(picture is NOT mine, just kind of an example of what i’m doing)

My lovely (4yo & 3yo) nephew and niece’s birthday is coming up. Since they’ve been born, I’ve hand-made them something special (personalized blankets, hats, etc.), and they’re entering the age where they can finally get some toys! Their mama told me they’re really into pretend cooking and are going to receive a play kitchen for this birthday, and I thought it would be perfect to make them those soft play foods I’ve been seeing everywhere! I’ll be making them their favorite foods, as well as the basics.

I’ve been practicing with some cheap felt, and it looks good, but my concern is the durability, and they need to be washable! I heard felt is harder to wash and absorbs more germs. I was thinking of using some fleece. I know it’s more flimsy, but I do have some plastic canvases I can add to the insides when needed. Or is there some sort of iron-on stabilizer I can use? Or is it just easier to go with felt? Either way, any input/recommendations would be appreciated! I live in the US, if that helps.