Labubu dolls are trending, custom plush commissions are booming, and adults are embracing plushies with open arms (and hearts)

It’s got spiky ears, a toothy grin, and enough personality to steal the spotlight from a designer handbag. Meet Labubu—the mischievous plush character that’s taken over fashion week feeds, collector circles, and hearts around the world. But Labubu is just the beginning. Plush toys are having a serious grown-up moment.

These days, plushies for adults aren’t just a quirky side trend, they’re a full-blown cultural movement. From high-fashion collabs to deeply personal keepsakes, adults everywhere are embracing the soft, squishy joy of plush toys. And while viral collectibles like the Labubu doll may be grabbing headlines, it’s the emotional connection behind the craze that really matters.

At CustomPlushMaker, we don’t stock Labubu, but we do create custom plushies inspired by whatever brings you joy. No matter if it’s a childhood doodle, a favorite pet, or a brand mascot, our plushes are made-to-order, made to last, and made to mean something.

So, what’s fueling this plush-powered comeback, and what does it say about how we give, receive, and find comfort in 2025?

What’s Driving the Kidult Plush Toy Trend?

For years, plush toys were seen as strictly for children—symbols of innocence, playtime, and nap-time snuggles. But in 2025, a growing wave of “kidults” (a blend of kid + adult) is rewriting that story. More than ever, adults are turning to plushies not just for nostalgia, but for emotional well-being and even interior style.

But what’s behind this soft-powered revolution?

Part of it is cultural. Many millennials and Gen Z adults grew up during an era rich with iconic cartoons, vibrant characters, and toy aisles that felt like magical kingdoms. As the world becomes more stressful and screen-saturated, these generations are revisiting the simple joys of the past—and plushies for adults are the perfect portal to that comfort.

There’s also a growing awareness of mental wellness and sensory care. For many, plush toys act as emotional anchors, providing calming textures, a sense of security, and a break from the always-on digital world. From cozy couch companions to desk mascots, adult plushies are quietly becoming part of everyday life.

And let’s not forget the design factor. Plush toys aren’t just cuddly anymore, they’re cool. With bold aesthetics, clever characters, and unexpected collabs, plushies are showing up in streetwear, photo shoots, and even boutique hotels. No matter if they’re mass-produced or totally unique, they’re now tiny, squishy statements, not toys.

In short, adults aren’t “outgrowing” plushies. They’re taking them back—with pride.

Why Labubu Is the Mascot of the Moment

You’ve seen it on TikTok. You’ve spotted it clipped to handbags on the subway. And if you’ve spent time near a Pop Mart store recently, you’ve probably seen a line of fans waiting—some since 4 a.m., hoping to score one. We’re talking, of course, about Labubu.

Originally created by artist Kasing Lung, this mischievous little gremlin has exploded in popularity thanks to its unique look: part cute, part creepy, totally collectible. With its snaggle-toothed grin and wildly expressive eyes, the Labubu doll has become a global phenomenon—crossing from niche art toy into mainstream fashion accessory. Even celebrities like Lisa from BLACKPINK and Dua Lipa have been spotted with one.

But what makes Labubu truly stand out is its emotional resonance. Sold in mystery “blind boxes,” you don’t know which version you’re getting until it’s opened. That element of surprise creates a deep, almost childlike connection—one that’s personal, playful, and full of anticipation. It’s not just about the toy itself, it’s about the experience of unwrapping it, bonding with it, and adding it to your growing plush family.

Here at CustomPlushMaker, we don’t sell Labubu (we’ll leave that to Pop Mart), but we do understand the obsession. That’s because we create fully custom plush toys designed around your story—whether it’s an original character you’ve drawn, a creature from your dreams, or even a plush version of your brand mascot.

You don’t need a viral toy to join the fun when you can design one of your own.

Labubu might be leading the charge, but it’s just one star in a sky full of plush-powered possibilities.

The Future of Gifting Is Soft, Squishy, and Custom-Made

We’ve entered an era where the best gifts aren’t the flashiest—they’re the most meaningful. Forget the gift cards and generic gadgets. In 2025, it’s all about personalization, nostalgia, and emotional connection. And that’s exactly where plushies for adults shine.

Unlike mass-produced toys, a custom plush toy speaks directly to the heart. It could be a plush version of someone’s beloved pet. A recreation of a doodle their child drew on a napkin. Or a soft, huggable mascot for a business that wants to stand out. Whatever the inspiration, a custom plush turns memories into something tangible and truly unforgettable.

At CustomPlushMaker, we make that magic happen. Our process is simple, creative, and entirely customer-focused:

  1. Get a Quote: Tell us your idea—whether it’s a creature, character, pet, or product.
  2. Order a Prototype: We’ll bring it to life with a physical sample you can review (first-timers get $10 off!).
  3. Production: Once approved, our experienced team gets to work creating your plushies with care and precision.
  4. Delivery: Soft, squishy happiness, shipped straight to your door.

With more than 150,000 pieces produced monthly and clients like Coca-Cola and McDonald’s under our belt, we’re proud to be a trusted custom plush manufacturer for both personal and corporate projects. If you’re looking for custom plush commissions for a gift, a marketing campaign, or a collectible series, we’re here to make it meaningful.

And yes, we care about quality just as much as you do. Our factory meets top international standards—think ISO9001, GOTS, FSC, OEKO-TEX, and BSCI certifications, because safety and softness should always go hand in hand.

So, while the world goes wild for characters like Labubu, remember: you can make something just as iconic—and even more personal when it’s crafted just for you.

The Gift That Grown-Ups Didn’t Know They Needed

The rise of plushies for adults is a clear reflection of something deeper. In a world that often feels fast  and disconnected, plush toys offer a rare kind of comfort: tactile, nostalgic, and deeply personal.

If it’s the quirky charm of a Labubu doll, the surprise of a blind box collectible, or the one-of-a-kind joy of a custom plush toy made just for you, the message is clear—plushies have grown up, and so have the reasons we love them.

At CustomPlushMaker, we’re here to turn your ideas, memories, or mascots into something soft, squishy, and unforgettable. As a trusted custom plush manufacturer, we help you create your own trend.

Now if you’re searching for a gift that means more, or simply want a little comfort for yourself, let us help you design a plush that feels like home.

Start your custom plush commission today and bring your imagination to life.

Get a quote today