Ever wonder why Squishmallows have become such a global phenomenon? These ultra-soft, marshmallow-like plush toys have captured hearts worldwide, but what are Squishmallows made of exactly?
Understanding their unique material composition helps explain their signature squishiness and comfort that makes these stuffed animals so beloved.
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What’s In A Squishmallow?
Squishmallows are crafted from ultra-soft spandex exterior fabric filled with specialized polyester fibers. This premium material combination creates their distinctive, marshmallow-like texture, which is perfect for cuddling, collecting, and therapeutic comfort.
The carefully selected materials make Squishmallows ideal multi-purpose companions — whether you need stress relief, a travel buddy, or a bedtime comfort object. Many fans report that these plush toys help reduce anxiety and provide soothing sensory input, making them incredibly helpful for people of all ages.
Read: Where to Buy Squishmallows
Materials Used In Making Squishmallows
Polyester Fibers Filling
Polyester fibers serve as the primary stuffing material in every Squishmallow. This synthetic filling offers several key advantages:
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Stain and mildew resistance — maintains freshness over time
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Shape retention — bounces back after compression
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Quick-drying properties — easy to clean and maintain
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Hypoallergenic nature — safe for sensitive skin
Unlike traditional stuffing that can clump or flatten, Squishmallows use a proprietary cluster fiberfill designed to rebound to its original form. This specialized blend provides the perfect balance of softness and structural integrity, making these stuffed toys so distinctive.
Ultra Soft Spandex Exterior
The outer shell features ultra-soft spandex (approximately 85% polyurethane), chosen for its exceptional properties:
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Superior elasticity — stretches without tearing or losing shape
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Smooth texture — creates the signature "marshmallow feel"
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Vibrant color retention — maintains appearance through repeated washing
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Lightweight durability — withstands regular use and cuddling
This spandex is laminated to a polyester base, enhancing durability and preventing pilling. The combination ensures your Squishmallow stays super soft and colorful for years. But how do you ship Squishmallows?
Safety Standards and Manufacturing Process
Chemical Safety Compliance
All Squishmallows meet stringent safety requirements:
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Prop 65 compliant — free from harmful chemicals and toxins
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ASTM F963-17 certified — meets Consumer Product Safety standards
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Third-party tested — verified free of lead, phthalates, and flame retardants
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Hypoallergenic materials — suitable for kids and adults with sensitivities
Physical Safety Features
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Reinforced seams prevent fiber leakage and choking hazards
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Embroidered facial features eliminate the risk of small parts
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Age-appropriate sizing from 3.5 inches to 24 inches
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Flame retardant properties without additional chemical treatments
Are These Stuffed Toys Made In China?
Yes, Squishmallows are manufactured in China. Low labor costs in China contribute to their affordable price [2].
Kelly Toys Holdings oversees the entire production process, which includes:
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Polyester granule extrusion into continuous filaments using either a batch process or a continuous polymerization method
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Spandex knitting and dyeing for vibrant exterior fabrics
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Automated filling ensuring consistent density
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Quality testing for seam strength and color consistency
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Safety certification with Children's Product Certificates
Each authentic Squishmallow produced features three identification tags: a bio tag with character information, a woven Kelly Toys label, and retailer-specific tags.
Are All Squishmallows Made Using The Same Materials?
All Squishmallows are made with identical core materials — polyester fiber stuffing and ultra-soft spandex exterior. This consistency ensures:
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Uniform texture across all characters and sizes
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Predictable quality for collectors and gift-givers
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Reliable comfort for therapeutic and sensory use
While designs may vary slightly for special editions, such as limited-edition Squishmallow releases or licensed characters, the fundamental material composition remains constant throughout the entire Squishmallow line. This approach makes Squishmallows a brand you can collect with confidence.
But what was the first Squishmallow?
Proper Care Instructions for Your Stuffed Toy
Follow these steps to maintain your Squishmallow's quality:
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Spot cleaning: Use a damp cloth for small stains
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Gentle machine washing: Place in mesh bag, cold water, mild detergent
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Air drying: Allow complete air drying to prevent shrinking
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Fluffing: Gently massage to redistribute filling evenly
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Storage: Keep in clean, dry areas away from direct sunlight
Important: Avoid high-heat drying, as it can damage the spandex fibers and polyester filling used in making Squishmallows.
Can You Make A Homemade Squishmallow?
Creating homemade versions is possible using similar materials:
Required materials:
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Ultra-soft spandex or minky fabric
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Cluster polyester fiberfill
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Embroidery thread for facial features
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Sewing machine or needle
Pro tip: While DIY versions can be fun projects, they typically won't match the precise density and texture of authentic Squishmallows due to proprietary manufacturing techniques. The process created by Kelly Toys involves specialized equipment and other materials not available to home crafters.
Environmental Considerations
Sustainability aspects to consider:
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Virgin materials: Made from new polyester and spandex (not recycled content)
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Durability: Long-lasting construction reduces replacement needs
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End-of-life: Currently, there are limited recycling options for mixed-material construction
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Care longevity: Proper maintenance extends usable life significantly
FAQs
Do Squishmallows have chemicals?
No, Squishmallows do not have toxic chemicals. They meet the toy regulatory and safety standards, so they are safe for kids of all ages and the young at heart.
Squishmallows are compliant with Prop 65 and are also flame-retardant.
Manufacturers certify that they don't incorporate chemicals into the product - its internal and external layers.
What makes Squishmallows uniquely squishy?
The combination of specialized polyester cluster fiberfill and ultra-soft spandex exterior creates their distinctive marshmallow-like texture and exceptional softness.
Are all Squishmallows made with the same materials?
Yes, all authentic Squishmallows use the same core materials — polyester fibers for filling and spandex for the exterior — ensuring consistent quality across all characters and sizes.
How do I verify authentic Squishmallow materials?
Authentic Squishmallows feature three official tags, meet safety certifications, and have the characteristic ultra-soft spandex feel. Learn more about how to register Squishmallows.
Squish' Em, Make 'Em!
Squishmallows represent the ideal balance of comfort, safety, and quality craftsmanship. Understanding what Squishmallows are made of — premium polyester filling and ultra-soft spandex — explains why they've become beloved companions for stress relief, collecting, and comfort around the world.
Their carefully engineered materials create the perfect therapeutic tool while maintaining the durability needed for everyday use. Whether you're building a collection or seeking the ultimate comfort companion, Squishmallows deliver consistent quality through their thoughtfully selected materials. In high demand and often sold in retail stores worldwide, these cuddly companions have created an impressive market presence.
With proper care, these remarkable plushies can provide years of comfort and joy, making them worthwhile investments for fans of all ages who appreciate their cute appeal and squishy texture.
References:
- https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/chemistry/polyester-fiber
- https://www.investopedia.com/articles/investing/102214/why-china-worlds-factory.asp
