Are Squishmallows Washable? How To Wash Them?

Squishmallows washing tips

In 2017, Jazwares, the parent company of Kellytoy, launched Squishmallows. These adorable toy pillows soon became internet-famous for their cuteness! They became the best snuggle buddies for toddlers, teens, and adults all over the world. 

First, let’s find out a bit more about these fascinating Squishmallows. And then, we will try to learn how to take care of these squishy pet pillows. 

But before that, if you are pressed for time and want a quick answer to the question of whether Squishmallows are washable, here you have it:

These soft, huggable stuffed animals need cleaning just like your real pet animals. It is advisable to spot-clean Squishmallows whenever possible. But they can go in the washing machine if you really need to clean them thoroughly. Yes. It is better to spot clean the Squishmallows, but if absolutely needed, you can put them into the washing machine too.

Now, here is the longer answer.

What are Squishmallows?

Squishmallows are soft, squeezy, brightly colored pillows in the shape of adorable animals and fruits. These perfect pillow pals might be in the form of a corgi, crab, frog, leopard, octopus, owl, snail, unicorn, or avocado, cactus, pineapple, strawberry, watermelon, or even Baby Yoda or Nemo! 

Name an animal or a fruit, and you will probably find a Squishmallow in its shape! Also, the Squishmallows are available in all kinds of sizes, ranging from a keychain size of 3.5 inch to a 24 inch pillow. 

There are more than 800 Squishmallow characters, and people all over the world are collecting them. In fact, in the past year, hunting for a rare Squishmallow has become a popular pastime! 

Squishmallows are pretty versatile. They are perfect all year round. They can be a kid’s playtime pal or a teen’s bedtime buddy. They can also be an adult’s couch companion or travel teammate! 

What are Squishmallows made of?

Squishmallows are made of super soft spandex and filled with puffy, marshmallow-like polyester fiber. They are similar to memory foam. 

No toxic chemicals are used in the fibers stuffed within the pillows or added to the outer layers of the pillows. The Squishmallows are Prop 65 compliant and are non-flammable. 

The Squishmallows are very delicate, and will need loads of your love and affection!  

How to wash a Squishmallow? 

A Squishmallow animal (or fruit) can be cleaned by giving it a good old bath (by washing it, that is)!

Now, if it has a few minor dirty spots, you do not need to worry about full-on washing it. Simply use a wet wipe or a stain remover. You can also take a wet towel, pour some mild laundry detergent on it, and then rub it on the dirt spots of your Squishmallow.

However, you have to keep in mind a few friendly tips when washing your fluffy, pillow buddies in the machine. First, spot-clean the Squishmallow to remove any tough stains on your cuddly cushion. Next, throw it into the washing machine. 

Never wash your Squishmallow on its own.

Always add other washing companions to it like bedding, comforters, pillow covers, and other similar materials to ensure that the machine does not damage its fabric, or worse, destroy its squishy magic! 

Turn the setting of your machine to the delicate cycle as your plushy friend needs gentle care. Also, always wash your Squishmallow in cool water (the heat is bad for your little soft pillow buddy!).

Another helpful suggestion from a fellow member of the Squishmallow Squad is to wash your Squishmallow after putting it inside a pillowcase and tying up the opening.

This allows your Squishmallow to retain its original fluffy condition. 

What happens when you wash a Squishmallow? 

When you wash a Squishmallow for the first time (without the pillowcase hack), it may lose its original shape.

Don’t fret as you can revert it to its initial condition by giving it an extra little squish! The Squishmallow becomes as good as new, and you are ready to snuggle it to sleep. 

Can you wash Squishmallows with soap? 

Handwashing your Squishmallows with soap is a no-go.

The foamy, soapy water will drench the Squishmallow and it will be quite difficult to wash it off properly. 

If you want to spot clean your Squishmallow, then simply use a stain remover or wet wipe.

If you feel your Squishmallow has become way too dirty and grimy and needs proper cleaning; then put it in your washing machine with some mild laundry detergent and a little bit of fabric softener.  

Can you wash Squishmallows with detergent? 

Yes, you can wash Squishmallows with a mild detergent.

Depending on the number of Squishmallows you are washing, pour the normal amount of laundry detergent or a little less.

Use half the normal amount of fabric softener. Too much of it can make your pretty Squishmallows oily and heavy. (Nobody wants that, right?)

How to dry a Squishmallow

Squishmallows can be dried naturally, or by putting them in the dryer. 

Can you air dry Squishmallows? 

Yes, you can definitely air dry your Squishmallow! It is the best tried-and-tested technique for your little, snuggle buddy.

Just put your Squishmallow out in the sun, on your porch or window, and allow it to sunbathe!

Can you put Squishmallows in the dryer? 

If you are in a hurry, you can put your Squishmallow inside a pillowcase, tie it up, and then put it in the dryer.

Tumble dry it at low heat or air fluff.

Do NOT use a hairdryer, iron, or any other handheld heated appliance for drying your fluffy, squishy pillow! 

ALWAYS remember that your gentle, squeezy Squishmallow cannot tolerate high heat!

Can you put Squishmallows in the microwave?

An absolute NO! You cannot put Squishmallows in a microwave.

Squishmallows are made of polyester fiber. Polyester is a man-made, non-organic substance mostly consisting of plastic. While some types of plastics are microwavable, polyester fiber CANNOT be put into the microwave. 

The polyester fiber can melt, or worse, start a fire if put in a microwave. So, it’s best to keep your cute, plushy toys away from the high heat of the microwave. 

References:

  1. https://squishmallows.com/
Anand Srinivasan
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