Social media has the magical ability to turn almost anything into a trend, from dances and memes to the latest must-have plush toys. Platforms like TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest, YouTube, and X (formerly Twitter) aren’t just for keeping up with friends; they’re where the world decides what’s cool right now. And when it comes to popular stuffed animals, the internet never sleeps.
Ty knows a thing or two about trending toys; in the '90s stuffed animal Golden Age, the original Beanie Babies practically broke the mold before hashtags were even a thing. Fast-forward to today, and popular plushies are once again front and center in pop culture, appearing in viral videos for fluff restoration, collector communities, lost stuffy finder groups, and influencer posts about traveling with their favorite plushies around the globe.
Current Types of Popular Plushies
Squeeze The Day
Over the past few years, squishy stuffed animals have taken over the zeitgeist. These soft, squeezable, and oh-so-comfy plushies come in every color and shape you can imagine. Squishies are a go-to for comfort, style, and social media-worthy cuteness.
Fan Favorite Characters
When it comes to popular stuffed animals, licensed plushes almost always make the trending list. Characters from movies, TV shows, and games already have devoted fan bases, and when a beloved character gets turned into a stuffed animal? Instant must-have. From plush Marvel heroes and stuffed animal versions of Disney classics to kid-favorite shows like Bluey and Paw Patrol, licensed plush collectables tap into some of the most beloved franchises across all ages. Whether it’s superheroes, nostalgic cartoons, or the latest anime hit, these plushies come with serious fandom power.
Inanimate Object Plush Rush
Yes, that smiling cheeseburger or sleepy slice of bread is supposed to be a stuffed animal, and people are obsessed. These quirky, non-living-object plushies offer a unique spin that resonates with fans looking for something different. They’re fun, weird, and create an odd sense of empathy for daily household items you wouldn’t expect.
Wild & Wonderful
Sloths, axolotls, & Bush Babies… oh my! Plushies that resemble rare or exotic animals have gained popularity simply because they’re not your everyday teddy bear. Fans love the novelty, and having a plush of a creature you’ve maybe never seen in person just adds to the appeal. The more specific and unusual the wildlife plush is, the better.
The Plush Size Showdown
When it comes to trending stuffed animals, the plush size is a huge factor (literally). Jumbo plushies have been dominating social media feeds, as they are perfect for dramatic room decor and extra cozy cuddles. But don’t count out the tiny guys just yet! Mini plushies remain in high demand due to their cuteness, collectibility, and travel-friendly charm.
Viral, Trending Stuffed Animals
Festive & Fluffy
There's just something about seasonal plush that makes people click “Add to Cart.” Whether it’s a spooky bat in the fall for Halloween or a snowman in the winter, holiday plushies bring out the inner collector in everyone. Take Ty’s Cookie the Gingerbread Clip, he went viral on X when a user (@fartpog) jokingly called him ugly, felt bad about it, and bought him out of sympathy. Suddenly, everyone needed their own Cookie. Talk about holiday magic!
Labubu Madness
One of the newest plush obsessions online? Labubu, the mischievous “elf-monster” keychains that fans are hoarding like treasure. They're so popular that knockoffs, like “Lafufu,” have started circulating online, sparking confusion, memes, and even more demand. Love them or fear them, Labubus will be featured in plush trend commentary about the history of stuffed animals from now on.
The Future of Popular Plush Animals
Social media has created a whole new playground for popular plushies to thrive, from fan-created stories and memes to collectors’ hauls, holiday decor ideas, and aesthetic room tours. Whether it’s a weird little gingerbread Beanie clip, a life-sized plush bear, or your Beanie Birthday twin, the next big thing is always just one post away.
Which trending stuffed animal are you obsessed with right now? And what do you think will be the next viral plush sensation?