PortaPlay Toy Review: Chewy Blossom vs Popping Squirrel – Which Sensory Toy Wins?

When it comes to keeping your little one entertained and engaged, PortaPlay toys from Shop Oribel have become a go-to for parents who value portability, safety, and developmental benefits. Among the most popular options are the PortaPlay Toy- Chewy Blossom and the PortaPlay Toy- Down the Rabbit Hole, but another fan favorite is the Popping Squirrel (often referred to as the PortaPlay Toy- Loopy Hatter’s playful cousin). In this review, we pit the Chewy Blossom against the Popping Squirrel to help you decide which sensory toy deserves a spot in your diaper bag.

Both toys are designed for babies aged 0+ and attach easily to strollers, car seats, or play gyms. But they offer very different sensory experiences: Chewy Blossom focuses on teething relief and tactile exploration, while Popping Squirrel (part of the PortaPlay line) delivers auditory and visual stimulation. Let’s dive into the details.

Chewy Blossom: The Teething Hero

The PortaPlay Toy- Chewy Blossom is a soft, silicone-based toy that features multiple textures and a flower-like design. Its primary purpose is to soothe sore gums during teething, but it also encourages grasping and hand-eye coordination. The petals are made from food-grade silicone, free from BPA and phthalates, making it safe for your baby to chew on. The center of the flower has a rattle that produces a gentle sound, adding an auditory element without overwhelming your baby.

Parents love that the Chewy Blossom can be attached to almost anything using the included clip. It’s lightweight and easy to clean—just wipe it down or toss it in the dishwasher. For babies who are constantly putting things in their mouths, this toy provides a safe, satisfying outlet. It also helps with sensory development by exposing babies to different textures: smooth, ridged, and bumpy surfaces all in one compact toy.

• Tip: Attach the Chewy Blossom to a stroller canopy or car seat handle so your baby can reach it during walks or drives.

Popping Squirrel: The Auditory Adventurer

The Popping Squirrel (often compared to the PortaPlay Toy- Loopy Hatter for its whimsical design) is a different beast entirely. This toy features a spring-loaded squirrel that pops out of a hideout when your baby pulls a ring or presses a button. The popping action is accompanied by a satisfying sound that delights babies and encourages cause-and-effect learning. It’s perfect for older babies (6+ months) who are starting to understand that their actions can make things happen.

The Popping Squirrel also includes a crinkle tail and a squeaker, offering multiple sensory inputs. The bright colors and high-contrast patterns help with visual development, while the popping motion strengthens fine motor skills as babies learn to grasp and pull. Like all PortaPlay toys, it attaches securely with a clip and is machine-washable for easy cleanup. Many parents report that the popping sound is a crowd-pleaser during car rides or doctor’s appointments.

• Tip: Use the Popping Squirrel to distract your baby during diaper changes or while waiting in line. The surprise pop often turns a fussy moment into giggles.

Head-to-Head Comparison: Chewy Blossom vs Popping Squirrel

Both toys are excellent, but they serve different developmental stages and needs. The Chewy Blossom is ideal for younger babies (0-6 months) who are teething and exploring with their mouths. It’s a stationary toy that provides comfort and sensory input through texture and gentle rattle sounds. In contrast, the Popping Squirrel is more interactive and suits older babies (6-12 months) who are ready for cause-and-effect play and need more auditory stimulation.

When it comes to portability, both toys are winners. They clip onto strollers, car seats, and play mats with ease. However, the Chewy Blossom is slightly more compact, making it easier to slip into a diaper bag. The Popping Squirrel has a few more parts (the spring mechanism), but it’s still durable and travel-friendly. In terms of cleaning, the Chewy Blossom wins for simplicity—just wash and go—while the Popping Squirrel requires a bit more care to keep the mechanism dry.

Price-wise, both are similarly priced, offering great value for the developmental benefits they provide. If you’re looking for a toy that grows with your baby, consider starting with the Chewy Blossom and adding the Popping Squirrel a few months later. Or, if you want a single toy that offers varied stimulation, the PortaPlay Toy- Down the Rabbit Hole combines multiple textures and sounds in one package.

• Best for teething: Chewy Blossom
• Best for cause-and-effect: Popping Squirrel
• Best for multiple textures: Down the Rabbit Hole

Which One Should You Choose?

Your choice ultimately depends on your baby’s age and current developmental focus. For newborns to 6-month-olds who are teething or just beginning to explore with their hands, the Chewy Blossom is a must-have. It’s safe, soothing, and easy to clean. For babies 6 months and older who are ready for interactive play, the Popping Squirrel offers a fun way to learn cause and effect while developing fine motor skills.

Many parents find that having both toys in their rotation is ideal. They can swap them out based on mood or activity. For example, use the Chewy Blossom during calm moments like stroller walks, and bring out the Popping Squirrel for high-energy playtime. If you’re on a budget, the PortaPlay Toy- Loopy Hatter is another excellent option that combines visual and auditory stimulation with a whimsical design.

• Pro tip: Rotate toys weekly to keep your baby engaged. Switch between Chewy Blossom, Popping Squirrel, and other PortaPlay toys to maintain novelty.

Both the Chewy Blossom and Popping Squirrel are top-notch sensory toys that support your baby’s development in unique ways. Whether you choose the teething-friendly Chewy Blossom or the interactive Popping Squirrel, you’ll be giving your little one a safe, engaging, and portable play experience. Explore the full PortaPlay collection at Shop Oribel to find the perfect match for your baby’s needs.