Don’t let your beloved Squishmallow collection collect dust in a toy box, you might have the rarest Squishmallow. These huggable and adorable stuffed toys are meant to be enjoyed, hugged, and slept with, but their cuteness also makes them prone to getting dirty. Want to keep them clean without damaging them? Here’s how to wash squishmallows.
3 Steps to Hand wash a Squishmallow
1. Read The Washing Instructions First
Reading the care instructions tag on your Squishmallow is crucial before washing it to avoid any damage. According to the manufacturer, machine washing and submerging the Squishmallow should be avoided to prevent changes in stuffing and texture. So it is at your own risk to wash. However, I have spot-cleaned, hand-washed, and machine-washed squishmallows successfully. It just takes using the right washing techniques.
2. Do Spot-Cleaning
For large Squishmallows that do not fit in a machine washer, hand washing, and spot cleaning are required. Before using any stain remover, do a fabric spot test using a cotton swab dipped in the solution on a less visible area of the Squishmallow. If the color comes off, discontinue using the stain remover pen or detergent. Clean only with cold water. For tough stains, gently wipe the area with a damp cloth or wet wipes and use a mild detergent for spot cleaning. Keep in mind that Squishmallows contain no toxic chemicals and may be delicate to handle.
3. Pat It Dry
After washing your Squishmallows, use a clean towel to remove excess water and then allow them to air-dry. This is the best way to dry them. While you can use a dryer, it’s recommended to avoid using high-heat sources such as an iron or handheld heating appliance to speed up the drying process as too much heat can harm the plush toys. Squishmallows made of polyester fibers should only be dried using low heat or air-drying as they are not flame-retardant.
Can You Put a Squishmallow Inside the Washing Machine?
I have washed many of my kid’s squishmallows in a washing machine. To avoid deformation and damage, it is recommended to use the delicate washing cycle setting and cool water.
5 Steps in Washing Squishmallows Using a Washing Machine
1. Place The Squishmallow In A Washbag or Pillowcase
To wash Squishmallows in a washing machine, it’s crucial to protect them by putting them in a wash bag or pillow covers. Do not wash them directly in the washing machine.
2. Put It In The Washer (Cold & Gentle)
Wash the Squishmallow in a washing machine using cool water only. Hot water can harm the plush material as it is stuffed with soft, marshmallow-like polyester fibers. Doing a machine wash is the best way to get really dirty squishmallows clean again.
Add the Squishmallow to the washing machine along with your regular laundry detergent and choose a gentle cycle setting. Avoid using hot water as it can melt the stuffing. Wrapping the Squishmallow in a protective net or cloth bedding, such as pillow covers, during the wash can prevent it from becoming too squished or flat.
3. Tumble Dry Squishmallows (Low & Gentle)
Once the delicate wash cycle is complete, remove your Squishmallow from the washing machine and leave it in the wash bag. You can dry it in a dryer on low heat or simply air dry. However, it’s recommended to air dry if you’re not in a hurry and avoid using the ‘hot’ setting as it may cause damage to the plush toy. You can also pop in a flat bed sheet in the dryer to stop the toy from bouncing around too much in the dryer. Alternatively, you can also try a handheld heated appliance like a hairdryer.
4. Make It Fluffy Again
After washing the Squishmallow, it may become deformed. To restore its shape, give it a few gentle squeezes and hugs. This will redistribute the stuffing and bring back its fluffy appearance.
Squishmallows come in a variety of sizes.
Now you know how to wash squishmallows.
How to Get A Stain Out of Squishmallows
To remove stains from Squishmallows, you should start with a spot treatment. Wet a cloth or use a wet wipe, then apply a mild detergent or stain remover to the stained area. Before using any products, it’s important to do a spot test to ensure they don’t cause discoloration.
Gently rub the stained area with a damp cloth or wet wipe. If the stain doesn’t come out, replace the wipe with a stain remover pen or mild detergent and try again. If the stain still persists, it may be time to use the washing machine.
What You Should NEVER Do When Cleaning your Squishmallows
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Do not use a hairdryer, iron, or any heated appliance to dry it. If using a dryer, only use the low heat setting.
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Never put the Squishmallow in a microwave.
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Always place the Squishmallow in a safety net, pillowcase, or cloth before washing.
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Do not use soap when washing the Squishmallow.
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Only use cold or lukewarm water for washing, never hot water.
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Do not pull any extra thread sticking from a new Squishmallow.
FAQs
Does washing ruin Squishmallows?
I have washed my kids’ squishmallows many times and they have all been fine. However, I always wash them on a gentle cycle with cold water.
Can you wash Squishmallows with detergent?
Yes, you can wash Squishmallows with a mild detergent. It is important to use a mild laundry detergent to avoid damaging the fabric. Strong detergents can harm the fabric, and it’s recommended to use fabric softener as well. How to wash squishmallows is a really common question because small kids love them but they often have dirty hands.
Final Thoughts
Now you know how to wash squishmallows. Whether to wash your Squishmallow is a personal decision, as the manufacturer does not recommend it due to the risk of damaging the super squishy plush toys fabric and stuffing. However, if you regularly play and sleep with your Squishmallow, it may become dirty and need to be cleaned with a damp cloth. I wash my kid’s squishmallows, even the rare ones, and they have all come out fine.
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