This navy blue color doesn't easily show dirt, so I don't think there are any particularly noticeable stains, but it does show signs of use. I think it would be good for playing outside or at daycare (^^) The padding is soft and feels very nice. It's warm and well-made, so I think you can use it from now until the middle of winter. There's Velcro on the back of the neck, and you can store a thin hood there, so you don't have to worry about the hood getting caught on playground equipment when playing in the park. * No pets or smokers. Price is not negotiable.