Newborn Dolls

Newborn Play Dolls Buying Tips

Whether they play with their parents or friends or all by themselves, dolls can keep girls engaged for hours on end.

Newborn play dolls are certainly the most accessible type of doll. They are perfect to give as gifts to children and are an excellent starting point for beginning a collection. Yes, people even collect regular dolls, as some have limited runs or become rare and are considered collectors' items as they age. So whether you are buying collectible dolls or newborn dolls to play with, here are some helpful tips.

• Determine if the doll will be collected or played with. This is one of the most important factors to keep in mind. A newborn doll that will be kept as a collectible should not be played with.
• Consider the doll style. Some people prefer certain styles over others, while other people like to have multiple styles. The style can consist of the way the doll is made, the era it represents or was made in, the material it's made from, the hair, the clothes and even the accessories that may come with it.
• Know the brand or maker. Don't be fooled by knockoffs or fakes. Just as with most popular items, there may be dolls that are made to look authentic but are really imitations. Check the sources of authenticity to be certain you're getting what you're paying for.
• Consider doll accessories. Whether you're getting a doll for playing with or collecting, many have accessories that can be purchased separately, which may include anything from clothing to dollhouses. If the doll is collectible, having the accessories will add to the value.
• Consider the age and size. A doll for a newborn baby should not be same as one for a toddler or even the older child. Think about getting something cuddly for a toddler and regular toy or play dolls for an older child.
• Maintenance. Some newborn dolls require maintenance, almost like real babies. Think of those realistic baby dolls that essentially do everything a real baby does. Consider how easily it can be washed as well. Some people prefer to keep things simple.
• Investment. Consider the cost, any extras and if it will require additional purchases later. Also, think of how often the doll may be used and how it will be used. Dolls can be an investment for the future as well as an investment in hours of fun for a child.

Newborn Play Dolls vs Collectable Reborn Dolls

Reborn or fake babies, sometimes even referred to as real or not fake, seem to be the new hot thing. They may look, feel and smell like real babies, but they are dolls. The truth is: These dolls are suitable for collectors and older children - the doll is not sturdy enough for play for a younger child.

For instance, reborn or newborn dolls that are weighted to feel like a real baby usually contain stuffing materials such as plastic or glass pellets that could be dangerous if the doll's body ripped or was broken.

They may not be the most realistic-looking newborn dolls out there, however unlike reborn dolls, newborn play dolls are safe for your baby giving her something to feel, touch, squeeze, and look at.

The differences between dolls that are suitable for children to play with and collectible dolls are based on safety and playability.

Safety

• Sharp edges and points: Dolls that may break easily, such as porcelain, may expose sharp edges. Broken toys and pins or staples on doll's clothes and accessories may expose sharp point which can puncture a child.
• Small parts: Tiny toys or big toys with small removable parts can be swallowed or become lodged in a child's, ears or nose. Pay special attention on this if you have toddlers.

Playability

Another important factor which should be considered in determining deciding whether a doll is a play doll or a collector doll is "playability". For most children a doll's value is less when it lacks function. In other words, children like dolls that can do more than stand on display. A newborn dolls that have playability will keep child's attention for a long period of time and stimulate the imagination.

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