Your kid’s favorite Squishmallow has seen better days. Maybe it survived a juice box explosion, got dragged through the sandbox, or simply accumulated months of bedtime snuggles. Now you’re staring at this beloved marshmallow-soft companion wondering, “Can you wash squishmallows without turning them into a lumpy disaster?”
The short answer? Absolutely! But here’s where it gets interesting—washing these squishy treasures isn’t quite the same as tossing regular laundry into the machine. These polyester-filled darlings need some special TLC to keep their signature squishiness intact.
What Makes Squishmallows Special (And Tricky to Clean)
Before we jump into the washing process, let’s talk about what you’re actually dealing with. Squishmallows are filled with polyester fiber. This filling makes them soft, huggable, and squishy. The polyester fiberfill is hypoallergenic—which is fantastic for kids with allergies, but also means the filling can clump if you’re not careful during washing.
Think of it like washing a down pillow. The outer fabric is sturdy enough, but that fluffy interior? It needs gentle handling to maintain its shape and texture. One wrong move, and you might end up with a sad, flat version of what used to be your child’s favorite cuddle buddy.
The Official Word vs. Real Life
Here’s where things get a bit confusing. According to the official Squishmallows website, the toys should only be spot cleaned with a damp cloth on the affected area. If there is a stain, then it is officially recommended to use a stain remover pen or wet wipe to help remove the stain.
But let’s be real—spot cleaning only goes so far when your toddler has been using their Squishmallow as a napkin for the past three months. Sometimes you need the heavy artillery, and that’s where machine washing comes in.
When Machine Washing Makes Sense
How to wash squishmallows in the machine becomes necessary when:
- Spot cleaning just isn’t cutting it anymore
- There are mysterious sticky patches everywhere
- The smell has evolved beyond what air fresheners can handle
- Your child’s bedtime routine includes saying goodnight to what’s essentially a germ farm
The Complete Machine Washing Method
Pre-Wash Preparation
Start by giving your Squishmallow a once-over. Dried dirt may need some scraping first, so use a blunt object with a good edge for this. A spoon works perfectly for this—just be gentle. You’re not trying to perform surgery here.
Pre-wash checklist:
- Remove surface dirt and debris
- Check for any tears or loose threads
- Consider pre-treating stubborn stains
- Take a “before” photo if you’re sentimental about documentation
The Washing Process Step-by-Step
Step 1: Choose Your Washing Companions
Toss in other soft material such as blankets, jumpers, duvets, or towels to provide a cushion-like surrounding. This prevents your Squishmallow from getting knocked around too much during the wash cycle.
Step 2: Set Up the Machine
Fill the machine with cool water because hot water can damage the plush toy. Set your washing machine on a gentle cycle with cold water. This will help preserve the fabric and colors of your Squishmallow. Avoid using hot water, as it can cause the material to lose its softness.
Step 3: Add the Right Detergent
Wash with cool water on a gentle cycle with gentle detergent. Do not use any bleach or fabric softener. Fabric softener might seem like a good idea, but it can actually coat the fibers and make your Squishmallow feel different.
Step 4: Extra Protection (Optional but Recommended)
Wash a Squishmallow by placing it in a pillowcase for extra protection. This creates an additional barrier against the agitator and helps maintain the toy’s shape.
Machine Settings Quick Reference
| Setting | Recommendation | Why It Matters |
| Water Temperature | Cold only | Hot water damages polyester filling |
| Cycle Type | Gentle/Delicate | Prevents excessive agitation |
| Spin Speed | Low | Reduces stress on seams |
| Load Size | Small to medium | Gives items room to move gently |
The Drying Dilemma: Air vs. Machine
Here’s where opinions split, and honestly, both methods can work if done correctly.
Air Drying (The Safer Route)
Opt for an air-dry method, placing it in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight. Remember, patience is key when it comes to maintaining your Squishmallow’s plump, cuddly shape and ultimate softness.
Air drying benefits:
- No risk of heat damage
- Maintains original texture
- Prevents shrinkage
- Gives you control over the reshaping process
Lay it flat on a clean, dry towel and reshape it as it dries. This is your chance to play toy surgeon—gently massage and redistribute the filling while it’s damp.
Machine Drying (If You Must)
Some sources suggest tumble dry on low heat, but proceed with extreme caution. Do not apply any heat from any source like a laundry dryer or a hair dryer — it could melt the material.
If you absolutely must use the dryer:
- Use the lowest heat setting or air fluff
- Check every 15 minutes
- Remove while still slightly damp
- Finish air drying to be safe
Spot Cleaning for Quick Fixes
Not every mess requires a full wash. Knowing how to wash a squishmallow sometimes just means targeted spot cleaning:
Daily Maintenance Spot Cleaning
- Blot, don’t rub – Rubbing pushes stains deeper into the fabric
- Use cool water – Hot water can set stains permanently
- Work from outside in – This prevents the stain from spreading
- Pat dry thoroughly – Moisture left behind can cause mold
Stain-Specific Solutions
For tougher stains or set-in stains, use can use a spot-treatment— we prefer OxiClean Laundry Stain Remover— just let it sit for a few minutes, then wash away any residue.
Common stain solutions:
- Food stains: Cold water and gentle dish soap
- Marker/crayon: Rubbing alcohol on a cotton swab
- Mud: Let it dry completely, then brush off before spot cleaning
- Mystery stains: Enzyme-based stain removers work wonders
Special Considerations for Different Squishmallow Types
Large Squishmallows (16″ and up)
These gentle giants need extra attention. The larger size means:
- More stuffing that can shift during washing
- Longer drying times
- Higher risk of developing mold if not dried thoroughly
- May require commercial washing machines for proper cleaning
Squishmallow Accessories
Most Squishmallows pet beds are machine washable. Use a gentle cycle with cold water and mild detergent. Air dry or tumble dry on low heat, if recommended.
Pillowcases, blankets, and other Squishmallow-branded items often have different care requirements than the plush toys themselves—always check those tags!
Signs Your Washing Worked (Or Didn’t)
Success Indicators:
- Maintains original squishiness
- Colors stay vibrant
- No lumpy or flat spots
- Fresh, clean smell without mustiness
Red Flags:
- Filling has clumped together
- Colors have faded or bled
- Seams are stressed or split
- Persistent musty odor (indicates incomplete drying)
When to Call in Professional Cleaning Service
Sometimes DIY isn’t the answer. Consider professional cleaning service when:
- The Squishmallow is a limited edition or particularly valuable
- Multiple attempts at home cleaning have failed
- There’s suspected mold or mildew
- The toy has sentimental value that outweighs the cost of professional care
Professional cleaners have specialized equipment and products designed for delicate items. They can often salvage toys that seem beyond hope—though it’ll cost more than a DIY approach.
Preventing Future Washing Drama
The best wash is the one you never have to do. Smart Squishmallow ownership means:
Creating Protective Barriers
- Use pillowcases during sleep (easier to wash than the whole toy)
- Designate “eating” vs. “bedtime” Squishmallows
- Keep spare covers for messy activities
Regular Maintenance
- Weekly spot checks for stains
- Monthly freshening in direct sunlight
- Quarterly deep cleaning sessions
- Annual professional cleaning for heavily-used favorites
The Reality Check: When to Say Goodbye
Sometimes, despite your best efforts, a Squishmallow reaches the end of its washable life. Signs it might be time to retire your squishy friend:
- Repeated washing attempts haven’t solved odor issues
- The filling has become permanently lumpy
- Colors have faded beyond recognition
- Seams are failing despite gentle care
Remember, these toys are meant to be loved—and sometimes love means knowing when to let go and start fresh with a new cuddle companion.
Can you wash a squishmallow successfully? Absolutely. With the right technique, patience, and a little TLC, your child’s favorite squishy friend can stay clean, soft, and ready for countless more bedtime adventures. The key is treating these special toys with the care they deserve—gentle handling, cool water, and plenty of time to dry properly.
Whether you tackle the job yourself or bring in professional help, keeping Squishmallows clean doesn’t have to be a battle. Just remember: when in doubt, go gentler rather than more aggressive. Your child’s favorite bedtime buddy—and your peace of mind—will thank you for it.
Need help with deep cleaning challenging items around your home? The professionals at Soji understand that some cleaning tasks require special expertise and gentle care—just like washing beloved stuffed animals.