Keeping your Squishmallows clean and looking their best is a must if you want to get the longest life out of your cuddly friends. Luckily, it's not as hard as you think! Here, we'll provide an overview of the steps you need to take, from determining which materials your Squishmallow is made of to figuring out how to wash them properly.
We'll cover the different types of materials that Squishmallows are made from, like fabric and fur, and give advice on the best methods for cleaning each one. We'll also discuss when it's not safe to wash a Squishmallow, such as when the stuffing material has been lost or deteriorated, or when the filling has been exposed due to wear and tear.
By using this guide, your Squishmallows will look their cutest for many snuggly occasions. So let's get started on our journey through the world of Squishmallow care!
Can Squishmallows Be Washed?
Yes! Squishmallows can be machine washed and dried using the gentle cycle on your washing machine. To keep your squishmallow looking its best for years to come, follow these instructions:
* Remove any excess dirt or stains from the surface of the toy with a damp cloth before washing.
* Place in a pillowcase or laundry bag to protect it from snagging on other items.
* Wash in cold water with a gentle, bleach-free detergent on the delicate cycle and then air dry.
* Steam clean to fluff up the squishmallow if needed.
Keep in mind that each squishmallow is differently made, so be sure to double-check the tags and tags for any special care instructions before you attempt to clean it.
How to Wash Your Squishmallow
The good news is that cleaning your Squishmallow is easy!
* **Hand-washing**: Start by filling a sink or bowl with cold water, add a mild detergent, and then submerge the Squishmallow completely. Leave the Squishmallow in the soapy water for about 10 minutes. After 10 minutes, gently scrub the surface with a clean cloth or sponge to remove any dirt and dust. Rinse off the soap with clean water and then leave it to air dry overnight.
* **Machine-washing**: Place your Squishmallow in a mesh bag or pillowcase and wash on a gentle cycle with cold water. Do not tumble dry as this can damage the material of your Squishmallow, just leave to air dry overnight like you would with hand-washing.
For extra cuddliness, consider adding fabric softener when machine-washing your Squishmallows! Make sure you use one that’s specifically designed for use on fabrics – chemical irritants found within some fabric softeners could be harmful if ingested by small children (or pets!)
Detergent & Equipment Requirements
Properly cleaning your squishmallow starts with the right detergent. Look for a detergent that is designed for sensitive fabrics, as this will ensure that your squishmallow isn't damaged during the cleaning process. Additionally, use warm water and a gentle cycle on a washing machine, as hot temperatures and harsher cycles can damage the fabric of your squishmallow.
It is also important to be aware of what items you are washing alongside your squishmallow. To ensure your toy's longevity and safety, avoid washing it with other items like clothing with zippers or other bulky items that can cause tears in the fabric. Opt instead for a collection of other soft toys to keep your squishmallow company during its wash cycle!
Finally, make sure to use either a standard washer or a front loader—top-loading machines may agitate too harshly, leading to excess wear and tear on both the material and the stitching that holds it together.
Care Tips for Washing Squishmallows
Your Squishmallow deserves all the care you can give it - which means regular washing! Here are some tips to make sure your Squishmallow remains as soft and cuddly as the day you got it.
Hand Washing - The best way to protect and clean your Squishmallows is by hand washing. Fill a sink with lukewarm water and a mild detergent, or use a gentle hand soap. Gently swish your Squishmallow in the water for several minutes before rinsing with cold water until the suds are gone. Avoid using sharp objects to rub and scrub the surface as it can damage the material. Gently squeeze out excess water then air dry away from direct heat.
Machine Washing - Most Squishmallows are suitable for machine washing, but check the care label first! Use cold water on a delicate cycle setting and avoid spinning or drying in the machine. Air drying is recommended for best results!
Drying Squishmallows
Once you've given your Squishmallow a good cleaning, it's time to dry. While the fabric needs to be completely dry before use, there are some things to keep in mind during the drying process:
1. Avoid direct sunlight – Sunlight can cause the colors of your Squishmallow to fade and weaken fabric fibers over time.
2. Air dry away from heat sources – Using a heating source will cause the fabric of your Squishmallow to shrink or become misshapen. Instead, allow them to air dry flat on a towel overnight in a cool, dark place away from any heaters or open flames.
3. Stuff with polyfill – If you’re in a hurry, you can speed up the drying process by filling your Squishmallow with polyfill and tying off the opening securely. This will also help keep its shape while it dries more quickly than if it were left flat and empty.
The drying process may take several hours depending on how wet your Squishmallow had become prior to washing; remember that they will need to be completely air-dry before being used again or placed back in storage. By following these simple steps, you can make sure that your Squishmallows remain their squishy selves for years to come!
Maintaining the Quality of Your Squishmallow
Keeping your squishmallow in good shape is important, as they are made with plush material that can easily become dirty or damaged. Fortunately, there are a few simple cleaning techniques you can use to ensure that your squishmallow stays looking and feeling its best.
Surface Cleaning - For light dust and dirt, you can use a soft lint roller or lint brush to remove it from the surface of your squishmallow. Be sure to check for any loose threads or small pieces of debris before cleaning.
Hand Washing - To clean more stubborn dirt and stains, you can hand-wash your squishmallow with mild detergent (non-bleach) and cold water. After washing, squeeze out the excess water and lay flat to dry. For added protection, you may also use lukewarm water if desired. Do not wring out the fabric or put it in the washing machine - this could cause damage or excessive wear on the fabric.
To keep your squishmallows soft and cuddly, you should never iron them or put them in a dryer. This could cause irreversible damage to the fabric and stuffing!
Conclusion
Washing your Squishmallows is an easy and straightforward process. You don't need to invest in any special cleaners or deal with any complicated steps. All you need is a washing machine, mild detergent, and a dryer. Just follow the cleaning instructions above, and you'll be able to keep your Squishmallows looking and feeling new. Finally, remember to always store your Squishmallows in a cool, dry place to keep them in the best possible shape.
