when can babies sleep with a stuffed animal?

when can babies sleep with a stuffed animal?

Introduction

Many parents love the cute sight of their children sleeping with stuffed toys in their arms. In addition to allowing babies to sleep more relaxed, plush toys can also provide emotional support and help babies transition to independent sleep.
However, safety must always come first before putting it in the crib.

So, when can babies safely sleep with a stuffed animal?
The short answer: After 12 months of age. Below, we explain why.

Is It Safe for Babies to Sleep With a Stuffed Animal?

According to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), the safest sleep environment for infants under 12 months is a completely empty crib.
This means no stuffed animals, no pillows, no blankets, no crib bumpers, and no soft bedding.

Why Babies Should Not Sleep With Stuffed Animals Before 1 Year Old

  • Suffocation risk: A plush toy can cover a baby’s mouth and nose, and infants cannot reliably push it away.
  • Increased SIDS risk: Soft items increase the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome.
  • Strangulation hazards: Ribbons, tags, or accessories can be dangerous.

What a Safe Sleep Space Should Look Like (for Babies Under 12 Months)

  • Always place baby on their back to sleep.
  • Keep the crib empty and uncluttered — no blankets, toys, pillows or loose bedding.
  • Use only a tight-fitting crib sheet.
  • Keep the room slightly cool, not overheated.
  • No positioners, wedges, or crib bumpers.
  • If your baby falls asleep in a car safety seat, stroller, swing, baby carrier or baby sling, you should move them to a solid and flat sleeping surface as soon as possible.
  • Swaddling (tightly wrapping the baby in a thin blanket) can help soothe a crying baby. However, if you wrap your baby in swaddling clothes before putting them to sleep on their back, you should stop wrapping them immediately once they start trying to roll over. Do not use weighted swaddling clothes.
  • Parents who cannot be next to the baby at all times may use a VT31 Baby Monitor to check on sleep environment in real time.

When Can Babies Sleep With a Stuffed Animal?

Most babies can safely sleep with a stuffed animal after their first birthday.

Why is 12 months the key milestone?

  • By this age, babies can roll both ways.
  • They have better neck and head control.
  • Their airway is more developed and less easily obstructed.
  • They can move away from soft objects if needed.

Once your child becomes a toddler, a comfort object—often called a lovey—can help promote independent sleep.

Signs Your Baby May Be Ready for a Comfort Object

Your child may be ready to introduce a small lovey around 12 months+ if you notice:

  • They enjoy grabbing and holding soft objects.
  • Separation anxiety appears during bedtime or nap time.
  • They can roll independently in both directions.
  • They are able to push away or move light objects from their face.

What Kind of Stuffed Animal Is Safe for Toddlers?

When your toddler is ready, choose a toy designed specifically for safe sleep:

  • Lightweight and soft
  • No buttons, beads, sequins, or detachable pieces
  • Breathable fabric
  • No hard eyes, noses, or internal plastic structures
  • Hypoallergenic and machine-washable
  • Not too big or too small (avoid oversized plush toys)
  • Consider buying two identical loveys in case one gets lost

FAQs

Can a 6-month-old sleep with a stuffed animal?

No. Babies this age cannot safely sleep with any soft objects. Their motor skills are not ready, and the risk of suffocation is high.

Can a 1-year-old sleep with a lovey?

Yes — most toddlers can safely sleep with a small, safe comfort object starting around 12 months.

Are there alternatives before age 1?

Yes. Establish a consistent bedtime routine (dim lights, reading, gentle rocking) to help your baby self-soothe without toys.

Conclusion

Stuffed animals can be a wonderful comfort item for toddlers, but they are not safe for babies under 12 months.
After your child turns one, you can gradually introduce a small, safe lovey—while still monitoring their sleep environment.

And whenever you’re not right next to your baby, using a VT31 Baby Monitor can help you check on sleep safety and ensure the crib stays clear and uncluttered.

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