Stuffed Animals Aren’t Just for Kids—Adults Can Benefit Too, Experts Say

Max Genecov, a doctoral candidate in clinical psychology at the University of Pennsylvania, is not only a researcher and a father but also a stuffed animal owner.

“I’ve had them since childhood and always enjoyed them,” he shared. Even now, he keeps a plush raccoon from his younger years, crochets stuffed animals for babies in his family, and sometimes uses one as a pillow or for comfort while sleeping.

While it may seem uncommon, is it really?

During the COVID-19 pandemic, stuffed animal sales surged, and in 2024, 21% of plush toy purchases were made by adults over 18, according to Juli Lennett, a US toy industry adviser at Circana, a market research firm.

“Stuffed animals resonated with young adults and adults, offering entertainment, a collectible aspect, and emotional comfort,” Lennett explained.

Recognizing this trend, Build-A-Bear now dedicates a section of its website to adult consumers. A survey conducted by the company revealed that over half of respondents still had a stuffed animal from childhood, and about 40% admitted to sleeping with one.

Dr. Jade Wu, a sleep psychologist and founder of Thrive Sleep Clinic, believes this might be linked to emotional reassurance. “People may be seeking comfort amid uncertainty,” she suggested. For those living alone, a plush toy could provide a sense of companionship.

The Benefits of Stuffed Animals for Adults

Stuffed animals aren’t just for children—they can serve as tools for emotional support at any age.

Dr. Jessica Lamar, a therapist in Seattle, incorporates stuffed animals into therapy sessions with adults processing trauma. Some of her clients create a personalized bear at Build-A-Bear to symbolize their inner child, fostering self-compassion and emotional healing.

But stuffed animals aren’t only for trauma survivors. According to Genecov, plush toys offer warmth, softness, and a means of self-soothing, while Lamar notes they can trigger nostalgia and strengthen emotional ties to loved ones.

“There’s no reason why adults shouldn’t enjoy the same comforting benefits that children do,” Wu said.

Emotional Connection, Not Immaturity

Some may argue that stuffed animals are just for kids, but experts say otherwise.

“A well-adjusted adult can maintain a healthy connection to their childhood,” Lamar explained. “It’s wonderful to acknowledge and honor that part of yourself.”

While an extreme attachment—such as severe distress when separated from a stuffed animal—could indicate an issue, both Lamar and clinical psychologist Dr. Barbara Greenberg emphasize that this is rare. Instead, they believe stuffed animals can be a positive tool for self-regulation, especially for men and boys, who are often discouraged from expressing emotional needs.

Stuffed Animals and Sleep

From an evolutionary standpoint, cuddling a stuffed animal may fulfill a basic human need for comfort and security.

“We evolved to sleep in groups for safety,” Wu explained. “A stuffed animal can serve as a comforting presence, especially for those sleeping alone.”

Throughout life, physical comfort remains important. Babies are swaddled, and even adults often seek warmth and reassurance when resting. Some stuffed animals are weighted, similar to weighted blankets, which research has shown to reduce anxiety and promote relaxation.

Moreover, stuffed animals can serve as a sleep cue, helping the brain associate their presence with rest.

Regardless of how one chooses to keep or use a stuffed animal—whether on display or in bed at night—experts agree they can be a healthy, comforting, and harmless habit.

“If it helps with stress, it’s a far better alternative than taking medication or drinking alcohol,” Greenberg said. “There’s absolutely nothing wrong with it.”

Source:https://edition.cnn.com/2025/03/30/health/adults-sleep-stuffed-animals/index.html