Ever found your beloved Squishmallow looking a little worse for wear after countless snuggles? You’re not alone in wondering if you can simply toss it in the washing machine for a quick refresh. With these plush toys being favorites for kids and adults alike, keeping them clean without ruining their softness is a must.
In this article, we’ll clearly answer if washing machines are Squishmallow-safe and share easy cleaning steps and tips to keep your cuddly friend looking as good as new.
Related Video
Can Squishmallows Go in the Washing Machine? The Complete Guide
If you’re a Squishmallow fan or have a few in your home (or perhaps an entire army!), you may find yourself wondering: “Can I safely toss my Squishmallows in the washing machine?” After all, these beloved plushies are cherished by kids and adults alike, and with all that hugging and cuddling, they’re bound to get a bit dirty over time.
Below, we’ll answer your question thoroughly, walk through the safest cleaning methods, address potential concerns, and offer practical care tips to keep your Squishmallows as soft and squishy as the day you got them.
The Short Answer
Yes, you can wash Squishmallows in a washing machine — but only if you do it carefully and correctly. While Squishmallows are made to be soft, squishy, and durable, they require some special attention during cleaning to avoid damage or loss of fluffiness. Hand washing is often preferred for delicate or rare Squishmallows, but machine washing is possible for many with the right steps.
Machine Washing Squishmallows: What You Need to Know
Not all washing methods are equal when it comes to plush toys. Squishmallows have a unique marshmallow-like texture and are filled with a soft, squishy stuffing that can be damaged if not cared for properly. Here’s a breakdown of what you need to consider.
Squishmallow Construction
- Outer Material: Polyester fabric, known for being soft and cuddly.
- Filling: Polyester fiberfill, which gives the plush its signature squish.
Key Risks With Machine Washing
- Loss of fluffiness or shaping.
- Torn seams or holes, especially if washed on harsh cycles.
- Color fading if exposed to hot water or harsh detergents.
When Is Machine Washing Safe?
Machine washing is generally safe when:
- The Squishmallow is free of accessories, glued-on pieces, or delicate embroidery.
- It is not a rare, collectible, or sensitive plush.
- It doesn’t contain electronic or noise-making components.
Squishmallows that are very old, have loose stitching, or special decorations should be spot cleaned or hand washed instead.
How to Wash Squishmallows in a Washing Machine: Step-by-Step
Want to give your Squishmallow a thorough clean without sacrificing its cozy softness? Here’s a guide to machine washing them safely:
1. Prepare Your Squishmallow
- Check for Damage: Examine for holes, loose seams, or vulnerable threads. Sew any weak areas before washing.
- Remove Accessories: Take off clothes, hats, or attached fabric items.
- Spot Clean Stains: If there are sticky spots or stains, dab them with a damp cloth and mild soap.
2. Use a Laundry Bag or Pillowcase
- Place your Squishmallow inside a zippered mesh laundry bag or a clean pillowcase.
- Secure the opening by tying or zipping. This protects the plush from direct agitation and stretching in the machine.
3. Choose the Right Settings
- Water Temperature: Always use cold water. Hot water may harm the fabric and make colors fade.
- Cycle: Select the gentle or delicate cycle. Avoid regular or heavy-duty cycles as they may batter the plush.
- Detergent: Use only a small amount of mild, fragrance-free, liquid detergent. Avoid bleach or fabric softeners.
4. Load Sparingly
- Never overload the washing machine. Wash Squishmallows with a small load of similar soft items. Don’t add heavy towels or jeans, as they may crush the plush.
5. Start Washing
- Let the machine run its cycle. Avoid any settings with a strong spin. If possible, use a low spin speed or no-spin cycle.
6. Remove and Inspect
- After washing, remove the Squishmallow promptly. Inspect for any signs of damage or soap residue.
How to Dry Squishmallows
Proper drying is just as important as proper washing. Here are safe ways to dry your Squishmallows:
1. Air Drying (Recommended)
- Gently reshape your Squishmallow to its original form.
- Lay it flat on a clean, dry towel in a well-ventilated area.
- Flip occasionally to promote even drying.
- Pat sometimes to fluff and keep the fibers from clumping.
Tip: Direct sunlight may cause fading, so dry indoors or in shaded areas.
2. Machine Drying (Use with Care)
Some people use a dryer for convenience, but extreme heat can damage plush toys. If you must use a dryer:
- Place the toy in a pillowcase or mesh bag.
- Choose “Air Fluff” or the coolest tumble setting.
- Add a few clean tennis balls to help ‘re-fluff’ the stuffing.
- Dry for short intervals (10-15 minutes at a time), checking frequently.
Never use high heat—this can shrink or melt the outer fabric or lining.
Benefits of Properly Washing Your Squishmallows
- Keeps plushies clean, safe, and allergen-free.
- Maintains their softness and restores fluffiness.
- Removes odors, dust, and possible stains from frequent handling.
- Increases longevity by preventing buildup of grit and grime.
Challenges and Mistakes to Avoid
While washing Squishmallows is usually straightforward, here are some common pitfalls and how to avoid them:
Overloading the Machine
- Too many plushies at once—or washing with heavy laundry—can cause deformation or tearing.
- Solution: Wash one or two at a time, and keep the load light.
Using the Wrong Detergent
- Harsh or scented detergents may irritate sensitive skin or leave a residue.
- Solution: Use only mild, fragrance-free detergent.
Ignoring Care Labels
- Some Squishmallows may have specific washing instructions sewn into the tag.
- Solution: Always check and follow any special instructions provided.
Improper Drying
- High heat or tumble drying without a pillowcase can damage the toy.
- Solution: Air dry wherever possible or use a low/no-heat setting in the dryer.
Spot Cleaning and Hand Washing: When Should You Choose These?
Sometimes, tossing your Squishmallow in the washer isn’t the best choice. Here’s when you should hand wash or spot clean:
- Small stains or spills.
- Rare or collectible Squishmallows that you want to preserve.
- Squishmallows with delicate features (e.g., embroidery, glued decorations, or special fabrics).
- After repairs: If you’ve recently mended seams, avoid machine washing until you’re sure repairs are strong.
Hand washing involves gently working mild soapy water into the fabric using a soft cloth or sponge, then rinsing with clean water and squeezing (not wringing) out excess moisture.
Spot cleaning allows you to target problem areas without wetting the entire toy.
Practical Tips for Keeping Squishmallows Clean and Fluffy
- Encourage hand washing before and after play, especially for children.
- Store Squishmallows in clean, dry places to avoid dust and moisture buildup.
- Avoid exposing them to food, drinks, or tough-to-remove substances.
- Regularly plump and reshape to maintain their attractive softness.
The Bottom Line
Squishmallows can be washed in a washing machine, but only with proper precautions. Use gentle settings, a laundry bag or pillowcase, and mild detergent. Most importantly, allow them to air dry whenever possible to keep their famous fluffiness intact.
Routine care and spot cleaning can minimize the need for frequent washing, so your Squishmallows stay squishy and adorable for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can all Squishmallows go in the washing machine?
No, not all Squishmallows are suitable for machine washing. If your Squishmallow has delicate accessories, glued-on decorations, is rare, or shows signs of wear, it’s better to hand wash or spot clean. Always check the care label for specific washing instructions.
Should I use hot or cold water when washing my Squishmallow?
Cold water is always best for washing Squishmallows. Hot water can cause fabric damage, color fading, or shrinking. Gentle, cold cycles are safest for preserving softness and color.
Can I put my Squishmallow in the dryer?
Air drying is generally recommended for Squishmallows. If you must use a dryer, select the air fluff or no-heat setting, and place your Squishmallow in a pillowcase or laundry bag to prevent rough agitation. Never use high heat, as it can damage the fabric and filling.
What if my Squishmallow loses its shape after washing?
After washing and while the plush is still damp, gently reshape your Squishmallow by massaging and fluffing the stuffing inside. Continued patting and smoothing during the drying process can help it return to its original form.
How often should I wash my Squishmallow?
Wash your Squishmallow only as needed. Frequent washing can cause wear over time, so spot clean between full washes. Washing every few months is usually plenty unless the plush becomes visibly dirty or smelly.