Squishmallows are beloved for their soft textures and colorful designs. Proper cleaning helps maintain their plush feel and prolongs their life. This guide provides practical methods and safe products for routine cleaning, stain treatment, and upkeep.
Quick Answer
Gentle hand wash is usually best for Squishmallows. Use delicate fabric detergent for stuffed animals 16 oz and a mesh laundry bag for washing stuffed animals to protect the toy. For stubborn spots, try fabric stain remover spray for plush toys, then air dry or lightly steam to restore fluff.
What You’ll Need
- Delicate fabric detergent for stuffed animals 16 oz
- Mesh laundry bag for washing stuffed animals
- Soft bristle brush for cleaning plush toys
- Handheld garment steamer for delicate fabrics
- Fabric stain remover spray for plush toys
Before You Start
Prepare a clean workspace and check the Squishmallow’s care label for any warnings. Use cold or lukewarm water to avoid color bleed, and test stains on a hidden area first. Do not machine-dry plush toys unless the care label specifies. Plan for 30–60 minutes for washing and air drying. Protect delicate fabrics by avoiding harsh scrubbing and high heat.
Step-By-Step: How To Clean Squishmallows
- Inspect the toy for loose seams or damage before cleaning.
- Remove surface debris with a soft bristle brush for cleaning plush toys in gentle circular motions.
- Fill a basin with cold or lukewarm water and add a small amount of delicate fabric detergent for stuffed animals 16 oz.
- Submerge the Squishmallow in the soapy water and use gentle squeezing motion to loosen dirt; avoid harsh rubbing.
- For stains, spray a little fabric stain remover spray for plush toys on a clean cloth and dab the area—do not soak the fabric.
- Place the toy in a mesh laundry bag for washing stuffed animals and run a gentle cycle with cold water.
- Remove from the bag and gently press out excess water; do not wring the toy.
- Reshape the toy and lay it flat on a clean towel to air dry; avoid direct sunlight.
- Use a handheld garment steamer for delicate fabrics to refresh the plush once dry, holding the steamer at a safe distance to prevent soaking.
- Fluff the fabric with hands or a dry brush to restore softness once completely dry.
- For deep cleaning, repeat the wash cycle with minimal agitation and ensure thorough drying to prevent mildew.
Troubleshooting
| Symptom | Likely Cause | Fix | Prevention |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stains persist after wash | Stains were set or heavily soiled | Gently reapply fabric stain remover spray and blot with a clean cloth, repeat wash | Spot-treat promptly; soak only briefly |
| Color bleeding | Unstable dyes or hot water | Wash in cold water; separate from colorfast items | Test a hidden area before washing |
| Stiff or crunchy fabric after drying | Over-drying or insufficient fluffing | Fluff with hands and brush; allow extra air-drying time | Avoid excessive heat |
| Water resistant to rinse | Excessive detergent residue | Rinse twice with clean water | Use the recommended detergent amount |
| Seams loosening | Rough handling during cleaning | Handle gently; avoid twisting or pulling | Inspect regularly and repair early |
Common Mistakes
- Using harsh detergents or bleach on plush toys
- Soaking the toy for too long or using hot water
- Aggressive scrubbing that damages fabric fibers
- Skipping the drying step, which invites mildew
Tips For Best Results
- Opt for cold-water washes and delicate fabric detergent for stuffed animals 16 oz to preserve color and texture.
- Keep a dedicated mesh laundry bag for washing stuffed animals to shield the toy during machine cleaning.
- Use the soft bristle brush for cleaning plush toys only for surface debris; avoid deep scrubbing.
- Follow with a light handheld garment steamer for delicate fabrics to lift nap and restore fluff.
Call A Professional
Seek professional cleaning if a Squishmallow has extensive staining, water damage, or a ripped seam that requires repair. Stop cleaning and consult a toy restoration expert when color fades unevenly, odors persist after multiple cleanings, or structural integrity is compromised.
FAQ
Can Squishmallows be machine washed?
Yes, but best practice is to use a gentle cycle with a mesh laundry bag for washing stuffed animals and cold water.
How should I dry Squishmallows after washing?
Air dry flat away from direct heat or sunlight; fluff with hands or a soft brush once dry.
Is there a risk of shrinking?
There is a small risk with high heat; always use cold water and avoid the dryer unless the care label allows.
How do I remove tough stains?
Apply fabric stain remover spray for plush toys to a cloth and dab, then wash as usual.
Can I steam Squishmallows?
Light steaming with a handheld garment steamer for delicate fabrics can refresh fibers, but avoid soaking the fabric.
What if the toy gets musty after washing?
Ensure complete drying and consider a brief steaming session to refresh the nap and eliminate odors.
Are all Squishmallows safe to clean this way?
Most are, but always check the care label for any specific instructions or restrictions.
Buying Guide
Choosing cleaning supplies that fit your Squishmallows’ needs helps maintain softness and color. Consider size, washing approach, and fabric care when selecting products.
Size and care impact The size of the toy influences wash time and whether you’ll use a bag or hand wash. For smaller toys, a gentle wash cycle with a mesh bag often suffices; larger stuffed animals may require hand washing.
Noise level and energy use A handheld steamer offers quiet operation and quick refresh, while machine washing uses more energy. Choose tools that fit your cleaning cadence.
Energy efficiency Look for compact steamers and energy-conscious detergents that work in small batches without heating large volumes of water.
Controls Simple, straightforward controls on a mesh bag and a gentle detergent minimize errors. Labels and usage directions should be clear and easy to follow.
Placement Prepare a clean, well-ventilated area for washing and drying. Use a drying rack or flat surface to avoid misshaping during air drying.