All Frequently Asked Questions
This page contains a complete overview of all frequently asked questions about Promo Bears and our custom products, including mascot costumes, plush toys, stress balls, inflatables, and promotional merchandise.
Each question below links to a dedicated FAQ page with more detailed information.
If you’re looking for quick, product-specific answers, you may prefer our organized FAQ overview with expandable sections.
Do I get to see a sample before the full order is produced?
Yes. Every custom plush toy order includes a sample approval step before full production begins, so you can confirm quality, color, and branding details in advance.
Can manufactured plush toys still look high quality and detailed?
Yes. Manufacturing allows for precise embroidery, accurate color matching, and consistent stitching detail across every unit, which is difficult to guarantee with handmade production at volume.
How long does it take to produce custom plush toys?
The entire order and production process takes about 16-18 weeks. This includes the design phase, production, and delivery.
What is the minimum order quantity for custom plush toys?
Promo Bears requires a minimum order of 1,000 pieces for custom plush toys. This minimum allows us to maintain manufacturing efficiency and keep per-unit costs reasonable for your business.
How much do custom plush toys cost?
Prices vary by size and complexity. For example, an 8-inch plush toy starts around $10 per unit for 500 pieces. Contact us for a tailored quote within 24 hours.
What is your minimum order quantity (MOQ)?
Our MOQ is 500 pieces (1,000 for plush keychains).
What are custom stress ball shapes?
Custom stress ball shapes are personalized designs that go beyond the classic round ball. They can be molded into almost any form, to match your brand’s identity and make your promotional item memorable.
Where to buy custom shaped stress balls?
You can order custom-shaped stress balls directly from Promo Bears USA, the experts in fully personalized and branded stress relievers. Our team will guide you from concept all the way to production, whether you need logo, mascot, or product-shaped stress balls for your next campaign.
Learn more about our custom stress ball designs here.
Can I create a stress ball in the shape of my logo or product?
Absolutely! At Promo Bears, our designers can recreate your company logo, mascot, or even product packaging as a squeezable custom stress ball. This approach helps turn your brand into a fun, tangible object that customers won’t forget.
What are the most popular custom stress ball shapes?
Some of our best-selling custom shapes include:
- Vehicles (cars, trucks, planes, and boats)
- Mascots and brand characters
- Logos and company initials
- Product and packaging replicas
- Machines and equipment for industrial or tech brands
Is there a minimum order quantity for custom shaped stress balls?
Yes, our MOQ is 1,000 pieces. This ensures the best production quality, color consistency, and unit pricing for your custom design. Larger quantities also help us deliver the most cost-effective solution for your brand.
How can I design my own custom stress ball shape?
Simply contact Promo Bears, share your idea, and our project manager will guide you through the entire process — from 3D concept design to final production. You’ll receive digital proofs to review before manufacturing begins.
Are stress balls safe and non-toxic?
Yes! All Promo Bears USA stress balls are made from non-toxic, high-quality foam and comply with U.S. safety standards. They’re suitable for adults and children!
Can I order stress balls in bulk?
Yes! Bulk stress balls are a cost-effective choice for events, trade shows, or corporate giveaways. Ordering in larger quantities also allows for consistent branding and greater reach within your audience. Learn more about bulk stress balls here.
What materials are used to make custom stress balls?
Most custom-shaped stress balls are made from durable polyurethane (PU) foam, which is soft, flexible, and safe to squeeze repeatedly without losing shape. This material allows for detailed customization while maintaining a smooth, high-quality finish.
Can we reorder items later using the same design?
Yes — we keep your approved mascot design files on record, making future reorders fast and affordable with no extra setup costs.
Can we match the packaging to our school or park theme?
Absolutely! We can print your mascot, logo, or slogan directly on the packaging and use your brand colors or event artwork to create a consistent, themed look for your school or park souvenirs.
How long does production take?
Standard delivery times range from 2 weeks for design-only items to 6–8 weeks for custom-printed products.
Do you offer bulk pricing for schools or parks?
Absolutely! Contact us and you will receive a quote based on your order quantity and custom bundles available.
Can I order a custom design based on my mascot?
Yes! All our kids’ gift sets and mascot souvenirs are fully customizable with your logo, mascot artwork, and colors.
How long does it take to receive my accessories?
Standard accessory orders are usually ready within 2–4 weeks, depending on customization and stock. For urgent orders, please contact us for express options.
How do I clean or maintain my mascot accessories?
Most accessories are easy to clean, but the first rule is do NOT machine wash. Cooling vests can be wiped down and refrozen; carrying bags can be spot-cleaned or hand-washed; and stands can simply be wiped with a damp cloth. Always let items dry fully before storage. Find out more about how to clean your mascot costume here.
What is a mascot cooling vest, and how does it work?
A mascot cooling vest uses reusable gel packs to regulate body temperature during performances. The packs are chilled before use and provide several hours of cooling comfort inside the costume.
Why are mascot accessories important?
Mascot accessories help protect your costume, improve performer comfort, and extend the mascot’s lifespan. For example, cooling vests prevent overheating, carrying bags make transport easy, and stands help maintain shape and hygiene between events.
Can I order mascot accessories separately from a mascot costume?
Yes! You can purchase all accessories, such as cooling vests, carrying bags, stands, and replacement hands or shoes, separately. They’re compatible with most mascot costumes, even if you didn’t order your costume from Promo Bears.
What clothes should be worn under a mascot costume?
Moisture-wicking athletic gear works best, keeping the skin dry and comfortable.
How often should I clean a mascot costume?
After every use, with deep cleaning every three months. Always follow the manufacturer’s manual to avoid damage.
Are high quality mascot costumes more comfortable than budget ones?
Yes. They offer custom tailoring, breathable fabrics, removable linings, and built-in ventilation, features budget suits lack.
How do I prevent overheating in a mascot costume?
Use cooling vests, proper ventilation systems, moisture-wicking clothes, and schedule regular breaks.
What are the health benefits of using stress balls for stress relief and hand strengthening?
Stress balls can help alleviate symptoms of stress, such as muscle tension and fatigue, and may be especially helpful for employees with arthritis by reducing strain and supporting joint health. The resistance and texture of stress balls can help strengthen hand muscles and reduce strain, making them beneficial for physical wellness. Stress balls can also be beneficial for physical therapy purposes, helping to strengthen hand muscles post-injury. Regular use of stress balls can strengthen the muscles in hands and forearms, improving grip strength and dexterity. Choosing the right material and resistance is important to meet different employee needs. Incorporating stress balls into daily routines can be part of broader lifestyle changes to support employee well-being. Stress balls are a safe, non-invasive tool for stress management.
Can I order custom stress balls with my company logo?
Absolutely! Custom stress balls can be personalized with your company logo or unique designs. This makes them excellent promotional items that not only relieve stress but also enhance brand visibility and create a lasting impression. They are most effective when used as part of a broader stress management strategy alongside techniques like mindfulness and professional therapy.
How can stress balls support lifestyle changes for better health?
Incorporating stress balls into your daily routine can complement lifestyle changes aimed at reducing stress and improving mental health. Using stress balls regularly helps relieve tension, improve concentration, and promote relaxation, supporting overall wellness.
What materials are used to create custom stress balls?
Custom stress balls are typically made from durable foam, rubber, or gel materials. These materials offer different levels of resistance and texture, allowing you to choose the best option to suit your needs and preferences for stress relief.
Are stress balls worth it for stress management?
Yes, stress balls are worth it because they provide a simple, affordable, and effective way to relieve stress and anxiety. The act of squeezing a stress ball helps reduce muscle tension and promotes relaxation, making them a helpful tool in your stress management routine. However, stress balls cannot replace professional therapy or a comprehensive treatment plan for severe anxiety disorders, chronic stress, or depression.
What’s the timeline from sketch to final costume?
Most mascots are ready in about 9–11 weeks, depending on the number of revision rounds and costume details. We keep you involved at every stage – from concept approval to final fitting – to make sure your mascot is exactly what you envisioned.
How much does it cost to design a mascot?
The design phase is completely free with every mascot costume order at Promo Bears. We believe great mascots start with great design, so we include concept sketches and unlimited revisions at no extra charge. Final pricing depends on factors like costume complexity, size, and accessories. Check out our pricing page for more details.
Do I own the mascot design if I get it made by Promo Bears?
Absolutely. All of our custom mascot designs come with full copyright transfer, meaning you own the character outright. That includes the rights to use it for events, merchandise, branding, and more. Your mascot is 100% yours — no licensing fees, no fine print.
Can I use AI tools to design a mascot?
Yes, AI tools can be helpful for generating initial ideas or exploring different styles – but use them with caution. AI-generated mascots are often based on pre-existing content, which means the designs may lack originality and can’t be copyrighted for commercial use. They also aren’t optimized for real-world performance. We recommend using AI as a brainstorming tool, then working with certified designers to create a truly unique, wearable custom mascot costume.
Where can I get a police mascot costume?
The best place to get a professional police mascot costume is from a custom mascot costume specialist like Promo Bears USA. They create high-quality, fully customized designs tailored to your department’s values, mission, and community needs. From concept to final stitch, they ensure your mascot is built for real-world outreach and long-term use.
Are there mascots for fire departments too?
Absolutely. Fire department mascots and EMS mascots are widely used for similar reasons: to promote safety education, increase public engagement, and support fire prevention programs. They’re often seen in school visits, emergency preparedness events, and community demonstrations — helping kids learn life-saving tips in a fun, memorable way.
Can mascots really improve police-community relations?
Yes — and the impact is measurable. Police mascots help establish emotional connections between law enforcement and the public by removing the intimidation factor. They’re especially effective with children, who may feel nervous around officers in uniform. Mascots create moments of shared joy, which builds familiarity, trust, and a positive long-term association with local law enforcement.
Are mascot costumes expensive?
The price of a mascot costume depends on its design complexity, materials, and features. On average, a professionally made custom mascot costume ranges from $3,900 to $6,500. This cost includes tailored construction, breathable materials, branded accessories, and long-lasting durability. While it’s an investment, a well-made mascot can be reused for years — making it a cost-effective tool for outreach and branding.
What is the purpose of a police mascot?
A police mascot is more than just a character in costume — it’s a strategic tool for humanizing law enforcement, improving public perception, and building stronger relationships with the community. Mascots are often used in schools, parades, festivals, and outreach campaigns to make police presence more approachable and memorable, especially for children and families.
How long does mascot production take?
The standard production timeline for our custom mascot costumes is 11–12 weeks. Which includes design, materials, construction and quality checks. If you need your custom mascot sooner, rush production slots may be available for an additional fee. Availability of rush production slots depend on the complexity of your order and the time of year. For orders of 2-5 pcs the standard production timeline is also 11-12 weeks. For bigger orders like 10 / 20 or 50 pcs we will make a custom delivery plan based on your requirements.
Are extras like cooling vests and stands worth it?
Absolutely — especially if your mascot will be used frequently or in warm environments. A cooling vest ($200) helps prevent overheating for the performer, while a mascot stand ($675) keeps the costume in top shape between events. These extras can extend the mascot’s lifespan and improve overall comfort.
What is the cheapest mascot option available?
The most affordable mascot options typically include only the mascot head or helmet. While budget-friendly, they don’t include a full-body suit, and they generally lack custom design, durability, or ventilation features.
What does mascot design include?
A custom mascot design package usually costs around $250 and includes a fully illustrated digital concept. This concept is developed in collaboration with the client and refined through revisions until it meets your brand’s vision. No production begins until the design is approved, ensuring you get exactly what you want.
How much does a full custom mascot cost?
A professionally made full-body custom mascot costume typically costs between $3,900 and $6,500. This range covers high-quality materials, built-in comfort features, and full customization. Pricing varies based on the mascot’s complexity, type (animal, human, or object), and any add-ons requested.
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What are your mascot costumes made of?
Every mascot we make is a bit different, and so are the materials! Most mascots have a molded foam head base, a lightweight inner body suit, and sturdy mascot shoes with rubber soles. The type of material used on the outside will depend on the mascot. For animal mascots, we often use plush or hairy materials. For other mascot types such as humans or product mascots, we have options for smoother fabrics. Your project manager can advise what to expect based on your mascot concept illustration.
Do I need a design to order an inflatable?
If you already have a design for your project, feel free to send it to us! Our design team will create an inflatable design with all the views (front, side, and back) for you. Once approved, our production team will faithfully replicate your inflatable according to it.
No design? No problem! Our design team will create a design from scratch according to your preferences and wishes.
Our designs are no obligation and are open to your feedback.
What things should I pay attention to before setting up my inflatable?
First of all, be sure to position your inflatable on a flat surface (ideally a soft one, like grass). Check the ground and remove all the sharp objects (like stones or glass). Also, make sure there is no fire or any other heat source close to your inflatable.
How do I set up my inflatable?
After you remove your inflatable from the carry bag, roll it out completely and make sure all the air exit points or zippers are closed. Put the air hose over the opening of your blower and fasten it tight to the blower. Now you can plug in the blower and switch it ON: the inflating process will start. You can now guide your inflatable to the proper position. Please make sure the blower is always ON for continuous airflow. Now you can put your inflatable in the desired position and anchor it.
How do I anchor my inflatable?
To anchor your inflatable properly and prevent it from shifting or falling, we recommend using the materials included with the purchase of your inflatable (ropes and ground pins). Use two ground pins on the front and two on the back. Also, attach the shoes/feet/bottom of your inflatable through the metal D-rings to the ground with the ground pins. If you are positioning your inflatable on the road or in a trade show booth, make sure the ropes are attached to your booth, to the ceiling, and/or to some sandbags.
How do I disassemble my inflatable?
Before starting, make sure you have enough space to disassemble your inflatable, that there are no sharp objects nearby, and that your inflatable is fully dry. Two people are required to disassemble your inflatable.
Firstly, switch the blower to “OFF” and unplug the blower. During the deflation of the inflatable, help it to fall to the ground in a controlled way. We recommend removing any electric cables, to be sure nobody could trip over them.
Next, disconnect the air hose from the blower and open the air hose (Velcro and the zippers) of your inflatable to let the air go out.
Untie the ropes from the ground pins and remove them. Put your inflatable flat on the ground and make sure all the air is out before folding and rolling it.
Now make a rectangle with your inflatable starting from the extremities and folding them to the center. Go on with rolling up your inflatable carefully. With two persons, fold one side first and then the other (the goal is to have your inflatable about 2 – 2 ½ feet wide).
Now roll the length of the inflatable towards the air hose; by doing that, you should be able to remove any air that is still inside your inflatable.
Afterward, put your rolled-up inflatable into your carry bag.
When shouldn’t I use my inflatable?
We do not recommend using your inflatable in strong winds (more than 25mph). Also, our advice is not to use your inflatable when is raining heavily (while your inflatable can withstand rain, the blower is only splashproof).
How can I clean my inflatable?
To clean your inflatable properly you can just use water with a bit of dish soap and a cloth. We recommend cleaning it while inflated, lying on the floor or ground so you can reach every part easily. Please be sure that your inflatable is completely dry before packing or storing it.
Which material options can I choose from?
You can decide to go for the Polyester 420D (anti-scratch and ideal for complex designs to be printed on your inflatable) or the PVC (strong and resistant, ideal for outdoor/water events and for giant inflatables) material. Our inflatable experts will always recommend the best option according to your needs. You can also decide to make your inflatable air-sealed (an option available only with the PVC material) to avoid the need to have a blower constantly working to keep it inflated.
How long do I have to wait to receive my inflatable?
Our standard delivery time for our inflatables is 4-5 weeks from the start of production. If you have a rush project, we can deliver it to you in 3-4 weeks for a 20% rush fee on the total price. The delivery cost for North America is always included in the inflatable price.
Do I need to have a design to start the process?
If your team has already come up with a design or you already have a logo, a product in mind or a well-established character that you just need to bring to life, that’s great! Our design team will redesign it to a concept illustration, where you will be able to see how the front, side and back view of your mascot will look like.
If you don’t have a design, don’t worry about it! In order to bring a character that will be the personification of your company, your designated project manager will work closely with you, in order to fully understand your project. Based on your input, our design team will start from scratch and will propose 1 to 3 different characters. Then our designers will make the necessary adjustments until you are 100% satisfied with your mascot design.
How much input do I get into the look of my custom mascot?
You will be involved every step of the way from the first design until the final design approval, and we’ll also keep you updated with the choice of fabrics and final result pictures after production is done. We fully understand that your custom mascot will become the new face of your business, so we’ll ensure along the way that we fully get your idea and clearly explain to you the options we can provide to meet your needs.
We have official colors. Can those be incorporated into my mascot?
Absolutely! We work with Pantone color codes for production. If you don’t have Pantone codes, it won’t be a problem; we will find the best match to your colors.
Can my character have our logo on the costume?
Definitely! Please send us a high-quality file of it and just let us know where you would like it placed.
Can my mascot be of a well-known character?
Due to copyright issues, we won’t be able to bring to life a copyrighted character, except if the copyright holder gave his or her approval to you to have the character made. However, we would be happy to create a unique character for you, if you wish to have your own design.
What is the size of a custom mascot?
Our normal mascot size is 5’7” – 6’1”. We can change the size range at no extra cost. We work with a size range of 6 inches. For example, we can make a mascot of 5’ – 5’6’’. Just let us know the exact size range that will fit you best.
How long will a custom mascot last?
Many things will determine the lifetime of your mascot. With every mascot comes a mascot maintenance manual, where you will be able to learn how to maintain your mascot, for this one to last for years. If you need some additional support, feel free to contact us and we will be glad to help you. Our maintenance manual also includes a section that will give you performer tips. With that, you will be sure that every appearance of your mascot will be successful!
What is the production timeline for a custom mascot costume?
Our standard production timeline for your custom mascot costume is 11–12 weeks. Which includes design, materials, construction and quality checks. If you need your custom mascot sooner, rush production slots may be available for an additional fee. Availability of rush production slots depend on the complexity of your order and the time of year.
For orders of 2-5 pcs the standard production timeline is also 11-12 weeks. For bigger orders like 10 / 20 / 50 pcs we will make a custom delivery plan based on your requirements.
After production’s complete, we’ll take some pictures which we’ll send to you. Once you are fully satisfied with the final product, you give us your go and we ship the mascot to your delivery address.
How to clean mascot costumes?
We make a distinction between two types of cleaning: post-use cleaning (after each performance) and long-term thorough cleaning (every 3 months).
Here you can read all about our recommendations on cleaning your mascot costume.
How are individual stress balls made?
Promo Bears stress balls are made of high-quality PU foam, which is durable. The stress balls can be made in any shape and color, from simple designs to complex customer requirements. The production of the stress balls starts with the design and production of a prototype, which must be approved by you. Then a mold is made and mass production begins. Once completed, the stress balls are packaged and shipped to your office or event.
What is the difference between Promo Bears stress balls and other stress balls?
The main difference between Promo Bears stress balls and other stress balls is that Promo Bears stress balls can be custom-made to meet any customer requirement. This means that Promo Bears stress balls can be made in any shape or color, from simple designs to complex customer logos and mascots. Other stress balls are often available in standard shapes and colors and cannot be customized. Promo Bears stress balls are also made of high-quality PU foam which is extra durable.
Can I have my own design and logo printed on stress balls?
Yes, you can have your own design or logo printed on Promo Bears stress balls. Promo Bears even goes a step further and offers the possibility to customize and design the complete shape of the stress balls, especially for your company, character, or product. This way you get stress balls that are fully customized to represent your company, brand or product. To have your custom design printed on stress balls, contact Promo Bears and let us know your design needs. We will be happy to help you implement your design and offer unlimited design revisions to ensure you are satisfied.
How long does the production of stress balls take?
Promo Bears stress balls production usually takes 12-14 weeks. This includes time for prototyping (4-5 weeks), mold making and mass production (6-7 weeks), and air shipping (2 weeks). Please note that these times may change depending on the complexity of the design and the order quantity. If you have a larger order quantity or a more complex design, contact Promo Bears for more specific times. We also offer the option to prototype before you decide on a larger order quantity.
What is the minimum order quantity for custom stress balls?
The minimum order quantity for our custom stress balls is 1,000. This is due to the cost of manufacturing molds for custom designs. However, we offer competitive pricing on orders of 1,000 or more to give you the opportunity to get custom stress balls at an affordable price.
Can I see a prototype of my stress balls before I place an order?
Yes, you can see a prototype of your Promo Bears stress balls before you place an order. We offer the option to prototype before you decide to place a large order. This way, you can be sure that your stress balls are exactly what you need. After you tell us your design preferences, we will create a design for your stress balls and send it to you for approval. Once you are satisfied with the design, we will begin manufacturing the prototype. Once the prototype is ready, we will send you pictures for you to see and approve. Only after your approval of the prototype, will we start mass production of your stress balls.
What is the difference between stress balls and anti-stress balls?
In many cases, the terms “anti-stress ball” and “stress ball” are used interchangeably to describe small, soft balls that can be squeezed and kneaded to relieve stress and release tension. Both terms refer to the same object and basically have the same meaning.
How can a stress ball help my company?
A stress ball can help your company in several ways. First of all, a stress ball serves as a promotional item that keeps your brand present among your customers and business partners and gives them a positive association with your company. This will help you strengthen your brand and attract new customers. Another benefit is that stress balls can help reduce stress and tension among your employees and customers. By using a stress ball, they can relax and improve their performance and concentration, which in turn can help increase productivity. The project managers at Promo Bears will be happy to help you find the right promotional product for your company and provide you with advice.
Do I need a design?
If you have a design that’s great! Feel free to send it or them to us. Our design team has a lot of experience in faithfully replicating existing characters into a custom plush toy design.
If you don’t have a design, don’t worry about it! Our design team can also create a unique design based on your input.
Our designs are no obligation and are open to your feedback. Check out one example of a unique plush toy we created from scratch.
Are you able to replicate our mascot character to a custom plush toy?
Of course! We have turned a lot of mascot costumes into plush toys. In order to do that we will need the front, side, and back view of your life-size mascot, as well as other relevant information such as Pantone colors, jersey, and your logo in a high-resolution file. Check out Bridgestone’s case study here and see how we turned their character into both a mascot costume and custom plushie!
Can I see a prototype sample before making the decision to place a bulk order?
Absolutely! Before moving forward to mass production, we always assure you that your plush toys will be up to your expectations. The prototype sample, as our design, will be open to your feedback so that changes can be accounted for in mass production. We only ask for the mass order to begin once you’re satisfied with your plush prototype.
What is your minimum order quantity?
We understand that your school, company, or organization doesn’t always need a huge quantity of plush. That is why our minimum order quantity is 500 pieces.
What is the average turnaround time for a custom plush project?
The total project length will be 18 to 20 weeks. Our production team will take 4 to 5 weeks to bring your prototype sample to life. The mass production takes 8 to 9 weeks to complete. Once the mass production is ready to be shipped, shipping will take 6 weeks by our standard transport (ocean) and 2 weeks by air.
Is the shipping and customs clearance cost included in the price?
Definitely! Our plush prices include everything from the design phase, the production of the prototype and mass production, as well as the shipping and custom clearance fees.
Are your custom plush toys safe?
We are aware that many custom plush toys are originally designed for children. As such, we always assure that our plush toys are safe. All of our toys meet or exceed all required ASTM standards.