In the plush toy world, 2025 is shaping up to be a year of both nostalgia and fresh innovation. As collectors and children alike seek comfort, character connection, and uniqueness, the plush toy market continues to evolve. Here are the top 10 trending plush toy characters of 2025 — and how we at Ngwantoy are perfectly positioned to serve this growing demand with licensed, original, and custom plush creations.
1. Labubu
Labubu, the mischievous and artistic toy character created by designer Sket One, has surged in popularity. These quirky little monsters strike a balance between collectible figurines and plush toys. Collectors love Labubu's distinct design, bold colors, and limited editions, which make them highly desirable. Plush versions of Labubu combine soft materials with that signature playful edge, perfect for both display and cuddling.
2. Pikachu (Pokémon)
No list of trending plush characters would be complete without Pikachu, the iconic yellow mascot of Pokémon. In 2025, Pikachu plush toys are not just for kids — they are key collector's items. Licensed plush toys featuring different art styles, seasonal outfits, or collaboration designs are driving strong demand. Their perfect blend of cuteness and brand legacy keeps them at the top of the market.
3. Bluey
Since its global TV success, Bluey, the Australian Blue Heeler puppy, continues to be one of the most loved characters. Plush toys modeled after Bluey and her family have become staples in bedrooms around the world. Their appeal lies in the warm, wholesome storytelling of the show, which resonates with parents and children alike. Bluey plushies come in a variety of sizes and soft fabrics, making them both huggable and highly marketable.
4. Grogu (''Baby Yoda'')
Grogu, popularly known as ''Baby Yoda'' from The Mandalorian, remains a plush favorite. Fans are drawn to his big ears, expressive eyes, and mysterious Force powers. Plush versions of Grogu are often made in ultra-soft materials, enhancing the cuteness factor. Licensed plush toys like Grogu continue to generate huge interest among Star Wars fans of all ages.
5. Stitch (Disney)
Disney's Stitch, from Lilo & Stitch, continues to be a top plush character. His mischievous personality and alien charm appeal to both children and adult Disney fans. In 2025, plush designs of Stitch are more imaginative, sometimes incorporating glow-in-the-dark elements, large plush styles, or limited-edition variants. Stitch plushies remain a pillar of Disney's character merchandise.
6. Hello Kitty
A timeless classic, Hello Kitty continues to dominate as a plush icon. Her simple design and universal appeal make Hello Kitty plush toys a must-have. In 2025, collaborations with streetwear brands, pastel color variants, and anniversary editions are boosting her plush popularity. Licensed plush toys like Hello Kitty are loved by both long-time fans and new generations.
7. Charmander (Pokémon)
Among the many Pokémon plush characters, Charmander is especially hot in 2025. Fans love its adorable flame tail and fiery personality. Plush versions vary from small keychain plushies to large cuddle-size versions. Limited-edition Charmander plush toys, or those wearing seasonal costumes, are particularly popular among collectors.
8. Among Us Crewmate
The Among Us game continues to influence the plush toy market. The simple but colorful crewmates (and imposters) are easy to turn into plush forms, and their popularity among gaming communities keeps them trending. In 2025, crewmate plushies often come in pastel or tie-dye colorways, plus fun collaboration versions, making them collector-worthy.
9. Peppa Pig
Peppa Pig remains firmly in the plush toy spotlight. With preschoolers all over the world watching her adventures, Peppa plush toys are both comforting and collectible. Plush versions often include Peppa in her dress, wearing different outfits, or with family members. She's a go-to character for parents buying for toddlers.
10. Totoro (My Neighbor Totoro)
Studio Ghibli's Totoro, the gentle forest spirit, has an ever-lasting charm. Totoro plush toys are particularly cherished for their soft, round bodies and calming presence. In 2025, Totoro remains a plush favorite, with plush lines expanding to include mini Totoros, large cuddle plush, and even keychain versions. Totoro plushies appeal deeply to fans of animation, nostalgia, and comfort.
Why These Plush Characters Are Trending
Several factors are driving these plush characters to the top in 2025:
- Nostalgia + Legacy IP: Characters like Pikachu, Stitch, Hello Kitty, and Totoro have strong nostalgic appeal, drawing in collectors and parents.
- Modern Pop Culture Influence: Labubu, Bluey, and Among Us reflect current tastes and trends, especially among younger audiences and digital-native consumers.
- Licensing Innovation: Brand collaborations (fashion, gaming, TV) are adding fresh life to well-known characters.
- Comfort and Design: Plush toys provide both emotional comfort and collectible value. Soft fabrics, clever design, and limited editions are big drivers.
- Customization & Collectibility: Limited series, custom plush toys, and artisan-made plushies drive both scarcity and desire.
How We at Ngwantoy Serve the Plush Market
At Ngwantoy, we specialize in turning ideas into lovable plush creations. Here's how we bring value to trending plush toys and the wider market:
- Licensed Plush Toys: We create high-quality licensed IP plush toys, ensuring faithful reproduction of characters while maintaining safety and durability.
- Original Design Plushies: We design our own original plush characters, offering unique options that stand out alongside trending IPs.
- Custom Plush Creations: We offer fully customizable plush toys, allowing brands, IP owners, or businesses to create limited editions or co-branded products.
- Quality & Safety: We emphasize premium materials, detailed craftsmanship, and rigorous quality control to ensure each plush toy is safe, durable, and collectible.
- Scalable Production: Whether it's a small batch or mass production, we can adapt our manufacturing to meet diverse business needs.
By combining creativity, technical expertise, and manufacturing excellence, we ensure every plush toy we make — whether licensed, original, or custom — meets high standards and delights collectors, kids, and fans alike.
Leveraging Plush Trends for Your Brand
For brands, IP owners, and retailers, plush toys remain a powerful tool for engagement and sales. You can:
- Collaborate with trending IPs to launch plush lines.
- Develop limited-edition or seasonal plush toys to drive collectibility.
- Work with a partner like Ngwantoy for custom plush production, from prototypes to finished products.
- Introduce original plush characters to create a unique brand identity.
- Focus on quality, detail, and safety to differentiate your products.
Conclusion
The top 10 trending plush toy characters of 2025 — from Labubu to Totoro — show the perfect balance of nostalgia, pop culture relevance, and cuddly appeal. At Ngwantoy, we are passionate about creating licensed, original, and custom plush toys that bring characters to life. Whether you want to produce collectible IP plush, launch your own designs, or craft a one-of-a-kind custom plush toy, we have the expertise, experience, and commitment to quality to make it happen.
Embrace the plush trends of 2025 with us, and let Ngwantoy turn your ideas into huggable realities.