Dozens of Products Tested Later, We’re Confident We’ve Found the Top 10 Sensory Toys

It is worth noting that a chew tool isn’t going to be a fit for all oral sensory challenges, and even the softest option of the ARK tool is still rather firm. It also isn’t the most discreet sensory toy, meaning it can’t be an easily concealed form of stimming. That said, it is a low-cost and easy tool to try out, so we definitely think it is worth a try.

Deep pressure can feel calming and grounding for individuals with autism. This led us to explore different takes on weighted blankets that could be enjoyed by children and adults alike. Then, we found the Bearaby Lounger, a heated and weighted lap pad. Easy to use, offering both heat and deep touch pressure, and machine washable, it was an obvious winner for the best comfort item.

Weighted stuffed animals that can be warmed up are excellent for stimulating multiple senses. Sloth Warmies offer a soft touch for tactile stimulation, the weight provides deep-touch pressure, the scent is perfect for an olfactory sensory experience, and the option to add heat is an added bonus. According to Editorial Director Simone Scully, her whole family loves using the Sloth Warmies and enjoys the natural lavender scent, which is why we are confident it is the best scented option.

There are a number of stuffed sensory toys out there. However, we were looking for something that stood out from the rest, and the Extra Large Turbobo with plush fabric does just that. The 5-pound weighted stuffed dog is a comforting and cuddly sensory toy. Made of soft plush fabric, it is larger than its competitors, measuring 18 inches long and 12 inches wide. This size difference was a key consideration in naming it the best sensory toy stuffie.

Scully’s son loved this toy. “He found the weight of it soothing, especially at night, because he said it felt like someone was sleeping next to him,” she shared. She also noted that there is a heat/cooling gel pack that can be tucked into one of the dog’s ears, a selection of essential oils to choose from, and a picture book. She did note that it’s pricier than similar options.

One unique feature is the ability to choose your preferred scent at checkout. That said, using essential oils does require an extra step of application, unlike toys that come pre-filled with calming herbs like lavender.

Something we liked about this toy is that while it was beloved by Ashley’s daughter, it is sophisticated enough to hold an adult’s attention. It comes with a spinner add-on, so it easily turns into a fidget spinner. Note that it comes with small parts that could be a major choking hazard, so it isn’t great for small kids. Additionally, it is a bit more involved sensory tool since it has so many pieces, so it isn’t the most discreet toy.

I like that this comes in several sizes, making it suitable for most beds. This blanket comes in heavy weights ranging from 13 to 20 pounds (the brand recommends selecting a weight that is 10% of your total body weight). One thing to note about this product is that it is very obviously a comforter best used on a bed. I had hoped to use it as a throw on my psychotherapy office couch, but it was clear it couldn’t reasonably double as a couch throw because it was too big. That wasn’t a big issue for me — I was happy enough to cozy up with it on my bed.

Editor Nicole Bonaccorso let her kids try this out and was pleased to see how much they enjoyed the set. However, she recommends this option for families who already have some familiarity with music, as the drum pad can be a bit confusing to use at first. The drumsticks are small and designed for little hands, making them best suited for younger users.

Having something to fidget with that is quiet can be immensely helpful. We looked high and low to find something that was satisfying, stimulated multiple senses, and was whisper-quiet. We found the Morf Fidget Worm hit all of these criteria and then some. It has a pretty rainbow hue, a unique texture, and can be fidgeted with in complete silence, making it our preferred quiet fidget toy.

When testing this, Ziegler immediately noticed how much her children loved the Small version of this toy, noting that she has one daughter with autism and another with ADHD. “My daughter with ADHD will just sit there while playing with it while she watches TV or reads, and my daughter with autism can just zone out while playing with it,” she explained. She expressed shock at how much of a hit this toy is. This toy can be a bit fragile and is on the smaller side, but you can easily buy a larger version if that suits your needs better.

Magnetic toys can make for a highly satisfying sensory experience. They often have a cool texture, make a satisfying sound, and are fun to watch as they gravitate towards each other. The Crags Magnetic Putty from Speks offers the typical fun experience of playing with putty, but with a slick feel and aesthetically pleasing hue.

We love that this magnetic putty comes in small, medium, and large sizes, offering options for different stim setups. The tin it comes in is also striking, thanks to its sleek design and selection of bold colors. It is messy if dropped (picture all those tiny magnetic pebbles rolling about) and is not for small children because it poses a choking hazard. Use responsibly and enjoy it anywhere, even your work desk.

We set out to find the option out there. From clay-like doughs to sticky putties, there are dozens to choose from—but Crazy Aaron’s Thinking Putty stood out for its unique formula. This putty is made from non-toxic silicone and doesn’t leave a gross residue on the fingers. It is known for being bouncy, so playing with it can feel extra satisfying.

Crazy Aaron’s offers what feels like an endless array of scents and colors. The Mixed Emotions option is especially fun, with smiley faces mixed into the putty and six different designs hidden throughout for a little surprise as you play. You can truly zone out while searching for the unique smiley faces, adding an additional layer of stimulation. Heads up — the putty can get dirty easily, so be mindful to wash your hands and set the putty in clean places. Some folks find that the putty is a bit tough, too.