Calm Anxiety, get better Sleep, Improve Focus & Productivity, combat Overstimulation, and stay Grounded through moments of distress, all with the help of a therapeutically weighted plushie!
ABOUT US:
Hi Friends! We’re Awful Sloth: a neurodivergent, queer, and woman-owned small business! We create weighted stuffed animals, as well as other weighted, awareness, and fidget items. Always handmade with love in upstate NY.
Each of our plushie friends are designed specifically by, and for, neurodivergent, disabled, or individuals struggling with mental health. Our goal is to bring comfort, validation, and hope to our customers while sharing the stories of those who have gone unheard for far too long.
ABOUT THE SLOTHS:
Each of our weighted sloths comes with a story tag telling their "personal story", related to a specific diagnosis. Every tag discusses hardships faced, healthy coping mechanisms to use in difficult moments, and dealing with unjust stigmas. The purpose behind adding a special story to each sloth is for validation, representation, and so those with similar struggles don’t feel so alone. We use our platform to help raise up the voices of those struggling, collectively sharing their stories and perspectives in an easy-to-understand and light-hearted way. We aim to normalize and encourage education on heavy topics by using simple terms, without romanticizing or sugar-coating the reality of struggles and symptoms.
Each sloth also comes with a removable crystal heart in their “heart pocket” as a little token of love and validation. Real crystal formations are used as an ancient healing practice, as many believe they admit energy with healing properties. They can be used as a comfort item, fidget, or just a little tangible reminder that you're not alone.
WHY WEIGHTED?:
Weighted lap pads, blankets, vests, and stuffed animals are beneficial for individuals who may be experiencing heightened anxiety, panic attacks, sensory needs, or trouble focusing. Weighted products can help apply deep pressure which can calm anxiety, supply sensory input, improve focus, and provide comfort in moments of distress. They are also helpful for grounding techniques, sleep support, and self-soothing relaxation.
OUR MISSION STATEMENT:
Our goal is to fight the stigma surrounding mental health and neurodiversity. We aim to normalize self-care and self-advocacy, aspiring to shape a world that can accept and accommodate disabilities, while celebrating everyone's differences.
CARE INSTRUCTIONS AND FAQ'S:
- How do I wash my weighted plush?
We recommend spot cleaning if possible. If your sloth needs a deeper clean, they are machine washable on a cold, gentle cycle. Please note that machine washing your sloth may adjust the placement of their weighted center.
- Can I change my shipping address after I place my order?
Unfortunately, we cannot take address changes.
- What if I want my sloth or frog to be heavier or lighter?
To customize a plush order's weight, you may add ONE "Additional Weight" listing per sloth/frog plush. Additional weight must be ordered with a pairing plush in the SAME transaction (in other words, both listings must be in your cart when you check out).
There are 3 additional weight listings to choose from-- One for a 4lb sloth, one for a 5lb soth, and one for a 2lb frog. Please choose the listing that correlates to the product you would like to add additional weight to.
To have your sloth come without additional weight, you may write "lightly weighted" in the "note to seller" box during checkout.
- Can I pick my sloth or ghost's crystal heart?
To choose a different, or specified, crystal heart to replace the crystal heart your sloth automatically comes with, you may write the name of any crystal hearts we offer in the "note to seller" box during checkout.
- Where do you ship?
We can ship weighted products within the US or Canada.
We can ship non-weighted products anywhere in the world!
- What happens when I order a custom sloth?
We will contact you using the email you provided within 48 hours of purchase. We require a response within 24 hours of our first email, or your order will be canceled.
- What materials do you use?
Our most commonly used fabrics used are Polyester based: minky-dot, baby-minky, snuggle-fleece, and anti-pill fleece.
- Will my sloth be scented?
No, all of our products are unscented.
DISCLAIMERS AND WARNINGS:
-Our handmade products are one of a kind and will likely have small imperfections or inconsistencies. You will be receiving the same pattern as the pictured product but may not receive that exact one in the photo.
-For ages 6+ with parental supervision due to small parts. Crystal heart and plastic bean filling may pose a choking hazard. Keep small parts away from young children and pets*
-Sloths should be 5% or less of one's body weight. We are in no way medical professionals and cannot diagnose individuals or assess personal risks of using a weighted plush (ie: pre-existing conditions, size and weight of personal etc.). If you have questions or concerns please contact a health professional.
-All products are made in a dog friendly home, please be aware if you or a family member are allergic.
-No returns or exchanges can be made after purchase.
-Weighted insert may shift over time.
-Please allow 5-10 business days for your order to be shipped. We are not responsible for items lost or damaged during the shipping process. We are not responsible for delays in shipping due to the postal service.