Even the best squishies change a little with lots of love. Maybe yours feels tacky, picks up every bit of lint, or doesn't bounce back the way it did on day one. Most of these problems have an easy fix. Here's what to try.
Problem 1: My squishy is sticky
Soft, stretchy squishies (like mochi, silicone and TPR styles) can feel a bit tacky, and the stickiness grows as they collect dust and skin oils.
Try this:
- Give it a gentle wash in lukewarm, soapy water if it's water-safe (see our guide How to Clean a Squishy).
- Let it dry completely.
- Dust it with a tiny pinch of cornstarch, rub it in lightly, then brush off the extra.
Avoid lotions, oils and sprays. They make stickiness worse over time.
Problem 2: My squishy is covered in lint
Lint sticks fastest to slightly tacky surfaces. Roll a piece of tape or a lint roller over it, then follow the sticky-squishy steps above. Storing it in a closed bag keeps it from happening again.
Problem 3: My squishy got flat or squished out of shape
If it was left under something heavy or packed tightly in a bag, it may need time to recover.
- Take it out of its packaging and place it on a flat surface.
- Gently reshape it with your fingers.
- Leave it alone for 24 hours at room temperature.
Many squishies slowly return to shape on their own. Never use heat to speed this up.
Problem 4: My slow-rise squishy isn't slow anymore
Foam squishies can lose some of their slow rise after a lot of squeezing, or after getting wet. Keep foam squishies dry, squeeze them gently rather than crushing them flat, and give them rest days. A foam squishy that got soaked should air-dry fully, which can take a day or more.
Problem 5: My squishy has a small tear
Small tears tend to grow with squeezing. Stop squeezing that spot and keep the squishy for display or gentle play. If a squishy is torn and any filling or small pieces are coming out, keep it away from young children and pets.
How to store squishies the right way
- Keep them out of the sun. UV light and heat can fade colors and change texture.
- Give them space. Don't stack heavy things on top or cram them into a tight box.
- Use clean bags or containers. A zip bag per squishy keeps dust and lint off.
- Room temperature is best. Avoid hot cars, windowsills and freezing garages.
- Keep them separate from markers and pens. Ink can transfer and stain.
When it's time for a new squishy
Squishies are made for play, and no squishy lasts forever. If yours is torn, very discolored or won't hold its shape anymore, it's had a good life. Our drops bring fresh designs every month. Shop the current drop or sign up so you don't miss the November 1 Mystery Drop.