Think stuffed animals are just for kids? Think again. Experts say adults can benefit from cuddling a plush companion, which might even help you sleep better.
More and more grown-ups are embracing stuffed animals, and for good reason. They’re cozy, comforting, and can ease anxiety at bedtime. During the pandemic, plush toy sales soared—21% of all plush sold in 2024 went to adults over 18. Companies like Build-A-Bear even offer soft toys specifically for grown-ups because comfort has no age limit.
Sleep experts say cuddling a stuffed animal at night can signal safety and relaxation, helping you wind down and fall asleep. It’s a healthy way to self-soothe, especially if you live alone or are going through stress or uncertainty. Weighted stuffed animals, in particular, offer gentle pressure, similar to weighted blankets, which have been shown to calm the nervous system.
Some therapists even use plush toys in trauma work. Creating or keeping a stuffed animal as a symbol of your inner child can help with healing and emotional connection. But you don’t need a reason beyond comfort—nostalgia, softness, and a sense of security are reason enough.
And no, it’s not childish. “It’s actually a sign of emotional health,” says therapist Dr. Jessica Lamar. Holding on to comforting items from childhood doesn’t make you immature—it shows you’re in touch with your past and know how to care for yourself.
If snuggling a stuffed animal helps you relax, sleep better, or feel a little more at peace, go for it. It’s a zero-risk, judgment-free way to improve your well-being. As psychologist Dr. Barbara Greenberg says, “It hurts no one—and it might just help you sleep.”
