Benefits of Sleeping with Stuffed Animals: Enhancing Your Bedtime Routine - Amerisleep (2024)

Have you ever found yourself snuggling up with a stuffed animal at bedtime? It turns out you’re not alone.

Sleeping with stuffed animals as an adult is a common practice that can contribute to a more comfortable and relaxing bedtime routine. These cuddly companions offer a sense of comfort and security, making them the perfect addition to your sleep environment.

So why exactly do so many adults sleep with stuffed animals? Whether you have a childhood teddy bear or a favorite new addition to your stuffed animal collection, incorporating them into your bedtime routine may just make a noticeable difference in the quality of your sleep.

In this article, we’ll explore the benefits of cuddling up with your favorite plush friend and how they can provide a sense of relaxation and emotional support.

Childhood Teddy Bears and Adult Sleep

One 2017 survey of 2000 adults in America found that more than half still had their childhood teddy bears. And it’s not uncommon for adults like these to still sleep with the same teddy bears or stuffed animals from their childhood.

These comfort objects continue to hold a significant role in our lives, providing a sense of security and companionship as we drift off to sleep or even when we’re awake. The reminder of childhood innocence that teddy bears represent can even push adults to adopt more “pro-social” behavior when they’re in the room with one.

Why are teddy bears good for adults, whether they’re from childhood or not? Teddy bears, along with other stuffed animals, can be beneficial for adults as they provide a sense of comfort, reducestress,Verified SourceCenters for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)The United States’ health protection agency that defends against dangers to health and safety.View sourceand evoke positive emotions. The tactile experience and the association with childhood memories make them effective tools for relaxation and emotional well-being.

Science suggests that snuggling up to our childhood teddy bear can provide comfort and help us fall asleep faster. This is because our brain associates the teddy bear with feelings of safety and security from our childhood, giving us a sense of calm as we face the unknowns of adulthood.

A 2022 study of participants across France observed the importance of an emotional bond and sense of ownership and history in how comforting a teddy bear is. Participants rated the bears they owned and brought to the study as more comforting than any of the stranger bears they encountered.

This is not to say that stranger bears were without any potential for comfort. The bears still could be perceived as comforting if they were visually pleasing or had a nice feel or smell. If you want to sleep with an older stuffed animal that smells a bit musty from storage, consider a refreshing pillow spray or such to give it a more pleasant smell.

So if you’re still sleeping with your childhood teddy bear, be proud! It’s a perfectly normal and healthy part of your bedtime routine that brings comfort and security to the adult world.

Psychological Benefits of Sleeping with Stuffed Animals

If you thought sleeping with a stuffed animal was just for children, think again. Mental health professionals recognize the psychological benefits that these cuddly companions provide adults. They can offer emotional support and help youself-soothe,Verified SourceNational Library of Medicine (NIH)World’s largest medical library, making biomedical data and information more accessible.View sourceespecially during times of stress or anxiety.

Research suggests that act of hugging a stuffed animal can releaseoxytocin,Verified SourceHarvard HealthBlog run by Harvard Medical School offering in-depth guides to better health and articles on medical breakthroughs.View sourceone of the'feel-good' hormonesVerified SourceHarvard HealthBlog run by Harvard Medical School offering in-depth guides to better health and articles on medical breakthroughs.View sourcethat promotes relaxation and reduces stress. Additionally, the familiarity of a beloved stuffed animal can bring back pleasant memories from childhood, providing a sense of comfort and security.

For example, one2022 studyVerified SourceNational Library of Medicine (NIH)World’s largest medical library, making biomedical data and information more accessible.View sourceinvolved a huggable, cushion-like device that simulated breathing mechanically, used to test if it could reduce pre-test anxiety in students. This touch-based device emerged from prototypes simulating various sensations, with the “breathing” cushion identified as the most calming during focus group testing.

The experiment involved 129 volunteers taking a group mathematics test. Those using the breathing cushion showed lower pre-test anxiety than those without.

While your stuffed animal can’t mimic the effect of breathing, hugging it can still have benefits. One2013 studyVerified SourceNational Library of Medicine (NIH)World’s largest medical library, making biomedical data and information more accessible.View sourcefound that hugging a human-shaped cushion decreased cortisol levels. So if you grew up with a cherished stuffed doll, try giving it a hug when you need to calm down.

Anotherstudy from 2017Verified SourceNational Library of Medicine (NIH)World’s largest medical library, making biomedical data and information more accessible.View sourcelooked at how a robotic stuffed animal could improve the mood of dementia patients in nursing homes. While the study found it was more effective than usual care, the study’s conclusion also observed similar benefits from a nonrobotic, simple plush toy.

Easing Anxiety

Sleeping with stuffed animals has psychological benefits that extend beyond childhood, offering a comforting link to positive emotions and memories associated with one’s childhood bedroom. Contrary to negative connotations, these cuddly companions serve as more than just an inanimate object. They can act as a familiar presence, promoting a sense of security and reducing anxiety.

As a 2013 study observed, it’s not just human touch that can soothe us, as research suggests that activities like petting animals, hugging soft things like teddy bears, using weighted blankets,Verified SourceMedline PlusOnline resource offered by the National Library of Medicine and part of the National Institutes of Health.View sourceand experiencing robot touch can help lower stress and anxiety.

If you’re struggling with anxiety or experiencing a particularly stressful time in your life, sleeping with a stuffed animal may be just the emotional support you need. This holds true for people of all ages, even young adults.

The connection with a cherished stuffed animal transcends age. And the act of hugging or simply having it nearby can offer a source of emotional energy and comfort.

Abruptly abandoning or going cold turkey with this natural sleep aid might not be the easiest way to navigate the emotional nuances tied to bedtime routines and relaxation. So don’t let yourself feel pressured by an idea of what it is to be grown up keep you from getting a good night’s sleep.

Consider it a personal haven, much like the comforting memories associated with a visit to the Build-A-Bear Workshop. Don’t be afraid to seek solace and reassurance in these adorable companions, as they can provide a soothing presence during challenging moments.

Weighted Stuffed Animals and Blankets

Weighted stuffed animals, along with weighted blankets, have become a popular choice for individuals seeking a better night’s sleep.

The added weight provides a calming effect, and the benefits of a weighted blanket and stuffed animal include helping reduce anxiety and promoting relaxation.

The weight in these products is evenly distributed, typically using small beads or pellets, to provide gentle pressure on the body. This deep pressure therapy can stimulate the release ofserotoninVerified SourceNational Library of Medicine (NIH)World’s largest medical library, making biomedical data and information more accessible.View sourceanddopamine,Verified SourceNational Library of Medicine (NIH)World’s largest medical library, making biomedical data and information more accessible.View sourcehormones that can promote a sense of calm and well-being.

A weighted stuffed animal or a weighted blanket can be particularly helpful for individuals withsensory processing disordersVerified SourceNational Library of Medicine (NIH)World’s largest medical library, making biomedical data and information more accessible.View sourcesuch asautism,Verified SourceNational Library of Medicine (NIH)World’s largest medical library, making biomedical data and information more accessible.View sourceanxiety,Verified SourceMedline PlusOnline resource offered by the National Library of Medicine and part of the National Institutes of Health.View sourceorinsomnia.Verified SourceNational Library of Medicine (NIH)World’s largest medical library, making biomedical data and information more accessible.View sourceThere is also anecdotal evidence for small weighted stuffed animals being helpful for those who have experienced a miscarriage.

They can also be beneficial for those who simply prefer a cozy and comfortable sleeping environment. However, if you chose a weighted blanket, make sure it’s sized for you and not your bed.

It’s perfectly acceptable to choose a specific stuffed animal or a weighted blanket based on personal preferences and needs, as these items offer a comforting and soothing effect for a more restful sleep. For example, you may want to consider how easy it is to clean a weighted blanket or weighted stuffed animals.

If you’re interested in trying out a weighted stuffed animal or blanket, be sure to choose a product that’s appropriate for your weight and size. Consult with a healthcare professional if you have any underlying medical conditions or concerns that can determine whether or not a weighted blanket is safe for you.

Transitional Objects and Interpersonal Relationships

Transitional objects, such as stuffed animals, can help bridge the gap between childhood memories and adult life, with the idea being that as children grow they will transition away from the object. Sometimes an attachment to an object in adulthood is dysfunctional andextreme,Verified SourceNational Library of Medicine (NIH)World’s largest medical library, making biomedical data and information more accessible.View sourcehowever, it can be healthy and normal to have an emotional attachment to an object and take comfort from it.

Your favorite childhood stuffed animals offer a sense of familiarity and comfort, making them valuable companions to have around. Sleeping with stuffed animals can even contribute to building and maintaining healthy interpersonal relationships.

These cuddly companions can provide a sense of security, relaxation, and emotional support, allowing you to feel more at ease and open around others. Additionally, sharing information about your comfort objects can lead to meaningful conversations and deeper connections with those around you.

So don’t be ashamed to snuggle up with your favorite plush friend. It’s a perfectly normal and harmless practice that can help enhance your personal and social life.

Overcoming Stigma and Embracing Comfort

It’s not uncommon to feel ashamed or embarrassed about sleeping with stuffed animals as an adult. However, it’s essential to recognize that these cuddly companions can provide a sense of security and comfort, especially during times of extreme stress or transition, such as starting a new job.

If you find yourself struggling with the stigma of sleeping with stuffed animals, consider talking to a mental health professional. Group therapy can also be an effective way to connect with others who have similar experiences and learn coping strategies for embracing comfort without judgment.

Remember, there is nothing wrong with seeking comfort in the things that make us feel safe and secure. So go ahead, embrace your stuffed animals, and prioritize your mental health and well-being.

FAQs

Why do adults sleep with stuffed animals?

For many adults, sleeping with stuffed animals goes beyond nostalgia. It’s a choice rooted in the desire for emotional well-being. The familiar presence of these cuddly companions not only aids in falling asleep faster but also contributes to a sense of security, creating a bedtime ritual that offers comfort and a touch of whimsy amid the demands of adult life.

Is it normal for adults to be attached to stuffed animals?

Yes, it’s perfectly normal for adults to be attached to stuffed animals. Many find emotional comfort and a sense of nostalgia in these objects. It’s a personal preference, and people may use them for relaxation, stress relief, or to create a feeling of companionship.

What is the benefit of sleeping with a childhood teddy bear?

Sleeping with a childhood teddy bear can have a calming effect and bring back comforting memories. The familiar presence of a beloved stuffed animal can help adults relax and fall asleep faster and more easily. It can provide emotional support and help adults self-soothe, particularly during times of stress or anxiety. The soft and familiar presence of a stuffed companion can create a sense of calm and comfort.

Are weighted stuffed animals and blankets good sleep aids for adults?

The soothing effect of weighted stuffed animals and blankets extends beyond physical relaxation. The added weight can stimulate the release of neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine, fostering a deeper sense of calm. Incorporating these sleep aids into bedtime routines not only enhances sleep quality but also offers a comforting solution for adults seeking a holistic approach to managing stress and anxiety.

Does sleeping with stuffed animals affect interpersonal relationships?

Sleeping with stuffed animals can contribute to building and maintaining healthy interpersonal relationships. These cuddly companions can serve as transitional objects and bridge childhood memories with adult life, fostering a sense of connectedness and emotional bonding. Sharing these cherished companions adds playfulness to relationships, creating shared experiences that deepen connections.

If you feel your stuffed animal is interfering with your interpersonal relationships, such as hoarding that affects sleep and other areas of life, speak with a trusted medical professional about ways to address any underlying issues.

What is the opinion of professionals on sleeping with stuffed animals?

Clinical psychologists, registered social workers, and licensed marriage and family therapists recognize the importance of comfort objects like stuffed animals in human development. They understand that these objects can provide emotional support and serve as a source of comfort and security.

Mental health professionals often advocate for their use as valuable tools that promote emotional well-being and contribute to overall mental resilience. However, it is important to understand that an attachment to an object can be functional or dysfunctional. A mental health professional can help you better understand how that might apply to your personal circ*mstances.

Can sleeping with a stuffed animal be helpful during times of extreme stress or transition?

Yes, sleeping with a stuffed animal can be particularly helpful during extreme stress or transition, such as starting a new job or going through a challenging period of grief. The presence of a cuddly companion can provide a sense of comfort and familiarity, helping individuals cope with their emotions and find solace.

It is perfectly normal for adults to sleep with stuffed animals if it comforts them and enhances their bedtime routine. Many adults still find solace in the companionship and softness of their childhood teddy bears or other stuffed toys.

Can stuffed animals help with loneliness?

Stuffed animals can indeed help alleviate feelings of loneliness. Their presence provides a sense of companionship and comfort. Engaging with a stuffed animal, whether through hugging or simply having it nearby, can create a positive and reassuring atmosphere, particularly during times of solitude.

Conclusion

Now that you’ve learned about the benefits of sleeping with stuffed animals as an adult, why not consider incorporating your childhood companion into your bedtime routine?

Don’t be ashamed or embarrassed about seeking comfort from a plush friend – it’s a completely normal practice that many adults find helpful for a better night’s sleep.

Comfort objects like stuffed animals can provide a sense of security and emotional support, contributing to a more restful sleep. So why not cuddle up with your favorite plush friend tonight and see if it enhances your sleeping experience?

Remember, it’s never too late to embrace the comfort of your childhood teddy bear or other stuffed animal. Whether you’ve had the same plush companion for decades or are just starting a new bedtime routine, sleeping with stuffed animals can provide a sense of familiarity and comfort that can help you sleep better as an adult.

So go ahead and snuggle up with your favorite stuffed animal – you deserve a good night’s sleep, and your childhood companion can help provide the comfort you need to achieve it.