Introduction
Squishmallows are plush toys that have become increasing popular in recent years. These soft and cuddly stuffed animals come in a variety of shapes and sizes, and are made from a super soft marshmallow-like material that is both huggable and squishable. With their cute designs and vibrant colors, it’s no wonder why people love them so much.
While Squishmallows are great for snuggling, they can get dirty and need to be cleaned. But can you put a Squishmallow in the washer? Before deciding how to clean your Squishmallow, it’s important to understand the risks involved with putting them in the washing machine.
How to Clean a Squishmallow Without a Washing Machine
The safest way to clean your Squishmallow is to avoid using a washing machine altogether. There are a few ways to do this:
Spot-Cleaning with a Cloth
If your Squishmallow has a small stain or spot of dirt, the easiest way to clean it is by spot-cleaning with a damp cloth. Use a mild detergent, such as dish soap or laundry detergent, to make a soapy solution. Dip a clean cloth into the solution and gently dab at the stained area. Then, rinse off the soap with a clean damp cloth and allow the Squishmallow to air dry.
Vacuuming the Squishmallow
If your Squishmallow is covered in dust or pet hair, the best way to clean it is by vacuuming it. Make sure to use a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment and a low setting, as higher settings can damage the fabric. Vacuum the Squishmallow on all sides, paying special attention to any creases or folds.
Hand-Washing with Soap and Water
If your Squishmallow is more heavily soiled, then you may need to hand-wash it. Fill a sink or basin with lukewarm water and add a mild detergent or soap. Submerge the Squishmallow in the soapy water and gently agitate it with your hands. Then, rinse the Squishmallow in clean water and allow it to air dry.
The Best Way to Wash a Squishmallow Without Damaging It
When it comes to cleaning a Squishmallow, it’s important to keep a few things in mind. Here are some tips for washing your Squishmallow without damaging it:
Use Mild Detergent or Soap
When making a soapy solution for spot-cleaning or hand-washing your Squishmallow, it’s important to use a mild detergent or soap. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as these can damage the fabric and cause discoloration. Stick with a mild detergent or soap and you won’t have to worry about damaging your Squishmallow.
Avoid Hot Water
Hot water can also damage the fabric of your Squishmallow. When spot-cleaning or hand-washing your Squishmallow, make sure to use lukewarm water instead of hot water. This will help prevent discoloration and preserve the fabric of the Squishmallow.
Air-Dry Squishmallow
Once you’ve finished spot-cleaning or hand-washing your Squishmallow, it’s important to air-dry it. Avoid using a dryer, as the heat from the dryer can damage the fabric. Instead, lay the Squishmallow out flat on a towel and allow it to air-dry.
Tips and Tricks for Cleaning Your Squishmallow Without a Washer
Here are some additional tips and tricks for cleaning your Squishmallow without using a washing machine:
Test a Small Area First
Before spot-cleaning or hand-washing your Squishmallow, it’s a good idea to test a small area first. This will help ensure that the cleaning method you’re using won’t damage the fabric. Once you’ve tested a small area, you can proceed with cleaning the rest of the Squishmallow.
Use a Soft Bristle Brush
When spot-cleaning or hand-washing your Squishmallow, it’s a good idea to use a soft bristle brush. This will help loosen any dirt or debris that is stuck in the fabric. Just make sure not to scrub too hard, as this could damage the fabric.
Use a Lint Roller
A lint roller can be a great tool for removing pet hair and lint from your Squishmallow. Simply roll the lint roller over the Squishmallow to remove any unwanted fuzz. This is a quick and easy way to keep your Squishmallow looking clean and new.
Is it Safe to Put Your Squishmallow in the Dishwasher?
While some people may be tempted to put their Squishmallow in the dishwasher, this is not recommended. The high temperatures and harsh chemicals in dishwasher detergent can damage the fabric of the Squishmallow and cause discoloration. Additionally, the water pressure in a dishwasher can cause the stuffing inside the Squishmallow to clump up, leading to an uneven shape.
Pros and Cons of Using the Dishwasher
Although it’s not recommended to put your Squishmallow in the dishwasher, there are some pros and cons to consider. On the one hand, using the dishwasher is a quick and easy way to clean your Squishmallow. On the other hand, the high temperatures and harsh chemicals can cause damage to the fabric, leading to discoloration and uneven shapes.
Risks of Using the Dishwasher
The biggest risk of using the dishwasher to clean your Squishmallow is the potential for damage. The high temperatures and harsh chemicals can cause the fabric to become discolored and weaken the stitching, leading to tears and rips. Additionally, the water pressure can cause the stuffing inside the Squishmallow to shift, resulting in an uneven shape.
How to Hand-Wash a Squishmallow
If you decide to hand-wash your Squishmallow, here is a step-by-step guide:
Gather Supplies Needed
Before you begin, gather the supplies needed for hand-washing your Squishmallow. You will need a sink or basin, lukewarm water, mild detergent or soap, and a clean cloth.
Prepare the Squishmallow
Remove any loose items, such as buttons or ribbons, from the Squishmallow before submerging it in the water. This will help prevent the items from becoming damaged.
Rinse the Squishmallow
Submerge the Squishmallow in the lukewarm water and gently agitate it with your hands. Then, rinse the Squishmallow in clean water.
Clean the Squishmallow
Add a mild detergent or soap to the water and gently agitate the Squishmallow with your hands. Allow the Squishmallow to soak for a few minutes before rinsing it in clean water.
Dry the Squishmallow
Once you’ve finished hand-washing your Squishmallow, it’s important to air-dry it. Lay the Squishmallow out flat on a towel and allow it to air-dry. Avoid using a dryer, as the heat from the dryer can damage the fabric.
What Household Products Can You Use to Clean Your Squishmallow?
If you don’t have access to a mild detergent or soap, there are several household products that you can use to clean your Squishmallow. Here are some of the most common:
Vinegar
White vinegar is a natural disinfectant and deodorizer. To use vinegar to clean your Squishmallow, mix equal parts white vinegar and warm water and use a cloth to spot-clean the affected areas. Then, rinse the Squishmallow in clean water and allow it to air-dry.
Baking Soda
Baking soda is a natural deodorizer and mild abrasive. To use baking soda to clean your Squishmallow, make a paste with equal parts baking soda and water. Apply the paste to the affected areas and gently scrub with a soft bristled brush. Then, rinse the Squishmallow in clean water and allow it to air-dry.
Hydrogen Peroxide
Hydrogen peroxide is a natural disinfectant and whitener. To use hydrogen peroxide to clean your Squishmallow, mix equal parts hydrogen peroxide and water and use a cloth to spot-clean the affected areas. Then, rinse the Squishmallow in clean water and allow it to air-dry.
DIY Cleaning Solutions for Your Squishmallow
If you don’t have access to a mild detergent or soap, you can also make your own DIY cleaning solutions for your Squishmallow. Here are two of the most common:
Baking Soda and Vinegar Solution
Mix equal parts baking soda and white vinegar to make a paste. Apply the paste to the affected areas and gently scrub with a soft bristled brush. Then, rinse the Squishmallow in clean water and allow it to air-dry.
Hydrogen Peroxide and Water Solution
Mix equal parts hydrogen peroxide and water. Use a cloth to spot-clean the affected areas. Then, rinse the Squishmallow in clean water and allow it to air-dry.
Conclusion
Cleaning your Squishmallow without a washing machine is possible, but it’s important to take the proper precautions. Avoid using a washing machine or dryer, as the high temperatures and harsh chemicals can damage the fabric. Stick with spot-cleaning, hand-washing, or vacuuming and your Squishmallow will stay clean and cuddly for years to come.
