25 Best Baby Toys of 2025: From Rattles to Interactive Playmats
July 22, 2025
Overview
Discover the top baby toys of 2025 in our comprehensive guide, designed to spark joy and promote early development. This curated list features 25 of the best toys for newborns, infants, and toddlers, carefully selected for their safety, engagement, and educational value. From classic rattles and plush animals to innovative interactive playmats, we've got you covered with recommendations to stimulate your baby's senses and encourage healthy play from day one.
Senior Editor
Our top picks
The Best Newborn Essentials for Early Development: Baby Einstein Sea Dreams Soother, $29.99
The Most Engaging Playmat for Sensory Playtime: Farmstand Grow & Play Activity Gym by Skip Hop, $90.00
The Safest Teether for Teething Babies: Nuby Ice Gel Teether Keys, $5.99
The Best Building Blocks for Growing Toddlers: VTech Turn and Learn Driver, $7.79
The Best Musical Toy to Delight and Entertain: Baby Einstein Take Along Tunes, $9.96
The Most Soothing Plush Toy for Newborns: Bright Starts Winnie The Pooh Water Mat, $9.99
The Best Educational Toy for Toddler Development: My Little Artist Playset by Gund, $8.11
Newborn Essentials: Toys for Early Development
Gentle rattles and soft plush toys designed to stimulate newborns' senses and provide comfort.
Sassy Wonder Wheel
$12.99
Infuse mealtime with excitement using the Sassy Wonder Wheel, where engaging colors and textures invite babies to explore. This BPA-free toy, equipped with a sturdy suction cup base, makes playtime hassle-free by sticking securely to solid surfaces—though some assistance with sticking may be needed. While the wheel isn't water-immersible, it offers excellent tactile stimulation, supporting early motor skills. At $12.99, it's a great addition for sensory learning, despite potential portability issues due to its size.
The Good
• The spinning wheel encourages baby to reach, tug, and bat, strengthening hand-eye coordination.
• The suction cup base attaches to solid surfaces for frustration-free play.
• Multiple texture points encourage baby's tactile exploration.
The Bad
• Some parents find that the suction cup needs a little help sticking to the high chair tray.
• The toy cannot be immersed in water, limiting cleaning options.
• The size may be a bit large for some diaper bags, affecting portability.
Safety Material: BPA-free / Educational Value: Motor Skills / Recommended Age Range: 6+ months / Engagement Type: Sensory
Baby Einstein Sea Dreams Soother
$29.99
The Baby Einstein Sea Dreams Soother is your ideal partner for calming bedtime routines. With its enchanting mix of calming lights, soothing music, and ocean sounds, it creates an inviting sleep atmosphere. A convenient remote control allows for customizing settings from a distance, but be mindful of volume levels that some parents find too loud. Battery replacements might be frequent due to regular use, yet the overall soothing experience is well worth considering these minor inconveniences.
The Good
• Features calming lights, gentle music, and ocean sounds to help babies relax and fall asleep.
• Includes a remote control for convenient operation from a distance.
• Offers multiple settings and modes to customize the soothing experience.
The Bad
• Some users report defective units producing loud screeching noises.
• Requires frequent battery replacements, especially with regular use.
• Volume may be too loud for sensitive infants, even on the lowest setting.
Safety Material: BPA-free / Educational Value: Sensory Development / Recommended Age Range: 0 months and up / Engagement Type: Sensory
Skwish Natural
$23.00
Unleash your baby's curiosity and development with the Skwish Natural. This award-winning toy, crafted from natural wood and non-toxic finishes, combines springy elastic and sliding beads, encouraging sensory and motor skill development. While some parents express concerns about cleaning challenges due to the elastic ties, the multi-sensory engagement it provides outweighs these points. Perfectly safe for babies, the Skwish offers a stimulating play experience while sparking crucial skills from the earliest days.
The Good
• Made from natural wood with non-toxic water-based finishes, ensuring safety for babies.
The Bad
• The elastic ties can make cleaning more challenging compared to other wooden toys.
• Some parents express concern about potential safety issues if the toy is hit at an angle.
Safety Material: Natural Wood / Educational Value: Motor Skills / Recommended Age Range: 0+ months / Engagement Type: Sensory
Fisher-Price Sing & Go Purple Monkey
$15.99
Transform stroller rides into a sensory adventure with the Fisher-Price Sing & Go Purple Monkey. This delightful toy's rich fabrics and high-contrast colors captivate infants, while the fun jingle sounds and a crinkle ear provide auditory stimulation. While we noticed some babies might not engage with it immediately at 2.5 months, the handy link makes it perfect for on-the-go fun. Keep in mind, it requires 2 AAA batteries, included for immediate use.
The Good
• Features rich fabrics, satiny ribbons, high-contrast colors, clackers, a crinkle ear, and fun jingle sounds.
• Easily attaches to a stroller canopy, baby gym, or diaper bag with the handy link.
• Includes 2 AAA batteries.
The Bad
• The song is missing the bridge.
• It's bigger than I anticipated.
• At 2.5 months, my baby isn’t interested in this quite yet.
Safety Material: Fabric / Educational Value: Sensory Development / Recommended Age Range: 0 months and up / Engagement Type: Interactive
Stim To Go by Wimmer
$18.00
The Stim To Go by Wimmer is a beautifully designed stroller accessory that provides visual stimulation for babies. With high-contrast images and durable construction, it's perfect for engaging developing eyes and tiny hands. However, during our review, we found that the clip's grip could be more secure, sometimes causing it to tip sideways. Despite this, its lightweight design makes it easy to add to any travel setup, and is great for babies aged 0 to 5 months.
The Good
• Lightweight design makes it easy to attach to car seats and strollers.
• High-contrast images effectively capture and hold infants' attention.
• Durable construction withstands regular use without damage.
The Bad
• The clip can easily come off, making attachment less secure.
• Doesn't swing around unless the wind catches it just right or it's manually spun.
• The discs don’t lay flat when hanging; they tip sideways, reducing visibility.
Safety Material: Non-toxic paint / Educational Value: Sensory Development / Recommended Age Range: 0-5 months / Engagement Type: Sensory
My Little Artist Playset by Gund
$8.11
The My Little Artist Playset by Gund invites your little one into a world of sensory exploration with its variety of plush toys. Each piece offers unique textures and sounds, fostering early sensory development in a comforting package. Though some might compare the sensory features to pet toys, the machine-washable set makes for easy cleanup. Ideal for infants from birth, this playset is a charming first step in nurturing creative discovery.
The Good
• The playset includes a variety of sensory-stimulating plush toys, each designed with unique textures and sounds.
• The playset is machine-washable, making it easy to clean and maintain.
The Bad
• Some users find the sensory features reminiscent of pet toys, which may not appeal to all parents.
• The size of the playset is smaller than some users expected, which may affect its perceived value.
Safety Material: Fabric / Educational Value: Sensory Development / Recommended Age Range: 0+ months / Engagement Type: Sensory
Oball Classic Ball
$4.99
The Oball Classic Ball's unique design promotes early motor skills engagement with ease. Its myriad of finger holes make it particularly suitable for tiny hands, while the vibrant colors captivate any curious infant. Although some slight sharpness in the plastic might concern some users, the flexible, BPA-free material generally ensures safe play. In our testing, it offers a simple yet effective way to support physical development in your newborn.
The Good
• Equipped with 32 finger holes that help small hands hold it easily.
• Features vibrant colors that attract the baby to play with.
The Bad
• The plastic may have sharp edges that may harm the fingers.
Safety Material: BPA-free / Educational Value: Motor Skills / Recommended Age Range: 0 months and up / Engagement Type: Physical Activity
Sensory Playtime: Engaging Playmats and Toys
Interactive playmats and toys that encourage exploration and sensory development for infants.
Helping Hands Sensory Scoops
$15.49
The Helping Hands Sensory Scoops transform any playtime into a fun learning adventure with their bright colors and large handles for easy grip. Perfect for sensory bins filled with sand, water, or rice, these durable scoopers enhance motor skills through play. While designed for children aged 3 and up, which limits suitability for younger infants, the versatile construction ensures long-lasting enjoyment. Customers seeking authenticity might question quality but will find the scoops' utility undeniable in diverse activities.
The Good
• Durable and sturdy construction suitable for long-term use.
• Bright colors and large handles enhance visibility and ease of use.
• Versatile tools suitable for various sensory materials like sand, water, and rice.
The Bad
• Some users find the product's quality not original.
• A few customers question the necessity of the product.
• Limited to children aged 3 and up, not suitable for younger infants.
Safety Material: BPA-free / Educational Value: Motor Skills / Recommended Age Range: 3 years and up / Engagement Type: Sensory
Farmstand Grow & Play Activity Gym by Skip Hop
$90.00
Turn your baby’s playtime into a vibrant adventure with the Farmstand Grow & Play Activity Gym from Skip Hop. Featuring a farm-themed design with colorful, interactive toys, this easy-to-assemble gym fosters sensory development. While some users report issues with the musical bunny toy, the machine-washable mat ensures easy cleanup. Despite slightly thin padding, particularly on hard floors, this activity gym remains a delightful addition to nurture your child's early exploration and growth.
The Good
• The activity gym is easy to assemble and made with soft, baby-safe materials.
• The farm-themed design is engaging and includes colorful, interactive toys.
• The mat is machine washable, making it convenient for cleaning.
The Bad
• Some users reported issues with the musical bunny toy not functioning properly.
• The mat's padding may be thinner than expected, especially on hard floors.
• The play gym can be tricky to store when the arches are set up, as it doesn't fold easily.
Safety Material: Fabric / Educational Value: Sensory Development / Recommended Age Range: 0+ months / Engagement Type: Interactive
Infantino Pop-Up Ball Pit
$24.84
The Infantino Pop-Up Ball Pit is a wonderful addition to any playroom, offering energetic fun with easy setup and storage. We appreciate its vibrant design and included 50 balls that stimulate motor skill development, although more balls might be needed for a fuller experience. While some find the base uncomfortable on hard floors, its portability and convenience make it a great choice for energetic play, indoors or out. Folding it up can be tricky but gets easier with practice.
The Good
• Easy to set up and fold for quick storage and portability.
• Comes with 50 colorful balls for immediate play.
• Bright, colorful design that encourages motor skill development.
The Bad
• Included 50 balls may not fill the pit to desired level.
• Base isn't padded, which may be uncomfortable on hard floors.
• Some users found folding it back into the storage bag challenging.
Safety Material: Fabric / Educational Value: Motor Skills / Recommended Age Range: 9+ months / Engagement Type: Physical Activity
Sassy Bumpy Ball
$6.27
Kickstart sensory learning with the Sassy Bumpy Ball, designed with bright colors and interesting textures to engage little hands and minds. While some parents have raised concerns about the toy's long-term durability, its ability to stimulate tactile and auditory senses remains a standout feature. Though not washable, its engaging design makes it a worthwhile choice for enhancing early motor skills and offering a delightful play experience for babies ready to explore.
The Good
• The toy's bright colors and varied textures effectively engage babies' developing senses.
The Bad
• Some users have reported concerns about the durability and safety of the toy's materials.
Safety Material: Fabric / Educational Value: Motor Skills / Recommended Age Range: 6 months and up / Engagement Type: Sensory
Fisher-Price Kick & Play Piano Gym
$57.84
In our testing, the Fisher-Price Kick & Play Piano Gym proved to be a versatile companion for your baby's growth. The detachable piano offers portable musical fun, and the machine-washable playmat simplifies cleaning. While its size may limit tummy time as your child grows, the engaging sounds and interactive features boost motor skills. Note that some assembly might be a bit fiddly, but the benefits for sensory development are undeniable.
The Good
• The playmat is machine-washable, making it easy to clean.
• The piano can be detached for on-the-go musical fun.
The Bad
• The mat may be a bit small for tummy time as the child grows.
• Some parents find the assembly slightly fiddly.
• The piano’s sound can be quite loud on the highest setting.
Safety Material: BPA-free / Educational Value: Motor Skills / Recommended Age Range: 0+ months / Engagement Type: Interactive
Lamaze Mortimer the Moose
$15.32
During our review of Lamaze Mortimer the Moose, we found it to be a captivating companion for sensory exploration. Equipped with crinkly feet and chewable antlers, it engages babies with multiple textures and sounds. While the squeaker may occasionally underperform, the clip-on design ensures easy attachment to strollers and carriers. Mortimer provides an excellent opportunity for on-the-go sensory stimulation, despite requiring hand washing.
The Good
• Features multiple textures and sounds to engage baby's senses.
• Equipped with soft, teethable antlers to soothe teething babies.
• Includes a clip-on design for easy attachment to strollers and carriers.
The Bad
• Some users reported the squeaker may not function adequately at times.
• The fabric softness was disappointing for some people.
• Must be hand washed.
Safety Material: Fabric / Educational Value: Sensory Development / Recommended Age Range: 0 months and up / Engagement Type: Sensory
Bright Starts Winnie The Pooh Water Mat
$9.99
The Bright Starts Winnie The Pooh Water Mat adds a playful twist to tummy time. This compact, travel-friendly mat features floating fruit pieces that captivate and engage during seated play. While not ideal for older infants needing more advanced activities, the water play aspect delights little ones up to 12 months. However, caution with sharp objects is advised due to the mat’s puncture potential, though its sensory benefits are noteworthy.
The Good
• Engages babies during tummy time and seated play.
• Features 3 floating fruit pieces for interactive play.
• Compact design perfect for travel and high chair use.
The Bad
• Not suitable for older infants who may outgrow basic tummy time activities and require more engaging play options.
• Not designed for aggressive play; water mat can be punctured easily if handled roughly or with sharp objects.
• Not recommended for babies with allergies to vinyl, as the mat is made from materials that may cause skin irritation.
Safety Material: BPA-free / Educational Value: Motor Skills / Recommended Age Range: 0-12 months / Engagement Type: Sensory
Oball
$37.00
Ignite your baby's curiosity with the Oball, known for its vibrant allure and easy-to-grasp construction. While some sharp edges were reported during our review, its BPA-free material reassures safety for newborns. Although it lacks official safety certifications, the toy's flexible design promotes motor skills through exploration. A fun companion for visually stimulating play, the Oball's nurturing grasp and rolling capabilities raise it to must-have status.
The Good
• Easy for babies to grasp due to its flexible design with large finger holes.
• Made from BPA-free materials, ensuring safety for infants.
• Vibrant colors attract babies' attention and stimulate visual development.
The Bad
• Some users reported sharp edges on the plastic, posing a potential risk.
• Lack of specific safety certifications may concern some parents.
• Not suitable for water immersion, limiting cleaning options.
Safety Material: BPA-free / Educational Value: Motor Skills / Recommended Age Range: Newborn and up / Engagement Type: Sensory
pipSquigz Loops
$12.95
Elevate your child's sensory play with the entertaining pipSquigz Loops. In our experience, these BPA-free, textured toy loops are a hit with babies aged 6 months and up, thanks to their engaging rattle and spin. Though the suction cup may not adhere to all surfaces, it's a delightful way to make stationary play exciting. Easy to wash, it's perfect for stimulating sensory development with every 'POP' and featuring safe materials that assure peace of mind.
The Good
• The toy is well-designed and loved by babies.
The Bad
• The suction cup may not stick well to all surfaces.
Safety Material: BPA-free / Educational Value: Sensory Development / Recommended Age Range: 6 months and up / Engagement Type: Sensory
Teething Time: Safe and Soothing Toys
Teethers designed to soothe sore gums and provide safe, chewable fun for teething babies.
OSTTRPO Baby Teether Toys Set
$13.99
Crafted with complex craftsmanship, the OSTTRPO Baby Teether Toys Set offers a natural, non-toxic teething solution for your little one. Made from untreated wood, these teethers are designed for easy gripping by tiny hands, promoting sensory exploration and developing fine motor skills. Although natural wood teethers are harder to sanitize compared to their silicone counterparts, their smooth, chemical-free surface ensures a safe and gentle teething experience. Limited customer reviews leave room for user feedback to guide future improvements.
The Good
• Made from natural, untreated wood, ensuring a non-toxic and safe teething experience.
• Designed with baby's tiny hands in mind, making it easy for them to hold and manipulate.
• Hand-made with complex craftsmanship, ensuring a smooth surface without harmful paints or chemicals.
The Bad
• Wooden teethers aren't as easy to sanitize compared to silicone or plastic alternatives.
• The natural wood material may not be as flexible or soft as silicone teethers, potentially affecting comfort.
• Limited availability of customer reviews makes it challenging to assess user satisfaction.
Safety Material: Natural Wood / Educational Value: Motor Skills / Recommended Age Range: 36 months and up / Engagement Type: Sensory
Nuby Ice Gel Teether Keys
$5.99
Nuby Ice Gel Teether Keys offer easy-to-grasp designs and a variety of textures, perfect for soothing sore gums with a chilled sensation. Built from BPA-free, non-toxic materials, these keys provide safe relief for teething babies. However, their bulky design might be challenging for smaller hands, and although sterilization options are limited, the straightforward cleaning process preserves their value. Despite the cooling effect being short-lived, they remain an economical choice at just $5.99.
The Good
• The teether keys are easy for babies to hold and grasp.
• The keys can be chilled in the refrigerator for soothing relief during teething.
• Made from BPA-free and non-toxic materials, ensuring safety for babies.
The Bad
• The keys cannot be sterilized, limiting cleaning options.
• Some users find the keys bulky, making it difficult for smaller babies to handle.
• The cooling effect doesn't last very long after being chilled.
Safety Material: BPA-free / Educational Value: Motor Skills / Recommended Age Range: 3 months and up / Engagement Type: Sensory
Sophie la Girafe Teether
$24.99
Pamper your teething baby with the classic Sophie la Girafe Teether, crafted from 100% natural rubber and food-grade paint. Our experience reveals its perfect size for small hands and a soft texture for tender gums, making it a soothing companion from birth. Although the squeaker can allow moisture inside, careful cleaning keeps this French favorite in prime teething condition, offering comfort during teething troubles while stimulating sensory development.
The Good
• Made from 100% natural rubber and food-grade paint, ensuring safety for babies.
• Easy for small hands to grip and hold, promoting motor skill development.
• Features a squeaker that stimulates hearing and provides entertainment.
The Bad
• Squeaker hole can allow water ingress, leading to potential mold growth if not cleaned properly.
• Some users report the paint fading or washing off over time.
• The toy is not dishwasher safe and requires careful cleaning to maintain hygiene.
Safety Material: BPA-free / Educational Value: Sensory Development / Recommended Age Range: 0 months and up / Engagement Type: Sensory
Building Blocks: Toys for Growing Toddlers
Building blocks and educational toys to foster creativity, problem-solving, and fine motor skills.
VTech Turn and Learn Driver
$7.79
Drive learning home with the VTech Turn and Learn Driver, the perfect toy to engage your toddler's imagination with interactive play modes. The steering wheel, gear shifter, and signal lever boost fine motor skills while teaching road safety with lights and sounds. Though it might be quickly outgrown as it caters to ages 6 to 36 months, the toy's versatility ensures continuous fun in strollers or car seats, even if battery replacements become a consideration.
The Good
• Features multiple interactive elements like a steering wheel, gear shifter, and signal lever to engage children.
• Offers three play modes—animal, driving, and music—to provide varied learning experiences.
• Durable design withstands drops and rough play, ensuring longevity.
The Bad
• Limited age range; designed for children aged 6 months to 3 years, may be outgrown quickly.
• Requires 2 AA batteries for operation, which are not included for long-term use.
• Limited portability; designed primarily for strollers and car seats, limiting versatility.
Safety Material: Non-toxic paint / Educational Value: Motor Skills / Recommended Age Range: 6-36 months / Engagement Type: Interactive
Stroll & Discover Activity Walker
$35.99
For those early steps, the Stroll & Discover Activity Walker is a must-have developmental aid. Packed with versatile features, it transitions seamlessly from a floor-play activity station to a supportive walker, promoting motor skills and mobility. While we found it may move too quickly on non-carpeted floors or lack braking for beginners, the adjustable speed control and removable activity panel make it an engaging, practical choice that grows with your child.
The Good
• The activity panel is removable, allowing for both floor play and walker use.
• The walker includes adjustable two-speed control to accommodate different walking stages.
The Bad
• The wheels may lack sufficient braking or locking mechanisms for beginners learning to stand.
• The phone attachment can detach easily, posing a risk of loss.
• The walker may struggle on non-carpeted surfaces due to wheel stiffness or excessive speed.
Safety Material: BPA-free / Educational Value: Motor Skills / Recommended Age Range: 9-36 months / Engagement Type: Interactive
VTech Pop-a-Balls Bulldozer
$11.24
Fuel your toddler's curiosity with the VTech Pop-a-Balls Bulldozer, a toy that's both fun and educational. Our testing shows that this engaging bulldozer encourages essential motor skills as it pops balls through its chimney. Though the handle might challenge early walkers and the sound levels could be louder than expected, the interactive play, with numbers and color buttons, is an excellent way to develop skills in toddlers aged 12 to 36 months, while promising hours of entertainment.
The Good
• Encourages motor skill development through interactive play.
• Features colorful buttons that introduce colors and numbers.
• Includes motion sensors that trigger engaging sounds and melodies.
The Bad
• Handle may not be sturdy enough for early walkers.
• Balls can get jammed if incorrect sizes are used.
• Sound levels may be louder than expected, even on lower settings.
Safety Material: BPA-free / Educational Value: Motor Skills / Recommended Age Range: 12-36 months / Engagement Type: Interactive
Musical Wonders: Toys to Delight and Entertain
Musical instruments and toys that introduce babies to rhythm, melody, and auditory exploration.
Fisher-Price Rattle 'n Rock Maracas
$8.63
Introduce your baby to rhythm and motion with Fisher-Price Rattle 'n Rock Maracas. We found that their lightweight and easy-to-grasp design encourages gross motor skill development in babies aged 3-12 months. Soft ends ensure safety during play, although some might find the rattle sound quieter than expected. Ideal for enhancing sensory exploration, these maracas are a gentle yet effective tool for the budding musician in your home.
The Good
• Soft ends prevent injury if baby hits themselves while playing.
• Easy for babies to grasp and hold due to lightweight design.
The Bad
• Rattle sound is quieter than expected, which may not engage all babies.
• Some users find the maracas larger than expected for newborns.
Safety Material: BPA-free / Educational Value: Motor Skills / Recommended Age Range: 3-12 months / Engagement Type: Sensory
Fisher-Price Cool Beats Penguin
$12.99
In our review of the Fisher-Price Cool Beats Penguin, we discovered an interactive toy brimming with lights, music, and movement. Perfect for babies 9 months and older, it promotes language development through engaging lessons on the alphabet, shapes, and more. However, some functionality issues may require frequent resets, and the need for 4 AA batteries, not included, should be noted. Despite these points, it's a delightful addition for encouraging early learning and physical activity.
The Good
• Engages children with interactive music and lights.
• Teaches the alphabet, counting, shapes, and opposites.
• Encourages physical activity through dancing and movement.
The Bad
• Some units may have functionality issues requiring frequent resets.
• Heavier and harder than expected, not as soft as anticipated.
• Requires 4 AA batteries, which are not included.
Safety Material: BPA-free / Educational Value: Language Development / Recommended Age Range: 9 months and older / Engagement Type: Interactive
Baby Einstein Take Along Tunes
$9.96
Tune into early musical exploration with Baby Einstein Take Along Tunes. This award-winning, easy-to-grasp toy captivates children with 10 classical melodies and dancing lights, ideal for sensory development from the age of 3 months. While the selection of melodies might seem repetitive and requires battery changes, its portability and robust design are perfect for on-the-go auditory entertainment that babies love. Just adjust the volume to make your little one's experience more enjoyable.
The Good
• Features engaging melodies that capture baby's attention.
• Made from high-quality materials, ensuring durability.
• Lightweight and portable, ideal for travel.
The Bad
• Limited selection of melodies may become repetitive.
• Requires batteries for operation.
• Lights and sounds may be overwhelming for some infants.
Safety Material: BPA-free / Educational Value: Sensory Development / Recommended Age Range: 3-36 months / Engagement Type: Interactive
