Can’t decide between a silicone baby doll or a vinyl one? Let's compare both

Reborn baby dolls are, we all know, very common and famous throughout the world. To give the reborn dolls the appearance of a real baby, the material that is used to create them is really important.

Most people don't know what materials were used to make their particular doll. Therefore, you should be sufficiently informed about the materials used in their construction before investing in one of these realistic dolls. They are commonly made of two materials some are silicone baby dolls and others are vinyl.

Now, the point here is, if you are to buy a reborn baby doll, which type of baby doll should you prefer to purchase? The type you want to purchase is up to you.

However, before selecting the content, you ought to be aware of their distinctions. In this blog, I’ll discuss the main differences between vinyl and silicone dolls. Some of the topics we’ll be discussing are:

• Softness: Silicone vs. Vinyl
• Weight and Flexibility
• Body Material and Structure
• Bathing Ability
• Durability and Care
• Pacifier Compatibility
• Posing and Holding
• Price Comparison

Silicone Baby Doll Vs. Vinyl Doll 

Both of these materials are highly similar, but they differ in a few ways that make one superior to the other.

The Softness of Baby Dolls

You can feel the biggest difference between silicone baby dolls and reborn vinyl dolls by touching them.

Silicone dolls are far softer than those made of vinyl. This is the reason silicone baby dolls feel more squishy, jiggly, and soft because of the material's characteristics. They feel more cuddly and more realistic to a newborn as a result, according to reports.

Vinyl dolls tend to be more rigid and inflexible. They feel firmer because their hollow limbs are filled with a glass substance that resembles sand.

Even though some dolls might still have "press-in" limbs, silicone doll is far more softer and plumper than this type of doll. Even your children will be able to distinguish the difference only by touching.

Weight of Baby Dolls

Silicone baby dolls are heavier than vinyl dolls. Dolls made of silicone are incredibly pliable and flexible. There's something practically "boneless" about them. Therefore, vinyl dolls are more manageable to grasp and carry than a silicone infant.

Silicone dolls are wiggly. This makes them difficult to carry when going out. But you can carry them by proper covering it in blanket.

Vinyl dolls are not normally flexible. Their limbs are more difficult to move, and stretching them too far will shatter them! But you can carry them easily as compared to silicone baby doll. Even little babies can also carry them.

Body Material of Baby Dolls

The majority of silicone dolls have whole silicone bodies. In this method, a single full-body mold is made, into which the newborn is molded. But there are some silicone dolls with cloth bodies also.

Every vinyl doll will have a body made of cotton. Although some artists or companies may choose to cover this cloth body with vinyl, it's crucial to remember that the doll's ability to bath depends on whether or not there is still fabric behind the vinyl.

Bath Ability of Dolls

Silicone baby can be fully submerged in water and given baths because it's body is completely made of silicone (if you have bought cloth body silicone baby doll, then it cannot be bathed).

But because their skin is so thin, it's better to remember that they shouldn't take more baths. Frequent bathing can damage your silicone baby, so take care of your baby. if you want to know more caring tips of your silicone baby dolls, have a look at this blog "How to care for your Silicone Baby Dolls"

Vinyl babies cannot be bathed or submerged in water due to their cloth bodies. To clean them up, you can use sponge to bathe them over their heads and limbs.

Durability of Baby Dolls

Silicone baby dolls are more delicate! They could rip, tear, or peel if you don’t take care of them properly. There are some powders made to protect the skin of your baby! You can have that, if you want extra life of your silicone baby doll. Plus, for more durability, avoid replacing their clothes no more than once or twice a week.

Silicone skin attracts hair and lint like a magnet. You need to take more care of your silicone baby. Regular skin care keeps your doll hygienic!

Vinyl dolls are far stronger. Because they require less care, these dolls are honestly more "child-friendly" for parents wishing to purchase one for their child.
They can live between 10 and 30 years if properly cared for and do not shred, tear, or peel as quickly.

Pacifier of Baby Dolls 

The mouths of silicone baby may open and close due to flexibility. This enables it to accept a bottle or have a pacifier.

Vinyl dolls are stiff, thus their lips are usually fixed, either open or closed. To simulate this feature, certain vinyl dolls, often known as reborn, are made with pacifiers and magnetic mouths.

Capacity to Hold a Baby

There are no armatures or tiny wire fragments in the body or limbs of silicone doll. They appear "boneless" because of this, which lends them flexibility.

As a result, they usually only occupy the role that they were shaped for. An arm or leg will return to its resting position if you move it up or down. Silicone baby dolls feels more like a real baby, the warmness they offer makes them feel more real.

Armatures are used to produce vinyl dolls. This makes it easier to posture them. The doll will remain in place if you move an arm or leg.

Prices of Baby Dolls

Depending on the artist or seller, silicone vs. vinyl doll prices can differ.

Silicone baby dolls are more lifelike and softer like a real baby. Some silicone dolls require a lot of skill and time to make into gorgeous, lifelike dolls, they are usually more expensive.

Vinyl dolls are reasonably priced even if they are still artistic creations since they are frequently simpler and less expensive to make. These kinds of dolls are very popular and lovely complements to any doll collection.

Final Thoughts

Which doll you want to buy is your preferences. It is suggested if you are buying dolls as a gift for baby girl. Then prefer vinyl dolls. But if you are buying this baby dolls as your own baby or as a practice baby for expecting mother, the it’s better to go for a silicone baby. But if you bring any of these dolls outside with you, I’m damn sure the majority of people think of them as members of our family.
Have your own silicone baby doll with you and enjoy being a parent.

FAQ's

Can silicone and vinyl baby dolls be customized?

Yes, both silicone and vinyl reborn dolls can be customized. Artists often allow you to choose details like skin tone, hair type, eye color, and even facial expressions to make the doll look more personal and lifelike.

How do I store my silicone or vinyl baby doll safely?

To keep your doll in good condition, store it in a cool, dry place away from sunlight. Silicone dolls should rest on soft surfaces to avoid pressure on their limbs. Vinyl dolls should be kept away from heat, as it can damage the material.

Can reborn dolls wear real baby clothes?

Yes, both silicone and vinyl reborn dolls can wear real baby clothes. It’s a good idea to measure your doll first to get the right fit. Most reborn dolls fit newborn or preemie-sized clothes.

Are silicone or vinyl dolls safe for children?

Vinyl dolls are usually more suitable for children because they are durable and easier to care for. Silicone dolls are softer and more realistic but also more delicate, so they are better for collectors or adults.

How do I clean my silicone or vinyl reborn doll?

For silicone doll, you can gently clean them with a sponge and mild soap (if they have a full silicone body). Vinyl dolls shouldn’t be soaked in water. You can use a damp cloth to clean them. Always check the care instructions from the artist or manufacturer.

Do reborn dolls lose their color over time?

Yes, both vinyl and silicone dolls can fade, especially if they are left in direct sunlight or not cared for properly. To help them keep their color, store them out of sunlight and handle them gently to avoid rubbing off their paint.