Squishmallows. Build-A-Bears. Pillow Pets. Three popular stuffed animal brands, all selling numerous types of soft plushies and toys. But are they only for kids? Nope! Stuffed animals can be for anyone, and can actually improve the lives of those who own them, even if they’re college students.
While you don’t need a whole Squishmallow collection (like the author…), here are five reasons why every college student should have a stuffed animal!
- A plushie can reflect your personality and/or interests.
A stuffed animal is a great way to reflect the things you’re interested in or convey your personality! Build-A-Bear’s website even has a tab dedicated to specific interest-related animals, including Marvel, Star Wars and Lord of the Rings.
Speaking of reflecting personality…
- A stuffed animal can be used for aesthetic purposes or decoration.
A stuffed animal can reflect your aesthetic tastes as well! If you have a certain stuffed animal that looks nice in your dorm’s bean bag, or on top of your closet, use it! They have multiple uses. Some collectors of stuffed animals, specifically Squishmallows, have hangers to display their favorite fluffballs.
- They’re trendy.
Having a stuffed animal collection is currently a trend, specifically with Squishmallows. The brand even had a New York Times article written about them!
- They can replace boring pillows.
Speaking from personal experience, certain stuffed animals can make great pillows, especially in a smaller dorm setting. I personally use my Hello Kitty Squishmallow and get the same amount of support I got from my past, regular pillows. I also get a way to express my interest in Sanrio through my new and improved pillow!
And last, but certainly not least:
- They make the best cuddle buddies EVER!
No matter the size or stuffing, any stuffed animal can be an amazing cuddler. Some plushies may even have nostalgia attached, like if they were a gift from a friend or partner. Part of their snuggle excellence is their softness; the other is the attachment that comes with it.
There are five totally super reasons why every college student should have a stuffed animal. While the brands listed in this listicle were a bit pricey, some of my favorite places to get less pricey (but just as cuddly) stuffed animals are Five Below (some of which carry Squishmallows) and Amazon!