Reviving Deflated Squishmallow (Comprehensive Guide)

Squishmallows, those adorable and huggable plush toys that have captured the hearts of people of all ages, sometimes need a little extra care to keep them in their best shape.

If you’ve noticed your Squishmallow looking a bit deflated and in need of some TLC, fret not! As you are not alone.

After owning 15 of these cute huggable plush toys I can tell you confidently that fluffing them up and reviving them is not as daunting as it sounds.

In this guide, we’ll explore various methods to revive your beloved Squishmallow and restore it to its original squishy glory.

Whether you’re a Squishmallow collector or just someone who cherishes these cuddly companions, follow these steps to bring your Squishmallow back to life.

Table of Contents

Why does squishmallow deflate? (Understanding deflation)

Before we deep dive into the restoration process, it’s important to understand why Squishmallows deflate in the first place.

These delightful plush toys are filled with microbeads or polyester stuffing, which can lose their fluffiness over time due to factors such as prolonged use, exposure to moisture, and even changes in temperature.

When a Squishmallow becomes deflated, it might lose its original shape and softness, making it less enjoyable to cuddle.

Unwrapping and Initial Steps

Your journey to reviving your deflated Squishmallow begins right from the moment you unwrap it.

Carefully remove the plastic vacuum-sealed packaging that has been keeping your Squishmallow snug during its journey to your doorstep.

Now that it’s free from its packaging, let it breathe and relax.

Step 1: Give Them Time

After freeing your Squishmallow from its packaging, allow it to sit out in a well-ventilated area for a few hours.

This step is like giving your Squishmallow a chance to stretch and reacquaint itself with the world outside the packaging.

Sometimes, all it takes is a bit of time for the stuffing to settle into its intended shape.

Step 2: Hug, Fluff, and Rearrange

Once your Squishmallow has had a chance to breathe, it’s time to give it some love.

Gently hug and squeeze it to encourage the stuffing to spread out evenly.

Give it a few loving squeezes to encourage its softness to return.

Feel free to rearrange the stuffing, gently massaging it with your hands to help it regain its original form. It’s like giving your Squishmallow a spa day!

The Dryer Method

One quirky and effective method to revive your deflated Squishmallow involves a tennis ball and your trusty dryer. Here’s how to do it:

Step 1: Prep for the Dryer

Place your deflated Squishmallow in the dryer.
Choose the “air tumble” or “no heat” setting on the dryer.
We want to avoid applying heat to your Squishmallow as it can potentially damage it.
Add a clean tennis ball to the dryer. The tennis ball will help agitate the Squishmallow while it’s tumbling, aiding in the fluffing process.

Step 2: The Tumbling Magic

Let your Squishmallow and the tennis ball tumble together in the dryer for a cycle.

The gentle movement of the tennis ball will help to evenly distribute the stuffing, while the tumbling action will aid in re-fluffing the plush.

Once the cycle is complete, take out your Squishmallow and give it a little hug. You’ll likely notice a difference in its squishiness and shape.

The Sun-Kissed Revival

Nature has its own way of helping us out, even when it comes to reviving a deflated Squishmallow. Here’s a method that lets the sun work its magic:

Step 1: Clean and Fluff

Begin by gently cleaning your Squishmallow to remove any dust or debris that may have accumulated on its surface.

Give the plush toy a good squeeze to fluff it up, or gently brush its surface with a soft-bristled brush.

This will help to separate the stuffing and encourage it to expand.

Step 2: Sunlight Therapy

Find a sunny spot in your home, like a windowsill or a balcony, where your Squishmallow can bask in the sunlight.

The heat from the sun will help the plush toy to regain its intended shape and fluffiness.

Just like how we feel better after a day in the sun, your Squishmallow will also enjoy this natural revival process.

Also Read: How to wash Squishmallows (Step-by-Step)

Advance Method to make the squishmallow soft again

Tools You’ll Need To Revive

Reviving a deflated Squishmallow requires a few essential tools that can be easily found at home or purchased online. Here’s what you’ll need:

Sewing Kit: A basic sewing kit with needles and threads in various colors will be useful for repairing any tears or openings in the Squishmallow.

Polyester Fiber: This fluffy material will help you refill your Squishmallow and restore its plumpness.

Funnel or Scoop: A funnel or scoop will make it easier to transfer the polyester fiber into the Squishmallow without making a mess.

Scissors: To cut the thread and trim the excess cloth, you will need scissors.

Patience: Reviving a Squishmallow requires a bit of patience, so take your time and enjoy the restoration process.

Step-by-Step Restoration Guide

Step 1: Assess the Damage

Carefully examine your deflated Squishmallow to identify any tears, holes, or areas that need repair.

This is crucial to prevent the stuffing from escaping once you start the restoration process.

Step 2: Gather Your Tools

Collect all the necessary tools mentioned earlier, ensuring you have everything within reach to make the process smooth and efficient.

Step 3: Open the Squishmallow

Using your sewing kit, carefully open the Squishmallow along the existing seams.

Be careful not to harm the cloth even further by rushing.

Step 4: Remove Old Stuffing

Gently remove any remaining stuffing from the Squishmallow.

You can save this stuffing to use as a reference when adding the new stuffing.

Step 5: Refill with Polyester Fiber

Using a funnel or scoop, fill the Squishmallow with the new polyester fiber.

Start with small amounts and gradually add more until your Squishmallow reaches the desired level of squishiness.

Step 6: Stitch It Up

Once you’re satisfied with the level of stuffing, carefully stitch up the Squishmallow along the original seams.

Make sure your stitches are tight and secure to prevent any future deflation.

Step 7: Final Touches

Trim any excess thread and give your Squishmallow a gentle fluff to ensure an even distribution of stuffing.

Admire your handiwork and feel the satisfaction of reviving your beloved plush companion.

Maintenance Tips

To prolong the life of your newly revived Squishmallow, consider these maintenance tips:

Avoid Overstuffing: While you might be tempted to add extra stuffing for maximum squishiness, overstuffing can lead to stress on the seams and cause tears over time.
Keep It Clean and Dry: Regularly spot clean your Squishmallow with a damp cloth, and ensure it’s completely dry before storage to prevent mold and mildew.
Rotate and Hug: Give different parts of your Squishmallow equal love by rotating and hugging different areas. This prevents uneven wear and keeps your Squishmallow in great shape.
Avoid Direct Sunlight: Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight can fade the colors of your Squishmallow and weaken the fabric.
Store Properly: When not in use, store your Squishmallow in a cool, dry place away from humidity and potential sources of damage.

Wrapping Up

Your Squishmallow is more than just a plush toy – it’s a cuddly friend that deserves all the care and attention you can give.

With these methods, you can easily revive a deflated Squishmallow and have it back to its squishy, huggable form in no time.

Remember to be patient and gentle throughout the process, as your Squishmallow will surely appreciate the extra love and care.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does water ruin Squishmallows?

Water can potentially harm Squishmallows. While they are designed to be cuddly and squishy, excessive exposure to water may damage the fabric or affect the stuffing inside. It’s best to keep your Squishmallows dry to ensure their longevity and softness.

Do Squishmallows lose shape?

Yes, over time and with extended use, Squishmallows can lose their original shape and become somewhat deflated. However, there are methods like hugging, fluffing, and even using a dryer on a no-heat setting with a tennis ball that can help restore their intended shape.

What is Squishmallow stuffing made of?

Squishmallow stuffing is generally made from a blend of high quality polyester fibers and ultra-soft spandex. These fibers are chosen for their softness, resilience, and ability to maintain a plush and squishy texture that Squishmallows are known for.

Can you refill a Squishmallow?

Refilling a Squishmallow can be challenging, as the manufacturing process involves intricately sewing the plush together with the stuffing inside. Attempting to refill a Squishmallow might disrupt its original design and affect its overall quality. It’s recommended to focus on other methods such as hugging and drying to restore its shape rather than trying to refill it.

Is it okay to dry Squishmallows?

Yes, it is generally okay to dry Squishmallows, but caution is needed. If you choose to use a dryer, make sure to set it on a no-heat or air tumble setting to prevent damage to the fabric and stuffing. Adding a clean tennis ball to the dryer can help fluff up the Squishmallow while it tumbles gently. This method can aid in reviving a deflated Squishmallow.

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