no matter how much they love their stuffies, they are going to get dirty. Whether their picnic got a little too real or the beloved toy fell in a mud bath, you’re going to need to be able to wash the muck away.
Always check to make sure the plushies are machine washable, like this cow stuffed animal. This will give you an easier time and ensure that you can keep the stuffie safe and clean for your child!
What to Watch Out For
There are some important details that you should keep an eye out for when buying plushies. Check for any loose strings or dangling yarn. Young children could choke themselves with any long strings; you should avoid purchasing items covered with yarn, ribbons, or thread for toddlers and infants.
Some stuffies may come with little items that they hold. While these look cute, with enough force, a child may be able to rip it free from the plushy’s grip. If you do want to buy a toy that comes with an accessory like this, make sure it’s well secured to the toy.
Finally, keep an eye out for recalled toys. These toys have been proven to be unsafe for children in one way or another. If you realize that your child has a recalled stuffie, remove and replace it right away!
Keep Your Kids Safe with Cuddly Plushies
Now that you know what to look for when shopping for plushies, you can rest easy knowing that the new friend you picked out isn’t a danger to your child. Remember to always look over every detail of the stuffie before adding it to your cart!
Do you know anyone who is searching for the perfect gift for their child?
Be sure to share this article with your family and friends to help them find a child-safe toy for their next celebration!
