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By now, we’ve all been clued into the Labubu craze — those creepy (but also adorable, depending on who you ask) little toothy monsters beloved by everyone from Cher to your local second grader. But before Labubus took over your For You page (and life), there was another plush toy obsession that ruled the mid-2000s. And thanks to a recent TikTok trend, it’s clawing its way back to the top.
Webkinz, the ultra-popular line of stuffed animals released by manufacturer Ganz in 2005, is officially back. And if you didn’t live through the original demand, let me paint a quick picture of their popularity for you. Waiting for Pop Mart to drop new Labubu’s had nothing on a Webkinz release — the lines were long, the demand was brutal, and the supply was tragic. They were nearly impossible to get.
Webkinz Pride Lion Plush, Premium Stuffed Toy Animal
One of the newest Webkinz releases.
The real magic wasn’t just in the plushies themselves, though — it was in the secret code. Each Webkinz came with a special tag that unlocked a virtual world online. You’d enter the custom number, name your new best friend, decorate their dream home, and play games like “Cash Cow,” where you could earn fake money to buy fake furniture for your fake house. It taught us the power of capitalism young, but in a cute, productive way…
For a few years, Webkinz reigned supreme. But like all toy empires, it eventually fell — replaced by other viral sensations like Shopkins (tiny groceries with faces — still not sure what that was about, but the kids were obsessed).
Fast forward to now: TikTok is flooded with nostalgic Gen Zers and elder millennials, approximately ages 20 to 40, logging back into their childhood accounts (or buying new Webkinz on Amazon like it’s 2007 again). Some people even managed to remember their original login info — which is, honestly, just impressive.
Webkinz Love Frog
An original fan-favorite to take home.
If you want to join in, you’ve got options. You can hunt down OG Webkinz on Walmart or Amazon — think Valentine’s Day Frog, Marshmallow Bunny, or the iconic Chocolate Lab. They’ll cost you anywhere from $30 to $75, with some resale options even going for upwards of $100.
The newer Webkinz are a bit cheaper (around $25) and come with wider eyes and a more compact build. Both versions still let you explore the Webkinz world online, so go wild — just, uh, don’t give out your login info. I learned that the hard way in sixth grade when my virtual mansion got robbed by classmates. I’m 30 now, and honestly, I’m still not over it.
Webkinz Brown Chocolate Lab
This product is selling out fast.
And if you’ve never played Webkinz before, now’s your chance. The TikTok trend is all about rediscovering simple joys when the world around you feels like it’s crumbling. And really, who couldn’t use a virtual pet and some pixelated furniture right now?
Studies even show that playing games helps reduce stress and anxiety. When I was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes at 12, people showered me with Webkinz (you could call it an offering). Was I worried about my chronic illness? Nope. I was too busy looking at my new Webkinz haul, so the proof is really in the pudding of the power of their distraction.
Grab one (or five) for yourself before the trend takes off again. Maybe they’ll become the next big thing, or maybe they’re just a fun pastime right now, like Animal Crossing was during the pandemic. Either way, you’re never too old to indulge in a little throwback.
Webkinz Marshmallow Bunny
A great deal for a limited-edition plush.
Webkinz Black Cat
A black cat just in time for Halloween? Sign us up.
Webkinz Rocky Mountain Horse
A customer favorite on Amazon.
Webkinz Chimpanzee
Over 92% of customers gave it a five-star review.
Webkinz Candy Goggles
Available only at Walmart.
Webkinz Spotted Leopard
Editor’s personal favorite pick.
Webkinz Red Panda
A classic option.