Worn but loved

If you search for "A Bei Bei" on Chinese social media, you're likely to come across images of worn-out, threadbare items — old pillowcases, faded towels, or battered stuffed animals that look ready for the trash.

What's surprising, though, is that these humble objects are often cherished keepsakes, offering comfort to their owners for over a decade.

The term "A Bei Bei" originated when a Chinese internet user shared how her baby son named his beloved security blanket. In psychology, these comfort items are known as "transitional objects", which help children cope with separation anxiety and build emotional stability.

While most people grow out of the need for such items as they get older, many young adults are now opening up online about their own A Bei Bei. From childhood stuffed animals to blankets that have lasted for years, users share captions like, "Help! I'm 28 and still can't let go of my A Bei Bei!"

The trend has resonated with many young people across China. On Xiaohongshu, the "A Bei Bei" hashtag has attracted over 670,000 posts, with users sharing stories of their longtime companions.

"These objects carry the scent of memory — just touching them brings a sense of calm," wrote one Xiaohongshu user.