It is very soft and the perfect length. It's not so long that it is flimsy and not too short so that it is inflexible. It worked perfectly for it's intended use. It is very soft and tickley, but not overly so. There are no other ways to use this toy other than it's intended use. There was no odd smell to it when opened. There were no cleaning instructions, but this would be a clean by hand toy only. I did purchase a hard case for it so that the feather wouldn't get broken because it is so delicate. I also would keep it away from getting waxy for those who like wax play.