How to Add Hearing Aids to a Doll Using a Simple Headband

Why Headbands Work

Have a doll or toy in need of a hearing device?

One versatile option is an adjustable baby headband.

Baby elastic headbands stretch to fit almost any stuffed animal or doll head, and they're wide enough to slip a small felt piece or bead underneath—creating a simple, adjustable hearing aid representation that takes about 30 seconds to put on and takes off just as fast.

Unlike the sewn versions, there's nothing permanent here. That makes this a good option for toddlers who want to change which toy has hearing aids from day to day, or for families who want to try out the idea before committing to a sewing project.

Age note: because headbands can come off easily and some sets include decorative pieces, we treat these as 3+ toys with supervision.

Option 1: UeeSum Baby Headbands (Wide, Bow-Style)

We have a set of these by UeeSum.

We love the cute colors, and how stretchy and easy they are to adjust.

Plus, they're wide enough to add hearing devices!

Option 2: inSowni Thin Headbands (Sporty, Bright Colors)

These headbands by inSowni are a thinner option, that look soft and stretchy.

We love the bright, sporty colors.

While headbands haven't worked yet for us for actual hearing aid retention, we love them for toys!

More Ways to Give a Doll Hearing Aids

If you want something more permanent, we have two other methods:

Our 15-minute-stuffie-project uses basic sewing supplies and a small piece of felt to attach hearing aids directly to a stuffed animal's head. No special skills needed, and the result looks clean and stays put.

For a more detailed look using decorative beads, our bead-and-headband method gives the hearing aids a specific shape and uses the doll's existing headband as the attachment point.

And if you'd rather buy a doll that already comes with hearing aids, our inclusive toy roundup has ready-made options from Etsy, Miniland, Barbie, and LEGO.