Understanding Squishmallows

What are Squishmallows

Squishmallows are a line of soft, super snuggly plush toys that have become a global phenomenon in recent years. Created by Kellytoy, a company from Los Angeles, Squishmallows started hitting the shelves in 2017 and quickly gained immense popularity across all ages ranging from kids to adults. Despite being a toy, these lovable plushies have distinguished themselves not just by their unique name but due to their ultra-soft feel, adorable outward appearances, and variety in sizes. Boasting over 800 characters, Squishmallows have mushroomed into a massive collection with fans worldwide.

The Composition and Design of Squishmallows

Constructed out of super soft spandex EF and polyester stuffing, Squishmallows provide a comfort level of squishiness. They have a distinctive marshmallow-like texture, which is light to hold and super soft to touch. This unique combination of material beautifully contributes to their fluffiness and provides the user with a soothing feel. Their design is another element that separates Squishmallows from the rest. They come in various sizes ranging from the miniature 3.5 inches clip-on Squishmallows all the way up to the giant 24 inches ones. Also, they feature a vast array of characters including a unicorn, cat, octopus among others, making them appealing to a broader audience.

Why Care for Squishmallows?

Caring for squishmallows is vital for maintaining their longevity and preserving their softness and plush beauty. Since these plush toys are quite versatile, they not only serve as cute additions to your space but can also double up as pillows, couch companions, bedtime buddies, or even travel mates. Therefore, they get exposed to various elements such as food, dust, etc., which can make them dirty and unhygienic over time. More than often, squishmallows need a good wash to restore their original glory. Clean squishmallows means a clean, comfortable, and healthy environment for their respective owners. Hence, understanding how to appropriately clean and wash your squishmallows is crucial.

The Right Ways to Wash Squishmallows

The Non-Machine Wash Technique

There are several ways to wash your squishmallows effectively. Not all squishmallows are machine washable, especially the larger ones over 16 inches. The non-Machine wash technique can be employed here. This involves using a mix of mild detergent and warm water to form a soapy solution. The squishmallow should be gently spot cleaned with this mix using a cloth or sponge. A subsequent wipe with a dry towel will remove the excess moisture, and then the squishmallow should be left in a warm area to air dry. This method rightly balances efficient cleaning while ensuring the longevity and fluffiness of the squishmallow.

Machine Wash Technique

For smaller squishmallows, the Machine Wash Technique can be utilized. However, it's essential to ensure the safety of squishmallows in this process. Therefore, the squishmallow should first be placed inside a mesh laundry bag or a pillowcase tied at the end. The machine should be set on a gentle cycle with cold water and a mild detergent. Once the wash cycle is over, instead of throwing them in a dryer, squishmallows are best left to air dry. This method is great for a thorough cleaning of your squishmallow.

Guideline for Drying Squishmallows

Regardless of the washing method used, drying is a critical element in the washing process. The ideal method for drying your squishmallow is to allow it to air dry. After a wash, squishmallows should be squeezed gently to remove excess water, then left in a warm, dry place to dry naturally. Direct sunlight is not recommended as it can lead to color fading. With the correct drying method, you can ensure that your squishmallow remains soft, fluffy, and free from any damaging effects such as shrinkage or color fading caused by inappropriate drying methods.

Care and Maintenance Tips for Squishmallows

Regular Cleaning Vs Thorough Cleaning

Regular cleaning is enough to keep squishmallows clean and fluffy, as simple dusting or gentle spot cleaning can maintain their hygiene levels. Common dirt or stains can be simply cleaned using a damp cloth, or baby wipes can be quite effective. However, thorough cleaning might be required when your squishmallow has been through a tougher situation like food or drink spills, having been on an outdoor adventure, or simply after a good amount of time. In such instances, washing them using previously mentioned methods becomes essential.

Safe Storage of Squishmallows

The way you store your squishmallow impacts the maintenance and longevity of the plush toy. Squishmallows should be kept in a clean, dry place away from direct sunlight. This is essential to avoid color fading and maintain their plush quality. Additionally, they should be stored ideally in a spacious place. Compressing them in a very confined space might impact their fluffiness.

Following Manufacturer's Instructions

One best practice when caring for Squishmallows is always to refer to and follow manufacturer's instructions provided on the toy's tag or packaging. These instructions give precise information on what wash cycle to use, the best temperature for washing, and whether or not a particular squishmallow is machine washable. Adhering to manufacturer's instructions is a foolproof way to keep the squishmallow soft, retain its color, and prolong its life.