How To Wash Squishmallows
Did your squishmallow get dirty? If yes, you must read our guide on how to wash Squishmallows.
Squishmallows are those incredibly popular, ultra-soft stuffed animals that come in all shapes and sizes. You can find small or also you can buy giant squishmallows. Kids tend to take them everywhere, and they become cherished companions on various adventures.
We have prepared tips on how to wash Squishmallows, combining instructions from parents who’ve been there with the official recommendations from the Squishmallow brand.
Like any beloved toy, Squishmallows can gather their fair share of dirt through regular use. Knowing the right way to clean them can ensure they last a long time and remain as cuddly as ever. In this article, we’re going to take a deep dive into a comprehensive guide on how to clean Squishmallows.
Keep reading….
What Are Squishmallows?
Squishmallows are soft toys that feel like marshmallows. Kellytoy made them, and they became popular since 2017.
Each one has its own story. They come in many designs like animals, fantasy characters, and humans. There are different sizes to choose from. They’re fun to hug. 🧸🙂
What Are Squishmallows Made Of?
Squishmallows are made from a material called polyester. Polyester is what makes them feel soft and cuddly, but it also means you should follow some special instructions when you’re washing squishmallows to keep them in great shape.
Can You Wash Squishmallows?
When it’s time to clean your Squishmallows, you’ve got choices. You can either do some spot cleaning or give them a full wash in the washing machine.
Now, Squishmallows come in different sizes, from small ones that fit in your hand to really big ones that can be even bigger than your child. So, keep in mind that the size can make machine washing more or less convenient.
It’s important to know that the Squishmallow brand advises against using the washing machine for cleaning your toys. There’s a small risk if you decide to do it this way, although many folks have done it without any problems.
Why Should You Wash Squishmallows
Are you wondering if you should wash your Squishmallows? Well, it really depends on how you use them. If you use them as pillows, take them outside, or they end up on the floor, then yes, giving them a wash is a good idea. If they happen to get stained, then definitely, you should wash the squishmallows. However, if they mainly sit on display and don’t get much action, then you may not need to wash them.
Do They Recommend to Wash Squishmallows?
When you look at the tags on official Squishmallows, they usually suggest two methods: dry cleaning or spot cleaning.
But if you decide to do things differently, you should know that it comes with a bit of risk. Still, there are a few methods that many parents have found to work really well.
Squishmallow Cleaning Instructions
Before cleaning your Squishmallow, look at the maker’s cleaning tips.
The tag on it tells you how to clean it.
Most can be washed gently in a machine with cold water, but always check the tag first to be sure. 🧸🚿🏷️👍
Preparing Squishmallows for Cleaning
Before washing your Squishmallow, check for rips or loose parts.
If there’s a loose seam, fix it first.
Remove any extra bits so they don’t get lost or break in the wash. 🧸🛁🪡👌
How To Wash Squishmallows
Check the Tag For Washing Instructions
Before you clean your Squishmallow toy, check the tag that comes with it. This tag has important instructions to help you clean it properly without causing any harm.
The tag will tell you not to use a washing machine or soak your Squishmallow in water. This is because doing so could damage the inside stuffing and change how it feels.
But, many people who love Squishmallows, including us, have found safe ways to clean them. You can try gently cleaning tough spots, washing them by hand, or even using a washing machine if you’re careful.
So, the way you clean your Squishmallow depends on how dirty it is and what you’re comfortable doing.
Do Spot Cleaning
We sometimes have really big Squishmallows that can’t go in the washing machine. So, we usually clean them by hand and do spot cleaning.
Before you start, it’s a good idea to do a fabric spot test. Just take a cotton swab, put some stain remover on it, and try it on a part of the Squishmallow’s fabric that’s not easy to see.
If you notice any color coming off during the spot test, don’t use the stain remover or detergent. Just clean the Squishmallow with cold water.
But if the spot test doesn’t show any color transfer, you can gently wipe the dirty area with a damp cloth and then do spot cleaning with a mild detergent.
Remember, Squishmallows are made from safe materials, but they can be delicate, so handle them carefully when cleaning.
Cleaning Squishmallows With Soap: Spot Cleaning
Got a mark on your Squishmallow? Here’s how to clean it:
Make a mix: Use some gentle soap with warm water.
Clean the mark: Dip a soft cloth in the mix and rub the spot.
Rinse: Wipe off the soap with another wet cloth.
Pat it Dry
Once you’ve given your favorite bedtime buddies a good wash, make sure to dry them gently with a clean towel.
The best way to dry Squishmallows, in my opinion, is to let them air dry. Then it’s ready to play. 🧸💦🌼👍
You can use a dryer if you want, but it’s really important to avoid using an iron, any devices that get very hot, or anything with heat to dry your Squishmallows. These cute plush toys are made from a material called polyester, and if they get too hot, they can melt.
Too much heat can harm these cuddly toys, so it’s better to use a low heat setting in your dryer or simply let them air dry. Also, remember that they aren’t designed to be fire-resistant, so it’s important to be cautious with heat.
Can You Wash a Squishmallow With Washing Machine?
Even though the manufacturer recommends not using a washing machine, we’ve found that it’s usually okay to wash Squishmallows in one.
When we use a washing machine to wash squishmallows, we always choose the gentle cycle. It’s also important to use cold water to make sure the Squishmallows don’t get damaged or lose their shape.
Steps To Wash Squishmallows Using A Machine 🧸🚿🌬️🚫🔥
1. Place The Squishmallow in a Cloth or Safety Net
As we mentioned earlier, you usually only need to use a washing machine for your Squishmallows when they’ve gotten very dirty, like from encounters with frozen yogurt or a child’s muddy shoes, situations where just spot cleaning won’t do the job.
If you decide to wash your Squishmallows in the washing machine, it’s important to protect them by putting it inside a safety net or something similar, like a cloth bedding or a pillowcase.
NOTE: Never put your Squishmallow in the washing machine all by itself. This way, you can keep your Squishmallow clean and safe.
2. Place it in The Washer (Cold and Gentle)
First, when it’s time to wash your Squishmallows, remember to fill your washing machine with cool water. Using hot water is a no-go because it might harm these super-soft, marshmallow-like stuffed toys.
Now, gently put your Squishmallow into the washing machine, along with your regular laundry detergent. Make sure to choose cold water and pick a gentle washing setting to be super careful with your cuddly pals.
PRO TIP: You can also add some bedding to the wash. This extra bedding helps keep your Squishmallows from getting squished or losing their fluffy shape while they’re being cleaned. It’s like giving them a comfy, protective hug during the wash.
3. Tumble Dry (Low and Gentle)
- When your washing machine’s gentle cycle is done, take out your Squishmallow.
- Keep it inside the protective net and place it in the dryer using the low heat or air fluff setting. Remember, don’t use the “hot” setting—it’s not safe for your Squishmallow.
- If you’re not in a hurry, you can just let your plush toy air dry naturally. But if you prefer to use the dryer, make sure to choose the lowest heat setting to keep your Squishmallow safe and cozy.
4. Make Your Squishmallows Fluffy Again After Washing
After you’ve washed your Squishmallow, it might look a bit different and not as fluffy as before. But there’s a quick trick to fix that—just give it a few gentle squeezes and some loving hugs.
This helps spread out the stuffing inside and brings back the soft, cuddly shape you love so much. It’s an easy way to make your Squishmallow feel like new again.
How To Get Stains Out of Your Squishmallows
Cleaning stains out of Squishmallows might seem tricky, but we’ve got a good method—spot treatment.
Here’s what we usually do: If the stain is small, we use a damp cloth or a wet wipe with a stain remover or gentle detergent. But before you start, do a spot test.
Gently rub the stained spot with the damp cloth or wet wipe. If the stain doesn’t go away, put the wet wipes aside and try a stain remover pen or mild detergent. Give it another shot to remove the stain.
If the stain is still there despite your efforts, it might be time to think about using the washing machine.
Can You Put Squishmallows in The Dryer?
Yes, you can use a dryer for your Squishmallows. Just make sure to set it to the gentle mode and avoid high heat because it can make the fabric melt.
Also, it’s important not to leave your Squishmallows damp for too long. If they stay wet, they might develop mold and start to smell bad. So, keep them dry to keep them fresh.
Always be gentle with your squishmallow. 😊🌀👍
Things to Avoid While CleaningYour Squishmallow 🧸🚫🔥💧👎
- Drying Safely: Avoid using devices like hairdryers or irons, as they can get too hot and harm stuffed animals. If you must use a dryer, set it to low heat.
- No Microwaving: Never put your Squishmallow in the microwave; it’s not safe.
- Safe Washing: When washing your Squishmallow, always put it inside a safety net, pillowcase, or some kind of cloth.
- Gentle Cleaning: Don’t use regular soap when cleaning it. Stick to using cold or lukewarm water, not hot water.
- Extra Threads: Lastly, don’t try to pull out any extra threads that might be sticking out from your brand new Squishmallow.
By following these simple steps, you can clean Squishmallows safely and keep them in great shape.
How to Spot Clean Squishmallows?
When you need to clean small spots on your Squishmallows, the best method is to use a spot remover pen or a little detergent on a damp cloth.
Gently scrub the stained area and then rinse it off.
I understand if you’re worried about using a stain remover on Squishmallows, as it might cause a faded spot on the fabric. To be safe, you can always test it in a less visible spot.
However, using detergent is the safest option and is unlikely to change the color of your toy. People have recommended to spot clean Squishmallows, based on their experience.
How to Wash Squishmallows Safely? – Step-By-Step
Here’s an easy, step-by-step guide on how to wash your Squishmallows in the washing machine.
Supplies Needed:
- Use your washing machine and dryer.
- Small Squishmallow? Use a pillowcase. Big one? Use a sheet.
- Add the soap you like.
Steps to Wash Squishmallows
STEP 1: Put Squishmallow in a pillow case
Put your Squishmallow in a pillowcase. If it’s big, use a sheet and tie the corners.
This helps keep it safe in the wash.
STEP 2: Wash on cold and gentle
Wash your Squishmallow with regular soap on a cool setting. Don’t use hot water; it’s bad for the material.
Tip: Add some sheets when washing. It helps keep the Squishmallow’s shape and washes everything well. It’s like a gentle bath for them. 😊
STEP 3: Tumble Dry on low and gentle
Put the Squishmallow in the dryer inside its pillowcase. Use a low setting. No heat, okay?
Or, let it dry by itself in the air.
Important: Squishmallows don’t like heat. Always keep it cool. 😎
STEP 4: Fluff
Squeeze it to make it fluffy again. You might need to move the inside around with your fingers.
Kids? They’ll love helping with this fun step. 🥰
Can You Wash Squishmallows with Detergent?
You can use your regular soap for Squishmallows.
Remember the steps we talked about to keep them safe when washing. 😊🧼
How to Wash a Giant Squishmallow
If your Squishmallow fits in the washer, wash it there. If it’s too big for a pillowcase, wrap it in a sheet and tie it.
If you have the biggest squishmallow, you can clean spots by hand or use a big machine at the laundromat. 😊👍
Can you handwash Squishmallows?
If you don’t have a machine or don’t want to use it, you can wash your Squishmallow by hand. Use a bathtub or deep sink, add some soap, and rinse. It’s like giving it a bath. 🛁🧼
How to dry squishmallows
Don’t use heat on your Squishmallow because it can melt. No irons or hot dryers. Best to dry it on a cool setting or let it air dry. Keep it simple and safe. 😊🌬️
Can you put Squishmallows in the microwave?
Don’t microwave it. The inside material can melt. 😊🚫🔥
Drying Squishmallow With a Fan
To dry your Squishmallow fast, use a fan. Put your toy where there’s good air and place a fan close. Turn the fan on low or medium. This dries it quickly without using any heat. It’s a simple and safe way. 😊🌬️👍
Use Hairdryer on Cool Setting
To dry your Squishmallow quickly, use a hairdryer on cool or low heat. Don’t stay in one place too long. Avoid high heat so it doesn’t melt. 😊🌬️👍
Use a Paper Towel
After washing, press your Squishmallow softly to remove extra water. Wrap it in paper towels or a dry towel. Press lightly to dry it. Change the towels if they get very wet. Then, let it air dry or use a drying method we talked about. 😊🌬️👍
Can Squishmallows Grow Mold?
If your squishmallow gets wet and stays in a dark place, it might get moldy.
To clean mold, use white vinegar. Put it on the mold, wait an hour, then wash and dry.
You can also use hot water and oxy clean. Scrub the mold with a toothbrush, then wash.
If mold is inside, open it, remove the old stuffing, put new stuffing, and sew it. This needs sewing skills.
If there’s too much mold, maybe buy a new squishmallow. It might be easier and cheaper. 😊🧼🧵🛍️
How to Store A Squishmallow
To ensure your Squishmallows stay in excellent condition, storing them correctly when you’re not using them is crucial. Place them in a clean, dry area, away from any moisture or direct sunlight. This will help prevent both the growth of mold and any fading.
What Are The Most Popular Squishmallows of 2023?
| Squishmallow Characters 🦖🧸 | Description |
|---|---|
| Mickey and Minnie Mouse | Disney’s famous pair as soft toys. |
| Rachel Pink Tie-Dye Mushroom | A colorful 14-inch soft mushroom toy. |
| Kervena Tie-Dye Mushroom | Another bright mushroom toy that’s soft. |
| Malcolm Mushroom | A small 8-inch soft mushroom. |
| Kellytoy Fall Squad Plaid Cow | A 7.5-inch toy with a mushroom theme. |
| Axolotl | A special soft toy with a cute look. |
| Gordon the Shark | A soft shark toy. |
| Farm Animal Squishmallows | Soft toys of farm animals like pigs and chickens. |
| Dinosaur Squishmallows | Soft dinosaur toys like Tally and Danny. |
Washing A Squishmalllow With Hands
To Clean Your Squishmallow:
- Fill a basin with warm water.
- Add gentle soap.
- Got a stain? Rub it with some soap.
- Put your Squishmallow in the water. Move it around a bit.
- Take it out after a short time.
- Empty the basin and fill with clean water. Rinse your Squishmallow.
- Press it to get water out, but don’t twist.
- Let it dry on a towel. Avoid direct sun. A fan can help.
- When dry, make it fluffy again.
This guide helps you wash your Squishmallow simply and quickly. 🧸🛁👌
Tips for Maintaining Squishmallows
Keep your Squishmallows nice and clean with these easy steps:
- Away from Food: Keep them away from where you eat.
- Safe Spot: Store them in a clean, dry place.
- Wash Hands: Always play with clean hands.
- Quick Clean: Wipe them down sometimes to keep them fresh. 🧸🥤👐🧼
Squishmallows and Allergies: Extra Tips for Cleaning
If dust bothers you or your Squishmallow that hasn’t been used in a while, here’s how to clean it:
- Freeze it: Put your Squishmallow in a bag and freeze for a day. This helps remove tiny bugs.
- Wash: If you sneeze a lot, wash your toy often. Dry it fully so it doesn’t get moldy.
- Use Sprays: Some sprays help keep toys fresh. Always check the bottle’s instructions. 🧸🧊🚿🌟👃🤧
Conclusion
In conclusion, understanding how to wash Squishmallows is crucial for preserving their softness and cleanliness. By following these Squishmallow cleaning tips, you can ensure that your cherished companions remain in excellent condition for all your adventures and moments of comfort.
Please let us know how you wash your squishmallow or if you have some secret tips to wash squishmallows. 🧸💕🚿🌟🤗
