Organic cotton stuffed animals: why choose organic?

An organic cotton plush is made from cotton grown without synthetic pesticides, chemical fertilizers or genetically modified seeds. That makes it a natural, soft and breathable option for something your baby hugs, smells and puts in his mouth every day. Plus, organic farming is better for the soil and for the people who grow cotton.

What is organic cotton?

Conventional cotton is one of the crops in which the most pesticides and chemical fertilizers are used. Organic cotton is grown in another way:

• no synthetic pesticides or chemical fertilizers: farmers work with natural methods, such as crop rotation and compost;
• without genetically modified seeds;
• with attention to soil and water: Healthy soil retains water better.

If something is truly organic, you see it by a certification seal. The best-known international seal for textiles is GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard). It not only takes into account the cultivation, but also the processing of the fabric, such as dyeing and finishing. If the label only says “cotton” or “natural,” that still says little.

Why an organic cotton stuffed animal for your baby?

Natural and pure

A baby hugs, sucks and (later) sleeps with his stuffed animal. So it’s reassuring to know what it’s made of. Because organic cotton is grown without synthetic pesticides, you choose a material that has been kept as natural as possible.

Gentle on the skin

Babies have sensitive skin. Organic cotton stuffed animals and doudous are soft by nature. This is why many parents of babies with sensitive skin consciously choose organic cotton. If your child has eczema or an allergy, ask your pediatrician for advice on materials.

Breathable and comfortable

Cotton is a natural fiber that allows air to pass through and absorbs moisture. That’s why a cotton stuffed animal is pleasant to the touch, both in summer and winter.

Environmentally friendly

The production of organic cotton takes more into account nature. No synthetic pesticides reach the soil or water, and farmers work with methods that keep the soil healthy. If you choose an organic cotton plush, you contribute to a more sustainable way of producing.

Ethical

Organic cotton is often produced according to stricter standards, which also take into account fair working conditions. Stamps such as GOTS establish requirements in this regard. This way you contribute to better treatment of the people who participate in production.

To enjoy it for a long time

A well-made plush toy made of durable cotton lasts a long time. Many stuffed animals become a constant companion and continue to be used for years, sometimes even by a little sibling. Therefore, choose a well-finished plush toy, with firm seams.

Organic cotton or conventional plush: what’s the difference?

	Organic cotton	Conventional cotton	Synthetic plush (polyester)
Cultivation	No synthetic pesticides or chemical fertilizers	Often with pesticides and chemical fertilizers	Made from petroleum
Touch	Soft, breathable	Soft, breathable	Soft, less breathable
stamp	E.g. GOTS	Not applicable	Not applicable
Environment	Less impact on the crop	Greater impact on the crop	Not biodegradable

Any stuffed animal sold as a toy in the EU must meet the same safety requirements. Organic cotton is mostly about how the material is made.

What to look for when buying a stuffed animal for your baby?

In addition to the material, there are a few important things in any baby plush:

• CE marking and age: Choose a soft toy suitable from 0 months that meets European toy safety requirements (EN 71).
• embroidered eyes: Embroidered details cannot come loose, unlike buttons or plastic eyes.
• Firm seams: Check regularly that no seams open and that the filling cannot leak out.
• No ribbons or long laces: because of the risk of getting tangled.
• Size: A small stuffed animal or doudou is easy for little hands to hold.
• Washable: a stuffed animal goes everywhere and gets dirty. Check if it can be washed in the washing machine.

A stuffed animal in the crib: from when?

Even a soft, natural stuffed animal should not be in a small baby’s crib. For safe sleep, a clear crib without loose stuffed animals, pillows or blankets is recommended. Use the stuffed animal when he is awake and under supervision. When can a stuffed animal or doudou go in the crib and why children become so attached to them, you can read it in doudous as a transitional object.

How do you wash an organic cotton stuffed animal?

• Always follow washing etiquette.
• Wash it at low temperature with a mild detergent, if you want in a washing bag.
• There is no need for fabric softener; cotton is still soft without it.
• Let the stuffed animal air dry well, so that the stuffing dries as well.
• Does your child have a favourite stuffed animal? Consider having a second one just like it, so you can change it when you have to go to the washing machine.

A nice gift for a newborn

An organic cotton stuffed animal is a gift for newborn very popular: small, personal and something a child sometimes keeps for years. Combine it, for example, with other soft baby toys; you will find more ideas in baby sensory toys.

Toys of this item

• organic cotton stuffed animals
• doudous

Frequently asked questions

What advantage does an organic cotton plush have?

Organic cotton is grown without synthetic pesticides, chemical fertilizers or genetically modified seeds. It’s soft, breathable and natural, which is nice for an object your baby often holds and puts in his or her mouth. Organic farming is also better for the environment and for farmers.

Is an organic cotton plush better for sensitive skin?

Organic cotton is soft and natural, which is why many parents of babies with sensitive skin choose it. If your child has eczema or any allergies, consult your pediatrician.

How do I know if a stuffed animal is really organic cotton?

Look for a certification seal, such as GOTS. This seal establishes requirements for the cultivation and processing of the tissue. Words like “natural” or “eco” without a seal say little.

Can an organic cotton stuffed animal be in my baby’s crib?

No, an organic stuffed animal should not be in a small baby’s crib either. A clear crib is recommended for safe sleep. Use the stuffed animal when he is awake and under supervision.

How do I wash an organic cotton stuffed animal?

Follow the washing label and wash at low temperature with a mild detergent, without fabric softener. Then, let the stuffed animal air dry well.