They are soft, huggable, and loveable. Squishmallows are whimsical creatures that gained an instant popularity on TikTok in 2020 and seem to be a fan favorite among kids, teens, and adults alike. They're cute and cuddly, but for many parents, keeping them clean can become quite the task. If you're wondering how to wash Squishmallows, we have loads of tips on how to launder these lovies!
How to Spot Clean Squishmallows
Spot cleaning is the recommended choice for washing these plush toys. This is a great option for handling small stains and marks.
1. Remove as Much Residue as Possible by Hand
For stains that involve food, mud, and other natural components, take a butter knife and use the non-serrated edge to gently scrape away as much of the debris as possible.
2. Use a Wet Wipe or Stain Remover to Address Small Spots
The company advises customers to use either a simple stain remover or a Wet Wipe to work out small stains. However, for tough stains, combine:
- 1 teaspoon of Dawn dish soap
- 1 teaspoon of white vinegar
- 4 cups of cold water
Grab a clean cloth, dip it in the mixture and then blot the affected area. Next, submerge a second cloth in cold water to wash away the soap-vinegar mix. Repeat until the stain is gone.
Always spot test cleaning solutions on the base of the Squishmallow to ensure that they will not damage the fabric. These squishable stuffed animals are made from polyester, so look for solutions that are compatible with this fabric type.
How to Handwash Squishmallows
If your Squishmallow is needing a little extra TLC or you have a big Squishmallows that will waste a lot of space in the washing machine, simply follow the same spot cleaning steps above, followed by these instructions.
1. Use Detergent and a Damp Cloth to Clean the Fabric
Grab a plastic tupperware bin and combine a small amount of your normal laundry detergent and cold water. Pour the mixture into a spray bottle and apply a light layer to the Squishmallow. Then, wet a clean cloth with water and gently scrub the surface of the Squishmallow.
2. Rinse in the Kitchen Sink
Next, using the spray function on your kitchen faucet, rinse the Squishmallow in cold water. You don't want to soak the Squishmallow, as this could distort the shape, so keep the water level low and only rinse until the suds are gone.
3. Allow the Squishmallow to Air Dry
Lay your clean Squishmallow on a flat surface to air dry. If it seems slightly distorted from washing, use your hands to reform the stuffed toy before allowing it to sit out.
If you're looking to disinfect these loveable toys after they've helped your little one recover from an illness, Clorox disinfecting mist can be a great option. It is free of bleach, and you can apply a light layer over the Squishmallow. Just like with stain removers, always spot check this solution first.
Can I Wash Squishmallows in a Washing Machine?
According to the Squishmallow website, these plush toys will not fare well in your washer. In fact, they specify they should not be "submerged in any way". This can cause this stuffed toy to lose its shape and cause the texture of the fabric to change.
With that being said, spot cleaning is not always an option for the parents of toddlers and young kids. Not only that, but many of these youngsters love to help their Squishmallows go for a swim, so submersion is less of a concern.
How to Wash Squishmallows in the Washer
For those prepared to forego manufacturer instructions, here is how to wash Squishmallows and prevent them from losing their shape or incurring large texture changes.
1. Remove Any Residue by Hand
Just as you would with spot cleaning, use the non-serrated edge of a butter knife to carefully scrape away any residue. You can also use a stain remover pen to treat tougher spots.
2. Place the Squishmallow in a Zipper Pillow Case or Delicates Bag
Squishmallows have a delicate feel, which means that they require a delicate touch. By placing them in a cloth bag, you help to protect this plush item from getting snagged on other clothing items in the wash or by the openings in the washbasin.
Many parents may be wondering how to wash a big Squishmallow that won't fit in one of these small cloth bags. Instead of a pillowcase, grab a flat twin bedsheet and tie the four corners together to create a makeshift bag.
3. Wash on a Cold Gentle Cycle
Heat will damage your Squishmallow, so washing it in cold water and on a gentle cycle is imperative when cleaning these stuffed toys in a washing machine. Additionally, normal detergent is a fine choice for cleaning these items, but we recommend avoiding harsh chemicals like bleach.
Washing these items with other soft bedding and linens is a great way to help them maintain their shape!
4. Allow the Squishmallow to Air Dry
For best results, remove your Squishmallow from the bag that you initially placed it in and allow it to air dry on a flat surface. If it became distorted in the wash cycle, take a minute to reshape it with your hands before allowing it to dry.
For the parents in a rush to get their child's cuddly creature back to them before bedtime, you have the option to put the Squishmallow in the dryer, as long as you do it on an air fluff cycle with no heat.
5. Fluff Your Squishmallow Back to Its Perfectly Plush Shape
Per the website, the best way to get these plush toys back to their perfectly round shape is with hugs! Squeeze and squish until they are back to their original plump figure.
Wash Your Squishmallows Once a Month
While they may appear to still be looking their best, kids bring loads of germs to virtually everything they touch. Washing your Squishmallows once a month is a great way to remove the dust, dander, drool, sweat, and fungi that could be lurking just below the adorable surface.
