To wash a Squishmallow, place it in a pillowcase or mesh laundry bag and run it through the washing machine on a gentle, cold cycle with a mild detergent — or hand wash it in cool water for a gentler clean. Never put a Squishmallow in the dryer: the heat can melt the fibers, clump the stuffing, and ruin its signature softness. Instead, press out excess water (don’t wring) and air dry it flat, away from direct heat and sunlight.
Squishmallows have become household favorites, and washing them properly keeps these huggable companions in prime condition. Here’s how to clean them without compromising their plush.
Squishmallow care basics
Squishmallows have a soft outer shell made from a spandex and polyester blend, and they’re filled with polyester fiberfill — the combination is what gives them their signature squish. Both the shell and the fill are sensitive to heat and rough handling, so gentle cleaning is essential to preserve that plush feel.
Read the care label
Always check the care label first — the symbols tell you how to clean your Squishmallow without words. A squiggly line under a washing-tub icon means a gentle or delicate cycle, and a circle inside a square covers drying. Avoid high heat or tumble-drying, which damage the texture; air-dry in a well-ventilated spot away from direct sunlight instead.
How do you machine wash a Squishmallow?
Delicate is the name of the game. Place the Squishmallow in a pillowcase or mesh laundry bag for extra protection, then dial in gentle settings.
Select the right cycle
- Cold water: prevents colors from running.
- Gentle cycle: set a gentle or delicate cycle to safeguard the fabric.
- Slow spin: reduces distortion of the Squishmallow’s shape.
Avoid hot water and aggressive cycles, which compromise the texture.
Use a gentle detergent
- Mild liquid detergent: free of dyes and perfumes.
- Detergent for delicates: products made for delicates or baby clothes work well.
- Homemade solution: a small amount of mild dish soap in water is a gentle alternative.
Harsh chemicals can damage the soft fabric and cause pilling or fading, so lean toward detergents labeled ‘sensitive’ or ‘gentle.’
How do you hand wash a Squishmallow?
For a more careful clean, hand washing is an excellent alternative. Fill a basin with cool to lukewarm water and add a small amount of gentle detergent. Softly squeeze your Squishmallow in the water so the suds penetrate the plush fabric, then rinse under cool running water until all the suds are gone. Press out the water gently — never wring or twist — and lay it flat to dry.
Spot-cleaning for minor messes
For light spills, address them quickly to prevent staining. Often a damp cloth with a little mild soap is all it takes — gently dab rather than scrub to protect the fabric, then blot with a separate damp cloth to remove soap residue so it doesn’t dry and leave marks.
Spot-cleaning stubborn stains
For tougher stains, a small amount of a stain remover made for delicate fabrics can help. Follow the product instructions, use the minimum amount needed, and test an inconspicuous area first to avoid discoloration. If a stain persists or you’re unsure about a product, professional cleaning is the safer route.
Full-submersion hand washing
For a thorough clean, submerge the Squishmallow in a basin of cool water with a little mild detergent. Avoid vigorous scrubbing — tenderly squeeze the suds through, agitating the water periodically to dislodge grime. Drain the soapy water, refill with clean water, and squeeze repeatedly until it runs clear. Then press the plush between towels to wick away moisture without distorting its shape.
How do you dry a Squishmallow without damage?
Patience and gentleness are key. Direct heat from a conventional dryer can be damaging, so skip that shortcut.
Why Squishmallows shouldn’t go in the dryer
The soft fabric and the stuffing that gives Squishmallows their squish react poorly to high heat. A dryer’s aggressive tumble and heat can melt the fibers and clump the inner material, compromising the plush and turning that velvety softness stiff. Air-drying preserves the cloud-like feel far better.
Air-drying steps
- Press out excess water gently, with no rough twisting.
- Lay the Squishmallow flat on a clean, dry towel, away from direct sunlight.
- Turn it every few hours so every side dries evenly.
- Don’t wring or squish it, which can misshape the stuffing.
- Be patient — a full air-dry can take 24–48 hours depending on humidity.
FAQ
Can Squishmallows go in the dryer?
No — the heat can damage the fabric and ruin the shape and texture of the toy.
How do you dry a Squishmallow?
Gently squeeze out excess water and let it air dry. Avoid direct heat sources like hair dryers or heaters.
Can Squishmallows go in the washing machine?
Yes — place the toy in a laundry bag or pillowcase, and use a gentle cycle with cold water and mild detergent. Avoid bleach and harsh chemicals.
How do you clean Squishmallows without ruining them?
Spot clean stains with a mild detergent and a soft cloth, gently dabbing rather than rubbing, then let the toy air dry completely before using or storing it.
How do you wash a Squishmallows pet bed?
Remove the cover if possible and follow the manufacturer’s care instructions. Most are machine washable — use a gentle cycle with cold water and mild detergent, then air dry (or tumble dry on low only if recommended).
What are Squishmallows filled with?
They’re filled with polyester fiberfill, which makes them soft, huggable, and squishy. The fiberfill is hypoallergenic and safe for children.
