How to Clean Your Squishy (Without Ruining It)

Squishies are soft, satisfying, and easy to squeeze, which also means they pick up dust, oils, and grime fast. If you're wondering how to clean a squishy without damaging its shape, paint, or scent, you're in the right place.

This guide covers how to wash squishies, how to fix a sticky squishy, and how to keep your collection fresh. The best method depends on what your squishy is made of, so we've broken it down by type.

Why You Should Clean Your Squishy Regularly

Squishies get handled constantly, so they collect:

• Dust and lint
• Skin oils and sweat
• Food residue and dirt from bags and desks
• Pet hair

Regular cleaning keeps your squishy looking new, prevents stickiness, and helps it last longer. Because squishies are squeezed and touched so often, keeping them clean is also a hygiene matter.

Know Your Squishy Material First

Before you wash anything, identify what your squishy is made of.

If you're unsure, check the packaging or product page. Every squishy at Squishy Express lists its material in the description.

What You'll Need

• Mild dish soap or baby shampoo
• Lukewarm water
• A soft cloth or microfiber towel
• A soft toothbrush or cotton swabs
• Cornstarch or baby powder (for stickiness)
• A clean, dry towel

How to Clean a Slow-Rise (PU Foam) Squishy

Foam squishies are the most delicate, so go easy on the water. Our slow rising squishies quality guide explains why gentle care protects the rise.

1. Dust it off. Use a lint roller or soft brush to remove surface dust and hair.
2. Mix a mild soap solution. Add a drop of dish soap to a bowl of lukewarm water.
3. Spot clean with a damp cloth. Dampen (don't drench) the cloth and gently dab the dirty areas.
4. Use a cotton swab for details. Clean around faces, seams, and small painted areas.
5. Rinse with a clean damp cloth. Wipe away soap residue.
6. Blot dry. Press a dry towel against the squishy. Don't wring or twist it.
7. Air dry completely. Leave it in a well-ventilated spot for several hours.

Tip: If you must rinse a foam squishy under water, do it briefly, then gently press out the water and let it dry fully. Foam that stays damp can lose its shape or develop a musty smell.

How to Clean a Mochi, TPR, or Silicone Squishy

These are the easiest to clean.

1. Fill a bowl with lukewarm water and a drop of mild soap.
2. Gently rub the squishy with your fingers or a soft cloth.
3. Use a soft toothbrush for grooves and textured spots.
4. Rinse under lukewarm running water.
5. Pat dry with a towel and let it air dry.

How to Fix a Sticky Squishy

A sticky squishy is one of the most common problems, and it's usually caused by oils and dust building up on the surface.

1. Wash the squishy using the steps above for its material.
2. Let it dry completely.
3. Sprinkle a small amount of cornstarch or baby powder on the surface.
4. Rub it in gently, then brush off the excess.

The powder absorbs leftover oils and restores a smooth, non-tacky feel. Repeat as needed.

How to Clean Painted or Scented Squishies

Painted details and scents fade with too much moisture and rubbing.

• Spot clean only, and skip soaking.
• Use a barely damp cloth and dab rather than scrub.
• Avoid rubbing alcohol, which can strip paint and scent.
• Store scented squishies in a sealed bag afterward to help keep the fragrance.

What NOT to Do When Cleaning Squishies

• Don't use hot water. It can warp or damage the material.
• Don't put squishies in a washing machine or dryer.
• Don't use bleach, acetone, or harsh chemicals.
• Don't leave them in direct sunlight to dry. Heat can cause fading, shrinking, and cracking.
• Don't soak foam squishies. They absorb water and take a long time to dry.
• Don't scrub aggressively. It can tear the skin or remove paint.

How to Keep Your Squishies Clean Longer

• Wash your hands before playing with them.
• Store them in a clean container, zip bag, or display case.
• Keep them away from pets, dust, and food.
• Avoid stacking them with items that transfer color, like newspaper or dyed fabric.
• Do a quick dust-off once a week, and a deeper clean once a month.

Keeping a squishy at your desk? Our guide to squishy fidget toys at work pairs cleaning habits with quiet desk picks.

Final Thoughts

Knowing how to clean your squishy properly keeps it soft, colorful, and fun for much longer. Identify the material, use gentle soap and lukewarm water, dry it fully, and use cornstarch for stickiness.

Ready to add to your collection? Browse the latest arrivals at Squishy Express and find your next favorite squishy.