How We Chose
Each toy and tool on this list was selected based on evidence-informed recommendations, feedback from real families, safety standards, and the ability to support healthy bedtime routines for various ages. We prioritized items that foster comfort, independence, and a sense of security, while considering materials, durability, and ease of use.
1. Hatch Rest 2nd Gen — Multi-Function Nightlight & Sound Machine
Why it stands out
This all-in-one device combines a customizable nightlight, soothing white noise, and time-to-rise features. It helps signal bedtime and morning, creating consistent cues for sleep routines.
Best for
- Establishing consistent sleep signals
- Children sensitive to darkness or household noise
Key notes
- Age/Stage: Infancy through early elementary
- Materials/Ingredients: BPA-free plastic, LED lighting
- Strengths: Multi-featured, app-controlled, grows with child
- Trade-offs: Requires outlet; app setup may take time
2. Jellycat Bashful Bunny — Ultra-Soft Comfort Plush
Why it stands out
This beloved plush toy is known for its supersoft fur and gentle, floppy design, offering tactile comfort and a familiar friend for bedtime snuggles.
Best for
- Children who self-soothe with a lovey
- Transitional times (crib to bed, travel)
Key notes
- Age/Stage: Birth+ (supervised for under 12 months)
- Materials/Ingredients: Polyester plush
- Strengths: Machine washable (gentle cycle), durable, widely loved
- Trade-offs: Not for aggressive chewers; some shedding possible
3. Slumberkins Snuggler — Story & Stuffie for Emotional Regulation
Why it stands out
This set pairs a calming plush with an illustrated bedtime book, teaching mindfulness and self-soothing strategies through storytelling and cuddling.
Best for
- Children needing extra emotional support
- Families seeking gentle routine-building tools
Key notes
- Age/Stage: 0–6 years
- Materials/Ingredients: Polyester plush, board book
- Strengths: Encourages parent-child bonding, evidence-based content
- Trade-offs: Higher price point; plush is flat and may not suit all
4. Manhattan Toy Musical Lullaby Mobile — Gentle Melodies for Infants
Why it stands out
This classic crib mobile soothes babies with soft melodies and slow movement, supporting visual tracking and gentle wind-down before sleep.
Best for
- Infants who enjoy visual and auditory cues
- Establishing nap and bedtime routines in the crib
Key notes
- Age/Stage: Birth to 5 months (or as per safety guidelines)
- Materials/Ingredients: Plush, plastic, cotton
- Strengths: No batteries needed, classic melodies, visually appealing
- Trade-offs: Remove when baby can push up; limited use as child grows
5. Cloud b Tranquil Turtle — Nightlight & Sound Soother
Why it stands out
This plush turtle projects moving underwater effects and plays calming ocean sounds, creating a multisensory environment for easier settling.
Best for
- Kids who are comforted by gentle lights and ambient sounds
- Children transitioning to their own room
Key notes
- Age/Stage: 2+ years
- Materials/Ingredients: Plush, plastic (BPA-free)
- Strengths: Visual and audio soothing, portable, auto shut-off
- Trade-offs: Requires batteries; some children may prefer full darkness
6. IKEA LATTJO Soft Toy Bat — Imaginative Bedtime Friend
Why it stands out
This whimsical plush bat adds a playful twist to bedtime, sparking imaginations and helping children feel brave in the dark with a friendly “night creature” by their side.
Best for
- Preschoolers facing bedtime fears
- Families who enjoy storytelling and role-play
Key notes
- Age/Stage: 12 months+
- Materials/Ingredients: 100% polyester (some recycled content)
- Strengths: Machine washable, affordable, unique design
- Trade-offs: Not weighted; limited sensory features
7. Pottery Barn Kids Glow-in-the-Dark Star Blanket
Why it stands out
This extra-soft blanket features glow-in-the-dark stars, offering a gentle visual cue for bedtime and cozy comfort throughout the night.
Best for
- Children who enjoy tactile comfort
- Kids who feel comforted by soft light transitions
Key notes
- Age/Stage: 2+ years
- Materials/Ingredients: Cotton/polyester blend
- Strengths: Dual function (blanket and nightlight), machine washable
- Trade-offs: Requires light exposure to glow; not suitable for infants under 12 months
8. Melissa & Doug K’s Kids Take-Along Shape Sorter — Pre-Bedtime Wind-Down
Why it stands out
This soft, portable shape sorter provides quiet, calming play before lights-out, helping toddlers transition into bedtime with hands-on engagement.
Best for
- Active toddlers needing a winding-down activity
- Travel or grandparents’ homes
Key notes
- Age/Stage: 9 months–2 years
- Materials/Ingredients: Plush, plastic (BPA-free)
- Strengths: Promotes fine motor skills, soft and safe, machine washable bag
- Trade-offs: Not intended as a sleep aid, but as a transitional activity
9. Green Sprouts Organic Cotton Lovey
Why it stands out
This breathable, compact lovey is made with organic cotton and designed for safe snuggling, providing comfort without overheating.
Best for
- Parents seeking simple, natural materials
- Babies and toddlers who sleep with a comfort object
Key notes
- Age/Stage: 6 months+ (supervised for under 12 months)
- Materials/Ingredients: 100% organic cotton
- Strengths: Breathable, machine washable, minimalist design
- Trade-offs: May lose softness after many washes; not weighted
10. VTech Baby Lil’ Critters Soothing Starlight Hippo
Why it stands out
This cuddly hippo projects stars and plays gentle lullabies or nature sounds, giving children a multisensory wind-down experience.
Best for
- Babies and toddlers who respond to music and light
- Children transitioning from crib to toddler bed
Key notes
- Age/Stage: Birth–3 years
- Materials/Ingredients: Plush, BPA-free plastic
- Strengths: Multiple sound/light options, easy controls, auto shut-off
- Trade-offs: Requires batteries; may be too stimulating for some children if settings are not adjusted
Buying Tips
- Safety first: Check age guidelines and remove soft toys from sleep spaces for infants under 12 months, as recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics.
- Material matters: Opt for hypoallergenic, non-toxic, and easy-to-clean materials, especially for younger children who may mouth toys.
- Consider your child’s preferences: Some children need white noise, while others prefer a cuddly toy or gentle light—observe what helps yours settle best.
- Ease of maintenance: Machine washable covers or plushies simplify routines and support healthy environments.
- Think long-term: Multi-stage items (like sound machines with time-to-rise features) may grow with your child, saving money in the long run.
- Trial and error: Children may develop attachments over time—introduce new items gradually and be patient as routines evolve.
Verdict
When it comes to supporting calm, consistent bedtime routines, the right toys and tools can make all the difference. By choosing products that comfort, soothe, and help children feel safe, families can foster positive sleep associations and smoother evenings. Whether your child is soothed by soft lights, gentle sounds, or a beloved plush, this year’s top picks offer practical, evidence-informed options for every stage and need.
FAQ
+How many toys should I include in my child’s bedtime routine?
+Are nightlights helpful or disruptive for sleep?
+What’s the best age to introduce a comfort plush or lovey?
+How do I know if a bedtime toy is safe for my child?
+Can bedtime toys help with bedtime resistance?
+What if my child becomes attached to a specific toy?
+Are sound machines safe for babies?
Establishing a calm bedtime routine can make a world of difference for both children and parents. The right toys and tools are more than just comforting—they create positive sleep associations and help little ones wind down after a busy day. Our 2025 guide to the top 10 bedtime toys and tools highlights products that blend soothing textures, gentle lights, and calming sounds. From plush weighted animals to innovative white noise machines, each item is designed to ease transitions to sleep and promote relaxation. Parents should look for toys made from high-quality, hypoallergenic materials and those with features like washable covers or adjustable settings. Even classic favorites, like soft nightlights and story projectors, have received thoughtful upgrades this year, making them even more effective for supporting restful nights. Remember, the best bedtime tools are those that fit seamlessly into your family’s unique routine and help your child feel safe, secure, and ready for sleep. A cozy environment, paired with the right tools, transforms bedtime from a nightly struggle into a cherished, calming ritual.
- Weighted plush animals for gentle pressure and comfort
- Soft-glow nightlights with adjustable brightness
- White noise and lullaby machines with timer options
- Storybook projectors for soothing bedtime storytelling
I noticed that several of the toys on your list, like the Hatch Rest and plush animals, are made from plastic or polyester. How do these materials compare to wooden toys in terms of sustainability and environmental impact for parents who are trying to choose eco-friendly bedtime options?
It’s thoughtful of you to consider sustainability when choosing bedtime toys for your child. Plastic and polyester toys, such as the Hatch Rest and many plush animals, are less eco-friendly than wooden toys, as they often rely on fossil fuels and can take centuries to break down. Here are some steps you can take: 1) Look for plush toys made with recycled or organic materials when possible. 2) Choose wooden toys certified by credible eco-labels, and check their finish is non-toxic. 3) Prioritize durability, since longer-lasting toys reduce waste. 4) For electronic or plastic items necessary for your routine, consider buying secondhand or recycling responsibly. Always check for age-appropriate finishes and avoid small parts for babies. This isn’t medical advice; if you’re concerned, check in with your pediatrician.