10 Best Sensory Toys for Babies in 2023

As a new parent it can be overwhelming to try to research the best toys on google. [Maybe you even found this blog through a google search!] This blog will focus on what we believe are the best sensory toys on the market right now.

What are sensory toys?

The simplest definition is that it’s a toy that is designed to stimulate your baby’s senses.

1. Touch
2. Taste
3. Smell
4. Sight
5. Sound

What makes something a sensory toy?

Why, when a company slaps a sensory toy label on their product of course!

But seriously, newborns explore the world through their senses! A good sensory toy will engage them and help form connections in their little brain.

What makes a good sensory toy?

We generally have two rules for toys:

1. They are SAFE.
2. Your baby plays with the toy, the toy doesn’t play for your child. Read more about that philosophy here. You’ll notice that none of these toys light up, make noise, or require batteries.

Best Sensory Toys on the Market:

1. Lovevery Play Kits

For us this is always our number one choice. Yes they’re pricey, but they LAST. My daughter is 9 and whenever we visit a home with a toddler’s Lovevery Playkits she finds a way to engage with them. Photo of her and a little one included here for added cuteness!

Lovevery has a TEAM of developmental specialists putting these play kits together. And they give you literature on how to enjoy the toys with your baby, what your baby’s milestones should be at this age, and what the toys are helping your baby achieve.

2. Lovevery Play Mat

Not necessarily a “toy” but a newborn necessity. We are strong believers that babies that can play independently can sleep independently! This play mat sets babies up for success in that department.

3. Sophie the Giraffe by Vulli

Can be purchases at AMAZON for $25

Did you know Sophie is the most popular newborn toy worldwide? It’s easy to hold and the rubber actually tastes good [have you tried it] Two things to know about Sophie.

1. Monitor your baby because sometimes they can get the leg right down their throat. It’s less of a danger and more of an annoyance if your baby gags up their breakfast bottle.
2. Sophie can’t be submerged or go into the dishwasher. Once there is water inside her she’s done for.

4. Miniland Sensory Balls

Can be purchased at AMAZON for $47.33.

These balls are different textures that baby can explore with their hands and mouths. They’re made from natural rubber and easy to wash.

5. Dimple by Fat Brain Toys

Can be purchased at AMAZON for $12.89

A great way to get your babies hooked on pop-it’s young! Kidding…kind of. Babies are enamored with this toy. I love to leave it in the carseat or on the changing table when you want to keep little hands and minds occupied.

6. Winkel by Manhattan Toys

Can be purchased at AMAZON for $9.99

The shape of this is perfection. This is likely going to be one of the first toys that your baby can grasp and hold onto.

7. Inflatable Water Mat by Splashin’Kids

Can be purchased at AMAZON for $10.65

This is perfect for babies that are doing tummy-time and have some head control. Watching them try to whack at the floating creatures is adorable. [But why is there a duck in the ocean? I guess we’ll never know.]

8. Mortimer the Moose by Lamaze Toys

Can be purchased at AMAZON for $14.59

You don’t need Mortimer exactly [although he is a classic], but you’ll want a go-to toy that you can clip onto strollers and carseats that your baby can touch and chew on when you’re out of the house. Toys very easily drop to the ground and once they’re germy you may not want to return them to your baby until they get a wash at home.

9. Crinkle Book by Lamaze Toys

Can be purchases at AMAZON for $17.99

Every family I’ve worked for has had a few of these lying around. They don’t get a ton of use to be honest. But I think it’s nice to have one- to encourage reading in a safe way. Very young babies can suck on board books and chew off pieces or hurt their mouths. You can read words to your baby as they’re explore it in their own way and practice the art of page turning.

10. Baby Contrast Cards

Can be purchased at AMAZON for $9.99

You don’t need this brand, or even this particular product. Just something with contrast. Babies can’t see color in their early days, so focusing on contrast cards is one of the first things they can do to engage. Before they can touch or mouth objects, they can see.

I like things that can be stood up independent of parents so that they can step back and observe their baby.