3 Easy Steps to Wash a Squishmallow * macrodroid.com

A Squishmallow being washed in a washing machine
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Squishmallows are adorable and cuddly, but unfortunately they can also get dirty. If you’re wondering how to wash a Squishmallow, don’t panic! Washing a Squishmallow is easy and can be done in just a few simple steps. Here’s how to do it:

First, you’ll need to gather your supplies. You’ll need a gentle laundry detergent, a soft cloth or sponge, and a large bowl or bucket. Ideally, you should try to use cold water to wash your Squishmallow, but warm water is acceptable if necessary. Once you have your supplies gathered, you can start washing your Squishmallow. Additionally, it is best to not use harsh detergents or bleach, as they can damage the material of your Squishmallow.

To wash your Squishmallow, start by filling a large bowl or bucket with cold water. Add a small amount of gentle laundry detergent to the water and stir until dissolved. Then, gently submerge your Squishmallow in the water and start to gently agitate it. Be careful not to scrub too hard, as this can damage the Squishmallow’s fabric. Rinse the Squishmallow thoroughly with clean water until all of the soap has been removed. Finally, gently squeeze the excess water from the Squishmallow and lay it on a towel to air dry. Your Squishmallow will be clean and refreshed, and ready to be cuddled again!

Gather Necessary Materials

To effectively wash your Squishmallow, you’ll need to gather a few essential items. First and foremost, ensure you have a gentle detergent specifically designed for delicate fabrics. Avoid using harsh detergents or bleach, as these can damage the Squishmallow’s soft material. Additionally, you’ll require a clean washcloth or sponge, a bucket or basin for soaking, and a clean towel for drying.

If your Squishmallow has any particularly stubborn stains or requires deeper cleaning, you may want to consider using a mild stain remover. However, thoroughly test the stain remover on an inconspicuous area of the Squishmallow first to prevent any potential discoloration. Moreover, you may find it beneficial to have a hair dryer or fan on hand to assist with the drying process.

Before proceeding with the washing process, carefully check the Squishmallow’s care label for any specific instructions or warnings. Following these instructions will ensure optimal results and maintain the integrity of your Squishmallow.

Item	Purpose
Gentle detergent	Cleanses the Squishmallow without damaging its fabric
Clean washcloth or sponge	Gently removes dirt and stains
Bucket or basin	Holds water for soaking and rinsing
Clean towel	Absorbs moisture and aids in drying
Mild stain remover (optional)	Treats stubborn stains or deep cleans
Hair dryer or fan (optional)	Assists with drying

Choose the Right Detergent

Selecting the appropriate detergent is crucial for maintaining the integrity of your Squishmallow. Avoid harsh detergents containing bleach or fabric softeners, as these can damage the plush fabric. Instead, opt for mild, non-abrasive detergents formulated for delicate fabrics.

Recommended Detergents:

Type	Brand	Features
Liquid	Seventh Generation	Plant-based, hypoallergenic, and gentle on fabrics
Powder	Tide Free & Gentle	Specifically designed for sensitive skin and delicate garments
Foaming	Woolite Darks	Protects dark fabrics from fading and provides a light touch for plush toys

Tips:

Always follow the detergent manufacturer’s instructions for dosage.
Consider using a mild stain remover for any specific stains before washing.
If you have concerns about the detergent’s suitability, test it on a small, inconspicuous area of the Squishmallow first.

Dry the Squishmallow Thoroughly

Once you have washed and rinsed your Squishmallow, it is important to dry it thoroughly to prevent mold or mildew from growing. Here are some tips for drying your Squishmallow:

Air Drying

The best way to dry your Squishmallow is to air dry it. To do this, place the Squishmallow on a clean towel in a well-ventilated area. Avoid placing the Squishmallow in direct sunlight, as this can damage the fabric.

Towel Drying

If you need to dry your Squishmallow quickly, you can use a towel to absorb some of the moisture. To do this, wrap the Squishmallow in a clean towel and gently squeeze out any excess water. Do not wring the Squishmallow, as this can damage the fabric.

Hair Dryer Drying

If you are in a hurry, you can use a hair dryer to dry your Squishmallow. To do this, set the hair dryer on a low heat setting and hold it about 6 inches away from the Squishmallow. Move the hair dryer around constantly to avoid damaging the fabric.

Fan Drying

You can also use a fan to dry your Squishmallow. To do this, place the Squishmallow in front of a fan and turn the fan on low. Allow the Squishmallow to dry for several hours.

Drying Time

The drying time for a Squishmallow will vary depending on the size and thickness of the Squishmallow. Small Squishmallows may dry in a few hours, while larger Squishmallows may take several days to dry.

Size	Drying Time
Small Squishmallow (8 inches or less)	2-4 hours
Medium Squishmallow (9-12 inches)	4-8 hours
Large Squishmallow (13 inches or more)	8-12 hours or more

Fluff and Reshape the Squishmallow

Once the Squishmallow is dry, it’s time to fluff and reshape it to restore its original form. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Shake and Fluff

Shake the Squishmallow vigorously to distribute the stuffing evenly. Use your hands to gently fluff and shape the stuffing, making sure any lumps or creases are smoothed out.

2. Reshape with Hands

Use your hands to gently reshape the Squishmallow into its original form. Pay attention to the contours and details of the design, making sure the stuffing is distributed evenly throughout.

3. Plump with Pillow

If needed, place the Squishmallow inside a pillowcase or a spare pillow. This will help to plump it up and restore its shape. Leave it for a few hours or overnight to allow the stuffing to settle.

4. Blow Dry

Optional: If you want to speed up the drying process, use a blow dryer on a low heat setting. Hold the dryer about 6 inches away from the Squishmallow and gently blow air into the fabric. Be careful not to overheat it.

5. Brush or Groom

Once the Squishmallow is completely dry, you can brush or groom it with a soft brush or comb. This will remove any loose fibers or debris and give it a fresh and clean look.

Store the Squishmallow Properly

Once your Squishmallow is clean and dry, it’s important to store it properly to prevent damage and keep it looking its best.

Here are some tips for storing Squishmallows:

Use a mesh or fabric bag instead of a plastic bag or container. This will allow the Squishmallow to breathe and prevent it from molding.
Store Squishmallows in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
Do not store Squishmallows in a vacuum-sealed bag or container. This can damage the Squishmallow’s stuffing and cause it to lose its shape.
If you must store Squishmallows in a plastic bag or container, make sure to poke a few holes in the bag or container to allow for ventilation.
Store Squishmallows upright instead of laying them down flat. This will help to prevent them from losing their shape.
Do not store Squishmallows on top of each other. This can put pressure on the Squishmallows and cause them to deform.
If you have a large collection of Squishmallows, consider using a storage solution like a shelf, bookcase, or storage ottoman. This will help to keep your collection organized and protected.

Storage Option	Pros	Cons
Mesh or fabric bag	Allows Squishmallow to breathe, prevents molding	Not as protective as other options
Plastic bag or container with holes	Protects Squishmallow from dust and dirt, allows for ventilation	Can damage Squishmallow if holes are not poked
Vacuum-sealed bag or container	Protects Squishmallow from dust and dirt, saves space	Can damage Squishmallow’s stuffing and cause it to lose its shape
Shelf or bookcase	Keeps collection organized and protected, allows for easy access	Can take up a lot of space
Storage ottoman	Keeps collection organized and protected, provides extra seating	Can be expensive, may not be able to hold a large collection

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Ink or Marker Stains

Dab affected area with rubbing alcohol using a cotton swab. Do not oversaturate. Allow to dry.

Difficult-to-Remove Dirt

Soak Squishmallow in a mixture of 1 cup water and 1 tablespoon vinegar for 30 minutes. Wash as usual.

Color Bleeding

Rinse Squishmallow thoroughly with cold water until water runs clear. Wash with like colors.

Fading or Discoloration

Avoid using harsh detergents or bleach. Wash in cold water and air dry to minimize fading.

Shrinkage or Loss of Shape

Ensure water temperature is no higher than 30°C (86°F). Avoid machine drying or using high heat settings.

Pilling

Use a fabric shaver or sweater stone to gently remove pills. Do not over-shave.

Matting or Tangling

Detangle hair by hand or using a wide-toothed comb. Avoid brushing against the stuffing.

Tips for Washing Multiple Squishmallows

When washing multiple Squishmallows, it’s best to follow these additional steps for optimal results:

Separate by Size and Color: Sort Squishmallows by size and color to prevent larger ones from crushing smaller ones or color bleeding.
Use Laundry Bags: Place Squishmallows in separate laundry bags or pillowcases to prevent them from tangling or getting damaged by other items in the wash.
Gentle Cycle Only: Always use the gentle cycle on your washing machine to avoid damaging the delicate fabric of Squishmallows.
Wash in Cold Water: Wash Squishmallows in cold water to prevent fading or shrinkage.
Use Mild Detergent: Opt for a mild laundry detergent that is safe for delicate fabrics.
Skip the Bleach: Never use bleach on Squishmallows, as it can damage the fabric and discolor them.
Avoid Fabric Softener: Fabric softener can leave a residue on Squishmallows, making them feel stiff or greasy.
Dry on Low Heat: If using a dryer, set it on low heat to gently remove excess moisture.
Air Dry Preferred: Air drying is the safest method to dry Squishmallows. Hang them upside down or lay them flat to prevent stretching or deforming.

Safety Precautions

1. Machine Washing:

While machine washing is generally safe for most Squishmallows, it’s crucial to check the care instructions on the label for specific guidelines. Ensure your washer is set to a delicate or gentle cycle with cold water and a mild detergent. Avoid using bleach or fabric softeners, as they can damage the fabric.

2. Hand Washing:

For delicate or heavily soiled Squishmallows, hand washing is recommended. Fill a basin or sink with cold water and gently wash the toy using a mild detergent. Rinse thoroughly and squeeze out excess water without wringing or twisting.

3. Avoid Heat:

Never put your Squishmallow in the dryer or expose it to direct sunlight. Heat can damage the fabric and cause fading or deformation.

4. Air Drying:

After washing, place your Squishmallow on a towel or drying rack and let it air dry completely. Avoid hanging it as it can stretch or deform the fabric.

5. Spot Cleaning:

For minor stains or spills, use a damp cloth or sponge with a mild detergent to gently clean the affected area. Avoid rubbing or applying too much pressure.

6. Surface Brushing:

To remove dust or loose hair, use a soft-bristled brush to gently brush the surface of your Squishmallow. Avoid using harsh brushes or excessive force.

7. Deodorizing:

If your Squishmallow has developed an odor, sprinkle it lightly with baking soda and let it sit for several hours. Vacuum or brush off the baking soda to remove any residual odor.

8. Storage:

Store your Squishmallows in a clean and dry place away from direct sunlight or heat sources. Avoid storing them in plastic bags or containers that can trap moisture and promote mold growth.

9. Periodic Cleaning:

To maintain the cleanliness of your Squishmallows, it’s recommended to wash or spot clean them regularly. Frequency will depend on the level of use and exposure to dirt and dust.

10. Additional Tips:

Tips	Benefits
Test cleaning method on a small area before applying to the entire toy.	Ensures compatibility and prevents damage.
Use a mesh laundry bag to protect Squishmallows from snagging or tearing during machine washing.	Maintains shape and integrity.
If using a dryer, tumble dry on low heat and remove promptly to prevent shrinking.	Prevents deformation while minimizing heat exposure.
Consider using a fabric softener during machine washing to maintain softness and reduce static.	Enhances comfort and reduces cling.
Always check care instructions on the Squishmallow label for specific washing guidelines.	Ensures optimal care and longevity.

How To Wash A Squishmallow

Squishmallows are a popular type of stuffed animal that is made of a soft, squishy material. They are often used as pillows or as a way to relieve stress. However, like any other stuffed animal, Squishmallows can get dirty over time.

If your Squishmallow is starting to look a little worse for wear, you may be wondering how to wash it. The good news is that Squishmallows are machine-washable. However, there are a few things you need to keep in mind when washing a Squishmallow.

3 Easy Steps to Wash a Squishmallow