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In the world of plush toys, every detail matters to bring life to these cherished companions. At Plushthis, we are experts in designing and manufacturing premium stuffed animals. We are committed to the artistry and integrity of our creations, which is reflected in our meticulous selection of materials. We strive to ensure that each plushie is not only captivating but also durable and able to withstand the test of time and affection. As experts in this field, we understand that the choice of fabric is essential to the comfort, durability, and emotional connection of the plushie. In this guide, we will share our professional insights and practical advice to help you make informed choices when selecting the best fabrics for your plushies. Whether you are a seasoned collector or a new admirer, our goal is to guide you on your plushie journey.Our Criteria for the Best Fabrics
This article gives you an overview of the best fabrics for stuffed animals. Choosing a fabric for a plush toy is an essential part of the toy-making process. This is because it affects the texture, quality, ease of cleaning, softness, and safety of the plush toy. As a DTC (direct-to-customer) brand from one of the world's leading toy factories, PlushThis has strict selection criteria for its materials. Whether you want to learn more about our plush toys or plan to make your own stuffed animal, this article can help you.
Texture
The texture of the plush toy fabric can impact how the toy feels to the touch.
For example, stuffed animals made of cotton are very soft to the touch and are very popular with children. The denim one is a little rough to the touch. However, they are very popular with parents because of their ease of care and cleaning.
Softness
The softness of the fabric affects the softness and comfort of the plush toy. Of course, it also affects the texture of a stuffed animal.
Small children, especially babies, often prefer soft fabrics, which give them a sense of security. They can also play with the stuffed animals themselves and fall asleep quietly with them when their parents are not around.
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Durability
The durability of the plush toy can be affected by the type of fabric used. Synthetic materials like polyester or acrylic tend to be more durable than natural materials like cotton or wool.
However, natural fibers may be preferred by some due to their breathability and eco-friendliness.
Safety
The safety of the plush toy is an important consideration when choosing fabric. It's important to choose a fabric that is non-toxic and meets safety standards for children's toys if it's intended for a child.
To tell if a plush toy is safe to use, you need to check the care tag on the plush toy, the instructions (if any) or the manufacturer's instructions on the website.
In addition, to find the best fabric for you, you can search the internet or seek advice from the manufacturer of toys or fabrics.
10 Best Fabrics for Plushies
There are a number of fabrics commonly used for plush production. Here you will find ten of the best fabrics for plushies.
Faux rabbit fur
Faux rabbit fur is a type of synthetic fiber that mimics the texture and warmth of real rabbit fur. It is commonly made using materials like polyester or acrylic. The fabric has a plush and soft feel, much like natural rabbit fur, and is available in a range of colors and patterns, including animal prints.
Scope of application
The softness of faux rabbit fur and its close resemblance to real rabbit fur makes it ideal for use in realistic stuffed animals, which gives them a tactile feel close to that of real animals.
Example: realistic polar bear stuffed toy made by faux rabbit fur
Pros
- More affordable than real rabbit fur
- Not require any animals to be harmed
- Easy to care for
- More durable compared with real rabbit fur
- A variety of colors and patterns
Cons
- With slight hair loss
- Requires hand washing & avoid machine washing
- Without the same level of warmth and softness as real rabbit fur
- High demands on sewing techniques
Care and Cleaning Guide
Hand wash gently with mild detergent. Avoid wringing. Dry flat, and comb fur to restore fluffiness.
PV Fleece
PV fleece，South Korea velvet or Plush, is one of the most common materials used to make plushies. It is a type of synthetic fabric made from terylene.
PV fleece has a soft, fluffy texture with a raised surface. Also, it is widely used for toys, clothing and furniture.
Some types of PV fleece are made with recycled materials, making them an eco-friendly option.
Scope of application
It is because of the smooth and soft feel of PV fleece that it is used on a very large scale as a fabric for stuffed animals. It is usually applied to short-haired animals and soft stuffed animals, such as some teddy bears.
Example: gaint beack bear made by PV fleece
Pros
- Fine and soft texture
- Not prone to shrinking or stretching out of shape
- Non-allergenic
- Wide range of colours
- Lightweight & convenient for travel
Cons
- Slight discoloration on first use (common due to the dyeing process)
- Less soft than natural fibers like wool or cashmere
- Some types of PV fleece may contribute to plastic pollution
Care and Cleaning Guide
Machine washable in cold water. Tumble dry on low heat. Avoid bleach and ironing.
Faux cashmere
Faux cashmere is a synthetic fabric designed to mimic cashmere wool's luxury, softness and warmth.
It has a layer of fleece similar to that found on lambs and is a little rough to the touch. It is commonly used in clothing, accessories, and home decor.
Scope of application
The texture of wool is of course more suitable for sheep, goats, black-nosed sheep and other types of stuffed animals!
Example: Valais Blacknose Sheep made by faux cashmere
Pros
- Smooth texture and feels very soft to the touch
- Good breathability and drapability
- The toys made are very comfortable
- High temperature shrinkage treatment, not easily deformed and wrinkled.
- High fibre strength and abrasion resistance.
- Resistant to alkali, chemicals, insects and mildew.
Cons
- Not have the same level of softness and warmth as real cashmere
- Not so durable as real cashmere
- Less used in high-end fashion than real cashmere
- Some low-quality faux cashmere may cause environmental pollution
Care and Cleaning Guide
Hand wash in cold water with mild soap. Do not wring. Lay flat to air dry.
Crystal super soft fabric
Crystal super soft fabric is a type of faux fabric used in stuffed toys. It is a popular and comfortable choice for those looking for a plush, comfortable fabric. It is easy to care for, durable and hypoallergenic, making it a great choice for a wide range of applications.
Scope of application
Due to the soft and short-haired nature of Crystal super soft fabric, it is especially suitable for stuffed animals with high shape requirements, and it can take into account both the reproduction of the product design and the soft texture in the hand to ensure a perfect user experience. Both ornamental and practical.
Example: Jack-O Lantern Halloween plush made by crystal super soft fabric
Pros
- Very comfortable to wear or use
- Easy to care for
- Can be machine washed and dried
- Durable
- Hypoallergenic
Cons
- Not so breathability as natural fibers
- Durability depends on quality
Care and Cleaning Guide
Machine wash in cold water. Tumble dry low. Avoid high heat and harsh chemicals.
Denim
Denim is a popular classic fabric, known for its durability, versatility and unique fading properties. It is characterized by its blue color and diagonal pattern of threads.
Denims can be produced in a variety of weights, from lightweight summer clothing to heavyweight workwear and upholstery.
Scope of application
denim as a fabric for stuffed animals offers a unique blend of durability, aesthetic appeal, and practicality, making it suitable for creating toys that are both fun and functional.
Example: Teddy bear made by Denim
Pros
- Very durable
- Versatile
- Easy to care for
- Can be machine washed and dried
Cons
- Some people may find that denim is too rough or stiff
- May lose colour during washing
- Not the most environmentally friendly fabric
Care and Cleaning Guide
Machine wash cold, separately. Tumble dry low. Avoid bleach and ironing.
Velvet
Velvet is a soft, plush fabric with a unique texture and look. It is a luxurious and versatile fabric that can add texture and interest to many different types of clothing and home decor.
Scope of application
Velvet stuffed animals are ideally suited for decorative purposes in homes or offices due to their elegant appearance. They are also popular as special occasion gifts, such as for birthdays, anniversaries, or holidays. In addition, velvet plushies are often sought after by collectors and those looking for a more upscale and decorative toy.
Pros
- Very soft and luxurious in texture
- Versatile
- Often associated with elegance and sophistication
- Able to keep warm
Cons
- Can be difficult to clean and maintain
- More expensive than some other fabrics
- More delicate than other fabric
Care and Cleaning Guide
Spot clean or dry clean only. Do not machine wash. Avoid direct heat.
Cotton
There are two types of cotton: knitted cotton and pure cotton.
Knitted cotton can be spun into yarn or thread. It is comfortable and warm. Knitted cotton is one of the most widely used fabrics for children's clothing.
Pure cotton is a fabric made from 100% cotton. It has better sanitation, warmth and breathability.
The former is one of the most common materials used for plushies. The latter is mainly used in the category of Organic Stuffed Animals.
Scope of application
Cotton is ideal for creating everyday stuffed animals for children, educational toys, and sensory toys. It's also a good choice for eco-conscious consumers who prefer natural over synthetic materials. Cotton toys can be used in various settings, from homes to daycare centers, given their safety, durability, and ease of maintenance.
Example: snow man made by cotton
Pros
- Breathable and absorbs moisture
- Easy to care for
- Can be machine washed and dried
- Affordable for most people
- Hypoallergenic
Cons
- May shrink or wrinkle after washing
- May lose its shape over time
Care and Cleaning Guide
Machine washable in warm water. Tumble dry medium. Iron on low if needed.
Acrylic fiber
Acrylic fiber is a synthetic fiber made from polyacrylonitrile. It can mimic the look and feel of natural fibres such as wool. At the same time, it costs less than natural fibres. So, acrylic fiber is popular with manufacturers of clothing and stuffed animals.
Scope of application
Due to its durability and easy maintenance, acrylic fiber is well-suited for everyday toys for children, promotional items, and novelty toys. It's also a good choice for outdoor toys or items that may be subjected to more wear and tear.
Example: Large pink bear plush made by acrylic fiber
Pros
- Lightweight and soft
- Resistant to wrinkles and mildew
- In a wide range of colors and patterns
- Dries quickly
- Easy to care for
- Resistance to sunlight
Cons
- Less breathable than natural fibers
- Can pill or fuzz over time with repeated wear and washing
- Its production may have negative environmental impacts
Care and Cleaning Guide
Machine wash cold. Tumble dry on low setting. Avoid ironing and direct heat.
Tips:
To know more about how to wash plush toys with various materials, you may like: How to Clean Stuffed Animals for Different Materials [Full Guide].
Rose bud fur
Rose bud fur, also known as rosebud chenille or rosebud fleece, is a type of fabric that is made from polyester fibers. With its soft fabric and rose-like shape, it creates a unique style of plush toy.
Scope of application
Because of its luxurious texture, rosebud fur is commonly used in high-quality decorative stuffed animals, special occasion gifts, and collectibles. It is especially suitable for creating plush toys meant for gentle play or display, rather than rough, everyday use.
Pros
- Easy to care for
- Warm and cozy
- Lightweight and comfortable
- Durable
Cons
- Less breathable than natural fibers
- Can pill or fuzz over time with repeated wear and washing
Care and Cleaning Guide
Hand wash gently or spot clean. Dry flat in shade. Do not bleach.
Cool-fabric
Cool fabrics is a type of textile designed to regulate body temperature and wick moisture away from the skin. This fabric conducts heat better than normal fabrics and gives a cooler feel. It is typically made from synthetic fibers such as polyester or nylon.
Scope of application
Cool-fabric is ideal for creating stuffed animals designed for active children or for use in warmer environments. It’s also well-suited for therapeutic purposes, such as providing comfort to individuals who may have temperature sensitivity.
Pros
- Slow heat absorption, fast heat removal
- Safe, non-irritating
- Lightweight and breathable
- Flexible, not easily deformed
- Durable
Cons
- Has a synthetic feel or odor
- Less suitable for cold weather
- More expensive than other types of fabrics
Care and Cleaning Guide
Machine wash in cold water. Tumble dry low. Avoid fabric softeners and bleach.
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FAQ
Why can't true animal fur be used to make plush toys?
Firstly, the use of animal fur for commercial purposes can be controversial.
Secondly, animal hides and skins can have a strong odour, smell unpleasant and even cause allergic reactions.
Finally, some people are allergic to animal dander and fur, which may threaten their lives.
For this reason, manufacturers use synthetic materials rather than using animal fur. These materials are softer, easier to clean and more durable. They also do
not pose the same ethical issues or allergy risks as animal fur.
How to choose fabric for you?
Everyone has their own personal preferences when it comes to the look and feel of fabrics. You may consider its texture, softness, quality and safety etc.
The choice of fabric will depend on the type of plush toy being made. For example, plush toys for children should be made of soft and allergy-friendly materials.
For children under 3 years old, use skin-friendly fabrics that meet baby safety standards.
How to make a plush toy？
You can find out more about this by reading "How to make a plush toy by yourself". Or you can take part in social media campaign of PlushThis. Maybe your design will be produced.
Conclusion
Everyone has their preferred type of fabric. It's important to point out that no fabric is 'perfect' and no fabric is 'useless'. This article introduced several types of natural or faux fabric used in stuffed toys. After reading, you will see that every fabric has its pros and cons. We recommend considering the feel, softness, durability, and safety of the fabric when shopping for it.
We hope you enjoy shopping for plush toys from PlushThis. Our plush toys are designed by a team of professionals and manufactured by experienced manufacturers. Additionally, our products meet the safety standards of Europe, the USA, and Canada, making them a great playmate for children and an excellent gift idea.
Thank you for reading, and we hope you find this article helpful.
We hope you enjoy shopping for plush toys from PlushThis. Our plush toys are designed by a team of professionals and manufactured by experienced manufacturers. Additionally, our products meet the safety standards of Europe, the USA, and Canada, making them a great playmate for children and an excellent gift idea.
Thank you for reading, and we hope you find this article helpful.