Squishies

1. Wipe or rinse out mouth. 
2. Give a serving size of water to drink.
3. Wash any exposed skin using a generous soapy lather and warm water.
4. Call 1-800-222-1222 for additional instructions.

If someone gets squishy contents in the eye, there can be immediate burning and stinging, which requires prompt first aid to avoid eye injury.

1. Start rinsing eye(s) with lukewarm water.
2. Call the Missouri Poison Center at 1-800-222-1222 for further recommendations.

Quick Facts About Squishies

Squishies are everywhere! These trendy toys are designed to be squeezed, squished, and smooshed. They come in an unlimited number of styles, including cubes, animals, and food items such as dumplings or sticks of butter. Certain varieties have been popularized by social media and are considered collectibles. Squishies provide a tactile sensory experience for children and adults and are sometimes used as fidgets to help with calming and focus.

Most squishy toys are safe for children, but there are some risks. Squishies are not suitable for children under 3 years old, and their use by children aged 3-5 should be supervised. These toys are designed to be squeezed by hands, but they can break open if bitten or torn by sharp objects or fingernails. Additionally, do not play with any squishies that are leaking or damaged.

What are squishies made of?

Squishy toy contents vary by manufacturer. The exterior “shell” is often made of rubber or silicone, both of which are pliable, soft, and nontoxic. The inside may contain gels, water beads, glitter, sand, polyurethane foam, or other ingredients. Squishy toy manufacturers are not required to list toy contents; however, to ensure safety, they are subject to regulations that limit the use of potentially hazardous and toxic chemicals.

Squishy ingredients can cause mouth and throat irritation. If swallowed, they may cause minor nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. Eye contact with the ingredients can cause a burning sensation, eye redness, and watery eyes. Some people may have skin sensitivity and develop skin irritation or a rash from contact.

Squishy toys that contain “water beads” (also known as super-absorbent polymer beads) pose a choking hazard. Young children are at an increased risk of choking because of their small body size. Swallowed beads could also pose a risk of getting stuck in the throat, stomach, or intestines.

Keep Small Children Safe

To reduce the risk of harm from squishies, keep them away from young children. Avoid purchasing toys that don’t clearly list a manufacturer or that have missing or incomplete packaging. Never microwave, freeze, or heat squishies. Extreme heat and cold can damage the toy, increasing the risk of breaking or leaking. Microwaving or heating the toys can also cause burns and release harmful fumes.

If you find someone has eaten a small amount of a squishy toy, do not panic. Wipe out the mouth with a soft, wet cloth and give them some water to drink. Call the Missouri Poison Center right away at 1-800-222-1222. The poison center is open all day, every day, for poisoning emergencies and questions.

**Note: Don’t forget, every case is different. To make sure you are getting the best information for your individual situation, click below to call or chat. It is fast, free, and confidential.