Margarete Steiff was born in 1847 and died in 1909. She was from Giengen, Germany and led the most remarkable, inspirational life, shaping history as she lived.
At 18 months old a high fever resulted in Margarete contracting Polio, and losing the use of her legs, and leaving her with a painful right arm. Never one to be deterred, she fought hard to lead a normal life, attending school and qualifying as a seamstress. Later, she began working for her sisters in their dressmaking shop, but soon found herself running her own ready-to-wear clothing business, that became so busy, she was able to employ other seamstresses.
Always open for other ventures, a pattern for a fabric elephant pin cushion caught her eye, and she set about making some for her friends as gifts. They were greatly received, but not for their intended use, but as comforting, cuddly toys for their children. From here Margarete Steiff set about crafting other fabric animals, and by 1880 the foundation was laid for Margarete Steiff GmbH. Her vision, determination and zest for life, have turned her company into the international, worldwide success it is today, continually embracing, the memory that is Margarete Steiff.
Why you should buy Steiff products?
- Unmatched Craftsmanship: Steiff is synonymous with exceptional craftsmanship. Each Steiff toy is meticulously handcrafted with meticulous attention to detail, ensuring superior quality that stands the test of time.
- Heritage and Legacy: Steiff boasts a rich heritage dating back over a century. With a legacy rooted in tradition and innovation, Steiff has become an iconic brand renowned for its exquisite toys and collectibles.
- Enduring Value: Steiff creations hold enduring value. Whether you’re purchasing for personal enjoyment or as an investment, Steiff toys often appreciate in value, making them a wise choice for collectors.
- Collectible Treasures: Steiff offers an extensive range of limited editions and collectibles that appeal to enthusiasts and collectors worldwide. Owning a Steiff piece means joining a community of passionate collectors.
- Iconic Teddy Bears: Steiff teddy bears have achieved legendary status. Their timeless design, superior materials, and attention to detail make them coveted companions and heirlooms that can be passed down through generations.
- Authenticity Guaranteed: When you choose Steiff, you can trust that you’re buying an authentic product. Look for the famous “Button in Ear” trademark, a symbol of genuine Steiff craftsmanship and quality.
- Delightful Playtime: Steiff toys bring joy and imagination to children’s lives. Their irresistibly soft fur, friendly faces, and huggable nature make them perfect playtime companions for endless hours of fun.
- Uniqueness and Limited Editions: Steiff continually releases limited edition designs, ensuring that you can own a truly unique and exclusive piece. These rare treasures add an extra layer of desirability to your Steiff collection.
- Excellent Gift Choice: Whether you’re seeking a gift for a child or an adult, a Steiff toy is a heartfelt gesture that will be cherished. The brand’s timeless appeal and exceptional quality make it a gift that stands out and creates lasting memories.
What is so Special about Steiff ?
- Steiff is a German-based company that is renowned for producing high-quality, luxury stuffed animals and plush toys. Established in 1880 by Margarete Steiff, the company quickly gained popularity for its unique and innovative products. There are several reasons why Steiff is considered special and holds a distinct place in the world of stuffed toys:
- Invention of the Teddy Bear: One of the most significant contributions of Steiff is the creation of the world’s first teddy bear in 1902. Richard Steiff, Margarete’s nephew, designed the bear with movable joints, which was an unprecedented feature at the time. The bear was named “Teddy” after President Theodore Roosevelt, who was often associated with an incident involving a bear on a hunting trip.
- High-Quality Materials: Steiff is known for its commitment to using only the finest materials in its products. They originally used mohair, a luxurious and durable material made from the hair of the Angora goat, to craft their plush toys. Today, Steiff still upholds this tradition and continues to use premium materials for its creations.
- Attention to Detail: Steiff places great emphasis on craftsmanship and attention to detail. Each plush toy is meticulously designed and handcrafted by skilled artisans to ensure the highest level of quality and accuracy in every creation.
- Button in Ear Trademark: Steiff introduced its famous “Button in Ear” trademark in 1904, which serves as a symbol of authenticity and distinction. The button typically carries the company’s logo and a unique product ID, making it easy to identify genuine Steiff products.
- Collectibility: Steiff plush toys are not just children’s toys; they have become highly sought-after collectibles among enthusiasts worldwide. Rare and vintage Steiff pieces can fetch significant prices at auctions and are cherished by collectors.
- Limited Editions: Steiff regularly releases limited-edition plush toys, making their products even more desirable for collectors. These limited runs often feature unique designs, commemorative editions, and collaborations with other iconic brands.
- Heritage and Legacy: Steiff’s long-standing history and tradition add to its allure. The company has weathered world wars, economic challenges, and changing market trends while maintaining its commitment to quality and craftsmanship.
- Emotional Connection: Many people have strong emotional connections to Steiff products, often stemming from childhood memories or the sentimental value associated with a particular toy. This emotional attachment contributes to Steiff’s lasting popularity.
- Steiff offers an extensive and diverse product range of high-quality plush toys and collectibles. Steiff is renowned for its exceptional craftsmanship, attention to detail, and commitment to creating timeless and cherished companions.
The Steiff range includes:
- Classic Teddy Bears: Steiff’s classic teddy bears are iconic and beloved worldwide. Crafted from premium materials like mohair and plush, these teddy bears feature the signature “Button in Ear,” symbolizing their authenticity and heritage.
- Limited Edition Teddy Bears: Steiff produces limited edition teddy bears that become coveted collectibles among enthusiasts. These bears are often released in specific quantities and adorned with special markings, making them valuable additions to any collection.
- Animal Plush Toys: Steiff offers a wide variety of plush animals, including dogs, cats, rabbits, elephants, and more. Each animal is meticulously designed and handcrafted, capturing the lifelike features and endearing expressions that Steiff is known for.
- Jointed Teddy Bears: Steiff’s jointed teddy bears are fully moveable, allowing collectors to pose and display them in various positions. These bears are often popular among collectors for their versatility and poseability.
- Baby and Children’s Toys: Steiff offers a range of plush toys and comforters designed specifically for babies and young children. These soft and cuddly companions provide comfort and companionship for the little ones.
- Steiff Friends: The Steiff Friends collection features charming characters with unique designs and themes. From whimsical fantasy creatures to seasonal and holiday-themed plush toys, this collection showcases Steiff’s creativity and imagination.
- Disney Characters: Steiff has collaborated with Disney to create plush toys featuring beloved Disney characters. These licensed products bring the magic of Disney to life in the form of cuddly and huggable companions.
- Steiff Studio Animals: Steiff Studio Animals are large-scale plush creations that make a bold and impressive statement. These exquisite pieces are often collectors’ items and can become centerpieces in home decor.
Overall, Steiff stands out for its pioneering role in the creation of the teddy bear, its unwavering commitment to quality, and the emotional connection its products evoke in people, making it a truly special and iconic brand in the world of plush toys.
Are Steiff Baby Safe ?
- Yes, Steiff products are generally considered safe for babies and children. Steiff is known for its commitment to producing high-quality and safe toys. They adhere to strict safety standards and regulations in their manufacturing processes to ensure the safety of their products.
- Steiff plush toys are typically made with high-quality materials that are safe for children. They use child-friendly fabrics, such as soft mohair or plush, and they avoid using small parts or components that could pose a choking hazard. Additionally, Steiff toys are often sewn together rather than using glue, which further reduces the risk of any harmful substances being present.
- However, it’s essential to remember that even with high-quality products like Steiff toys, adult supervision is still recommended when young children are playing with toys, especially those with small parts. Always check the recommended age guidelines provided by the manufacturer and choose toys that are appropriate for the child’s age and developmental stage.
If you have any specific concerns or questions about the safety of a particular Steiff product, it’s always a good idea to contact us . Overall, Steiff is a reputable brand with a long history of producing safe and cherished toys for children.
How to care for your Steiff Bear ?
Caring for Steiff toys properly will help maintain their quality and ensure their longevity. Here are some general tips on how to care for Steiff toys:
- Check the label: Some Steiff Plush Toys are machine washable, some are hand washable, Steiff Collectible Mohair Bears are surface washable.
- Regular Cleaning: Steiff Collectible toys, especially those that are regularly played with, may accumulate dirt and dust over time. You can clean them by gently brushing or shaking off any loose particles. For surface dirt, use a slightly damp cloth or sponge to spot clean the toy. Avoid submerging the toy in water, as it may damage the materials and stuffing.
- Avoid Exposure to Moisture: Steiff Collectible toys are not designed to withstand exposure to water or excessive moisture. Keep them away from wet areas and avoid washing them in a washing machine. If a toy does get wet, gently dab it with a dry cloth and allow it to air dry completely.
- Storage: When not in use, store Steiff toys in a clean and dry place, away from direct sunlight. Avoid keeping them in places with extreme temperatures or high humidity levels, as these conditions can potentially damage the materials.
- Handling with Care: While Steiff toys are well-crafted, they can be delicate. Avoid rough handling, pulling on limbs, or subjecting the toy to undue stress. This is particularly important for vintage or collectible Steiff pieces.
- Keep Away from Pets: If you have pets, be cautious about leaving Steiff toys within their reach. Pets, especially dogs and cats, may view the toys as chew toys and could damage them.
- Repairs: If your Steiff toy becomes damaged or needs repair, consider sending it to a professional teddy bear or plush toy repair service. Attempting to fix the toy yourself may lead to further damage.
- Display Considerations: If you have collectible or valuable Steiff toys that you’d like to display, consider using display cases or shelves to protect them from dust and potential damage.
- Rotate Toys: If you have a collection of Steiff toys, consider rotating them regularly if they are on display or kept out for play. This can help reduce wear and tear on specific toys.
- Avoid Harsh Chemicals: When cleaning or spot cleaning Steiff toys, avoid using harsh chemicals or cleaning agents. Stick to mild soap or gentle detergents, if necessary, and always test on a small, inconspicuous area first.
By following these care tips, you can help preserve the beauty and quality of your Steiff toys for many years to come. Remember that each Steiff toy is unique, so it’s essential to consider its age, materials, and any specific care instructions provided by the manufacturer.
At World of Bears, we are a club store, and have a store within a store dedicated to all the ranges of Steiff Toys and Collectibles from Baby to Licensed Traditional Teddy Bears, one of the largest ranges in stock available in our high street store’s or online
With Steiff, you’re not just buying a toy or collectible; you’re investing in a piece of history, craftsmanship, and joy. Embrace the magic of Steiff and discover why their creations have captured the hearts of millions worldwide.
