How Many of Your Baby’s Lovey Should You Have?

Has your little one latched onto a lovey? It’s a huge milestone when a baby picks a favorite soft toy or blanket as their go-to comfort object. This special item, also called a transitional object, provides them with a sense of security and comfort, especially during times of separation or stress. Once that bond forms, the thought of that treasured lovey disappearing can be a real source of anxiety for parents. What if it gets lost at daycare, is left behind at grandma’s, or meets an untimely end in a mud puddle? This leads to a super common question: just how many of your baby’s lovey should you have?

Here, we’ll explore the ins and outs of the lovey dilemma, offering some practical advice on finding that sweet spot between one irreplaceable treasure and an army of identical backups.

Why the Number of Loveys Matters

A lovey helps a child learn to self-soothe, which is an important skill for emotional regulation. It’s a tangible piece of home and safety they can carry with them. So when that object goes missing, it can be genuinely distressing for a child.

Having a backup seems like an obvious solution. A backup lovey can be a lifesaver in emergencies, like when the primary lovey is in the wash or has been left behind somewhere. On the other hand, having too many identical loveys might dilute the special status of the “one and only.” The attachment is often to a specific, well-loved object, complete with its unique smells and worn-in feel.

How do you balance these considerations? Let’s break down the different approaches parents take.

The Great Lovey Debate: One vs. Multiples

When it comes to the number of loveys, the most common ones are one, two, or three. Below are the reasonings behind each.

The One and Only

Some parents stick to a single, cherished lovey. The idea here is to honor the unique bond the child has formed with that specific object.

Pros

This method supports the idea of a truly special transitional object. The child’s attachment is deep and focused on one item, which can make it an incredibly powerful source of comfort. It also teaches a subtle lesson about caring for special possessions.

Cons

The risk is glaringly obvious. If this one-of-a-kind lovey is lost or damaged beyond repair, the fallout can be intense. Parents who choose this path need a solid plan for keeping track of the lovey at all times, which can be stressful.

The Identical Twins

A very popular strategy involves buying two identical loveys from the start. With this method, you can have one in the wash and one in the crib at all times.

Pros

This approach provides a practical backup for laundry days or minor misplacements. You can avoid the panic of a missing lovey while still maintaining a relatively special connection. It’s a good middle-ground solution.

Cons

The key to making this work is regular rotation. You have to swap the loveys frequently so they both acquire the same level of wear, tear, and familiar scent. If you don’t, your baby might reject the impostor backup when it’s called into service.

The Lovey Squad

Why stop at two? Some parents opt for a larger collection of three or more identical loveys. This is the ultimate backup plan.

Pros

This method offers maximum security. You can keep one at home, one at daycare, one at grandma’s house, and maybe even one in the car. This dramatically reduces the chances of ever being without a lovey in a moment of need.

Cons

As with the twins strategy, consistent rotation is crucial to maintain their equal status. Moreover, having so many loveys might diminish the specialness of any single one. It could also get expensive, and it requires more organization to keep track of them all.

Finding the Right Number for Your Family

So, what’s the magic number? How many of your baby’s lovey should you have? There isn’t one perfect answer for everyone. However, the consensus leans toward having at least one backup. Most parents find that having two or three loveys strikes the best balance.

In doing so, you can reap the following benefits:

• Wash them regularly: Let’s be real, these things get gross. They’re dragged on floors, chewed on, and covered in who-knows-what. Regular washing is essential for hygiene.
• Prevent a crisis: A lost lovey can trigger a full-blown meltdown. Having a spare ready to go can save the day (and your sanity).
• Distribute them in common places: You can leave one at a key location, like daycare, to lighten your daily load and reduce the risk of the lovey getting left behind.
• Manage wear and tear: By rotating them, you can extend the life of all the loveys, preventing one from becoming completely worn out while the others stay pristine.

The trick is to introduce the backups early and rotate them from the very beginning. This way, your baby gets used to the idea that “Bunny” is still “Bunny,” even if it smells freshly laundered.

Your Go-To Source for the Perfect Lovey

Now that you have a game plan, where do you find that perfect lovey to start your collection? You want something that is soft, safe, and durable enough to withstand years of cuddles and adventures.

At Bunnies by the Bay, we specialize in creating high-quality, adorable comfort objects that babies and parents adore. Our collection of loveys, like the popular Buddy Blankets and Knotty Friends, is designed with your little one’s comfort and safety in mind. They are crafted from super-soft materials, are easy for tiny hands to hold, and are durable enough to handle the lovey rotation system.

These are included in our wonderful selection of custom baby girl gifts. You can get your chosen lovey embroidered with her name, making it an extra-special keepsake. A personalized lovey can become a cherished part of her childhood, a sentimental friend she may even carry with her to college. Explore our collection today to find the perfect companion for your little one, and maybe grab a backup (or two) while you’re at it!