Squishmallows have overtaken the world with their irresistibly soft texture and adorable designs. Whether you use them as cuddle buddies, stress relievers, or simply as cute room decor, keeping them clean is essential to maintaining their plush feel and vibrant appearance. Over time, Squishmallows can collect dust, stains, and odours, making regular washing necessary. However, improper cleaning can damage their softness and structure. This guide will teach you how to wash squishmallows effectively while preserving their huggable charm.
Understanding Squishmallow Materials: Why Gentle Care Matters
Before starting the washing process, it’s important to understand what Squishmallows are made of. These plush toys are crafted from ultra-soft polyester fibres and filled with memory foam-like stuffing that provides their signature squishy feel. Unlike traditional stuffed animals, Squishmallows require extra care to avoid damaging their delicate fibres. Using harsh detergents, excessive heat, or rough handling can cause them to lose their softness or even deform.
Machine Washing Method: A Convenient Cleaning Option
Learning how to wash Squishmallows fresh and clean doesn’t have to be a hassle! Machine washing offers a quick and efficient way to remove dirt and stains while maintaining softness. Following the right steps, you can safely wash your Squishmallow without worrying about damage, ensuring it stays cuddly and plush for years.
Getting Your Squishmallow Ready for a Safe Wash
Before washing, remove any accessories or loose attachments to prevent tangling. To protect its soft fibres from excessive agitation, place your Squishmallow inside a mesh laundry bag or a pillowcase tied securely at the top.
Selecting the Best Wash Settings
A front-loading washing machine is available for a gentle clean, as top-loading machines with agitators can be too rough. To prevent fabric shrinkage or distortion, better understand how to wash Squishmallows. Set the machine to a delicate or gentle cycle and use cold or lukewarm water.
Choosing a Gentle, Plush-Safe Detergent
To keep your Squishmallow soft and safe, opt for a mild, fragrance-free detergent without harsh chemicals. Avoid using bleach or fabric softeners, as they can weaken the plush material and reduce its fluffiness over time.
Starting the Wash Cycle
Ensure your Squishmallow has enough space to move freely inside the machine for an even clean. After learning how to wash Squishmallows and once everything is set, start the wash cycle and let the machine do its job, ensuring a fresh and cuddly result!
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Hand Washing Method: Best for Delicate and Stubborn Stains
Hand washing is the ideal method for a gentle yet effective clean and to preserve your Squishmallow’s softness and shape. This approach is perfect for tackling stubborn stains or giving extra care to delicate plush. You can refresh your Squishmallow with the right technique without compromising its cuddly texture!
Preparing a Gentle, Soapy Bath
Start by filling a sink or basin with lukewarm water and adding a small amount of mild detergent. This creates a gentle cleaning solution that effectively removes dirt without damaging the plush fabric of your Squishmallow.
Spot Cleaning with Care
Using a soft cloth or sponge, gently scrub the stained areas in circular motions to lift dirt and grime. For tougher stains, let your Squishmallow soak in the soapy water for 5–10 minutes before scrubbing to loosen any embedded debris. Stay with us and learn how to wash Squishmallows carefully!
Rinsing Away Residue for a Fresh Finish
Once clean, drain the soapy water and rinse your Squishmallow under fresh, lukewarm water. Gently squeeze out excess soap without twisting or wringing, which could distort its shape. A careful rinse ensures your plush stays soft, fluffy, and ready for cuddles!
Drying Squishmallows: The Right Way to Preserve Softness
After washing your Squishmallow, proper drying is essential to keep it soft, fluffy, and in perfect shape. While air drying is the safest method, a no-heat dryer setting can speed up the process without damaging the plush fabric. Follow these steps on how to wash Squishmallows to ensure your Squishmallow stays as cuddly as ever!
Air Drying: The Best Way to Keep It Fluffy
For the safest and most effective drying, place your freshly washed Squishmallow on a dry towel and gently press to remove excess moisture. Let it air dry indoors in a well-ventilated space, keeping it away from direct sunlight to prevent colour fading. To maintain its plush shape, fluff it occasionally as it dries.
Using a Dryer: Is It Safe?
While air drying is the best option, you can use a dryer on a no-heat (air fluff) setting for quicker drying. To help retain its softness, toss in a few clean tennis balls wrapped in socks to gently fluff the fabric. After understanding how to wash Squishmallows avoiding high heat, as it can shrink or melt the plush material, ruining your Squishmallow’s signature softness.
Removing Stains and Odors Without Washing
Sometimes, a full wash isn’t necessary to keep your Squishmallow fresh. Quick, gentle cleaning methods can easily tackle minor stains and lingering odours. With simple spot-cleaning techniques and natural deodorisers, you can keep your plush-looking and smell great without the hassle of a full wash.
Spot Cleaning: A Quick Fix for Stains
Mix a little water with mild detergent for small stains and dip a soft cloth into the solution. Learn how to wash Squishmallows and gently dab the stained area, careful not to oversaturate the fabric. Once the stain lifts, wipe the area with a clean, damp cloth to remove any soap residue, then let it air dry completely.
Deodorising: Keeping Your Squishmallow Smelling Fresh
To eliminate odours, sprinkle a small amount of baking soda over the Squishmallow and let it sit for 15–20 minutes to absorb any unwanted smells. Gently brush off the baking soda using a soft brush, then lightly mist the plush with a fabric-safe spray for a fresh, clean scent.
Storage and Maintenance Tips: Keeping Squishmallows Clean Longer
Keeping your Squishmallows fresh and fluffy doesn’t have to be a challenge! Proper storage and regular upkeep allow you to maintain their softness and prevent dust, stains, or odours. Follow these simple tips for how to wash Squishmallows to keep your plush looking and feeling as good as new for years.
- Regular Dusting: Use a lint roller or a soft brush to remove surface dust.
- Store in a Clean, Dry Place: Avoid damp areas where mould or mildew can develop.
- Rotate Usage: If you have multiple Squishmallows, alternate which ones you use to minimise wear.
- Keep away from Pets. Animals may chew on or shed fur on your plushies, making them dirty faster.
- Use a Protective Cover: If storing for long periods, place Squishmallows in breathable bags to keep them dust-free.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Following these steps for how to wash Squishmallows ensures that your Squishmallows remain soft, fluffy, and looking as good as new. Whether you wash them by hand or in the machine, gentle care is the key to preserving their comforting squishiness!
- Using Hot Water or Harsh Detergents can cause fabric damage and make Squishmallows lose their softness.
- Skipping the Mesh Bag for Machine Washing – Direct exposure to the agitator may result in tears or misshapen plush.
- Wringing or Twisting Excess Water can deform the Squishmallow’s shape and break down the stuffing.
- Using High Heat in the Dryer – Heat can shrink, melt, or harden the fabric, making Squishmallows lose their cuddly feel.
- Overloading the Washing Machine – Too many plushies in one load may not clean properly and cause uneven washing.
- Not Fluffing During Drying – Helps maintain the plushness and prevents lumps in the stuffing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Wash My Squishmallow In The Washing Machine?
Yes, but to prevent damage, use a mesh laundry bag, a gentle cycle, and cold or lukewarm water.
Can I Dry My Squishmallow In A Dryer?
Yes, but only on a no-heat (air fluff) setting with tennis balls in socks to maintain its softness.
What Detergent Should I Use For Washing Squishmallows?
Use a mild, fragrance-free detergent without bleach or fabric softeners to protect the plush fabric.
Conclusion
With the right cleaning techniques, learn how to wash squishmallows, and your squishmallows can stay soft, fluffy, and fresh for years. Gentle care is key, whether you machine wash, hand wash, or spot clean. Proper drying and storage also play a crucial role in maintaining their plush feel. Follow these tips to keep your Squishmallows looking and smelling their best!
