There is a reason Squishmallows have become so popular. They are soft, comforting, adorable, and often become part of your daily life before you even realize it. Maybe yours sits on your bed every night, travels with your child everywhere, or proudly joins a growing collection on the couch. Over time, though, even the fluffiest Squishmallow starts collecting dust, stains, odors, and everyday grime.

That is where many people get nervous. You want your plush toy to look and smell fresh again, but you also do not want to ruin the soft texture or flatten the stuffing. Washing plush toys the wrong way can leave them lumpy, faded, stiff, or permanently damaged.

The good news is that cleaning a Squishmallow safely is much easier than you might think. With the right methods and a little patience, you can restore softness, remove stains, and keep your favorite plush looking almost new again. This guide explains the proper way to clean a Squishmallow plush toy while protecting its shape, fabric, and fluffiness.

Why Proper Cleaning Matters for Squishmallow Plush Toys

Squishmallows may look clean on the outside, but plush fabric naturally traps:

• Dust
• Skin oils
• Food crumbs
• Pet hair
• Odors
• Allergens

Regular cleaning helps maintain softness while creating a fresher and healthier environment, especially if the plush is used daily by children.

Improper cleaning, however, can damage:

• The fabric texture
• The stuffing inside
• The stitching
• The shape of the plush

That is why gentle care matters.

Understanding Squishmallow Materials Before Cleaning

Most Squishmallows are made from soft polyester fabric with plush stuffing designed for maximum softness and stretch.

Because the materials are delicate, harsh cleaning products or high heat can damage them quickly.

Always Check the Care Tag First

Before washing:

• Read the manufacturer instructions
• Check for machine-wash guidance
• Confirm drying recommendations

Some Squishmallows are more delicate depending on size and fabric type.

Essential Supplies for Cleaning a Squishmallow Plush Toy

Using gentle supplies helps protect the fabric while still removing dirt and odors effectively.

Best Cleaning Supplies for Squishmallows

Ingredient/Tool	Purpose	Benefits
Mild Detergent	Gentle cleaning	Protects fabric
Cold Water	Safe washing	Prevents shrinking
Microfiber Cloth	Spot cleaning	Soft on plush
Soft Brush	Removes dirt	Gentle scrubbing
Mesh Laundry Bag	Machine wash protection	Reduces wear
Clean Towels	Moisture absorption	Faster drying

Avoid bleach, strong chemicals, and abrasive scrubbers.

The Proper Way to Spot Clean a Squishmallow Plush Toy

Spot cleaning is often the safest option for minor stains and light dirt.

When Spot Cleaning Works Best

• Small stains
• Surface dirt
• Dust buildup
• Light odors

This method avoids soaking the entire plush unnecessarily.

Step-by-Step Spot Cleaning Method

1. Prepare a Gentle Cleaning Solution

Mix:

• Cold water
• A small amount of mild detergent

Avoid strong soaps or heavily scented cleaners.

2. Dampen a Microfiber Cloth

Lightly dampen the cloth instead of soaking it.

Too much moisture can saturate the stuffing inside.

3. Blot the Dirty Area Carefully

Use gentle motions to clean the stain.

Important Tip

Do not scrub aggressively.

Aggressive scrubbing may:

• Damage fabric fibers
• Spread stains further
• Create rough spots

Patience works better than force.

4. Allow the Squishmallow to Air Dry

Place the plush in a well-ventilated area.

Avoid direct heat sources like:

• Radiators
• Hair dryers
• Strong sunlight

Slow drying helps preserve softness.

How to Machine Wash a Squishmallow Safely

Many Squishmallows can be machine washed, but only with gentle settings.

Safe Machine Washing Instructions

1. Place the Squishmallow Inside a Mesh Laundry Bag

A mesh bag protects the plush from excessive friction during washing.

If you do not have one, a pillowcase tied loosely can help.

2. Use Cold Water Only

Hot water may:

• Damage the fabric
• Weaken stitching
• Affect stuffing texture

Cold water is much safer for plush toys.

3. Select the Delicate Cycle

The gentle cycle reduces stress on the plush.

Avoid:

• Heavy-duty cycles
• High spin speeds

4. Use Mild Detergent

Choose a gentle detergent without harsh additives.

Only a small amount is needed.

5. Never Use Bleach

Bleach can discolor the fabric and weaken fibers.

Even color-safe bleach may be too harsh for delicate plush material.

The Proper Way to Dry a Squishmallow Plush Toy

Drying is one of the most important parts of cleaning.

Improper drying can flatten stuffing or create mildew inside the plush.

Best Ways to Dry a Squishmallow

Air Drying

Air drying is usually the safest method.

Helpful Drying Tips

• Place towels underneath
• Rotate occasionally
• Gently reshape the plush during drying

This helps maintain even fluffiness.

Using a Dryer Carefully

Some Squishmallows may tolerate low dryer heat if allowed by the care label.

Dryer Safety Tips

• Use low heat only
• Add clean towels to reduce impact
• Avoid overheating completely

High heat is one of the fastest ways to ruin plush softness.

How to Remove Odors From a Squishmallow

Even clean-looking plush toys sometimes develop lingering odors.

Baking soda works especially well for natural deodorizing.

Baking Soda Odor Removal Method

Steps

1. Sprinkle baking soda lightly across the plush
2. Let it sit for several hours
3. Brush or vacuum gently afterward

This helps absorb trapped smells naturally.

Natural Odor Removal Ingredients

Ingredient	Purpose	Best Use
Baking Soda	Absorbs odors	General freshness
Cold Air	Reduces musty smells	Air drying
Mild Detergent	Removes residue	Washing

Fresh outdoor air can also help reduce stale odors naturally.

How to Remove Tough Stains From a Squishmallow

Some stains require extra attention.

Removing Food and Drink Stains

Food spills should be treated quickly.

Best Method

• Blot immediately
• Use mild detergent solution
• Clean gently without soaking

Quick action helps prevent permanent staining.

Removing Ink or Marker Stains

Ink can spread easily on plush fabric.

Important Tip

Always test cleaning solutions on a hidden area first.

Avoid oversaturating the stain.

Cleaning Pet Stains and Odors

Pet accidents should be addressed quickly to prevent lingering smells.

Pet Stain Cleaning Steps

1. Absorb excess moisture immediately
2. Spot clean gently
3. Allow full drying afterward

Moisture trapped inside plush stuffing can create mildew if not dried completely.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Cleaning Squishmallows

Some cleaning habits can damage plush toys quickly.

Mistakes to Avoid

• Using hot water
• Applying bleach
• Scrubbing aggressively
• Over-soaking the plush
• Using high dryer heat

Gentle care almost always produces better results.

How Often Should You Clean a Squishmallow Plush Toy?

Cleaning frequency depends on use.

General Cleaning Guidelines

Weekly

• Light dust removal

Monthly

• Spot cleaning

As Needed

• Deep washing for stains or odors

Children’s plush toys may require more frequent cleaning.

Tips for Keeping Squishmallows Clean Longer

Preventive care reduces deep cleaning needs.

Helpful Care Tips

• Wash hands before handling
• Keep food away from plush toys
• Store in clean areas
• Rotate frequently used Squishmallows

Small habits help preserve softness and appearance longer.

FAQ About The Proper Way to Clean a Squishmallow Plush Toy

Can You Put a Squishmallow in the Washing Machine?

Many Squishmallows can be machine washed using cold water and gentle cycles.

What Is the Safest Way to Clean a Squishmallow?

Spot cleaning with mild detergent is usually the safest approach.

Can You Dry a Squishmallow in the Dryer?

Low heat may work if approved by the care tag, but air drying is safest.

How Do You Make a Squishmallow Fluffy Again?

Gentle reshaping during air drying helps restore softness and fluffiness.

How Often Should You Wash a Squishmallow Plush Toy?

It depends on use, but regular spot cleaning and occasional deep cleaning help maintain freshness.

Conclusion

Squishmallows are designed to provide comfort, softness, and joy, so keeping them clean helps preserve everything that makes them special. By using gentle cleaning methods, mild detergents, and careful drying techniques, you can safely remove dirt, stains, and odors without damaging the plush texture or stuffing inside.

Whether you choose quick spot cleaning or a full gentle wash, taking the proper approach helps your Squishmallow stay fluffy, fresh, and soft for years to come. A little regular care goes a long way toward protecting your favorite plush companion and keeping it looking as comforting as the day you brought it home.