Squishies are having a moment. Classrooms, desks and TikTok feeds are full of them, and if you've been asked for one as a present, you've probably noticed there are a lot of different kinds. Here's what they all are, who they suit and how to pick one that won't end up under the couch.
What is a squishy?
A squishy is a soft toy designed to be squeezed. Squeeze, let go, repeat. That's it, and that's exactly why people love them. They're made from foam, gel, jelly or plush and come in cute shapes like fruit, animals and characters.
The main types of squishy
Slow rise squishies
The squishy that started it all. Squeeze one flat and it rises back to shape slowly over a few seconds. Collectors judge them on how slow the rise is and how soft they feel. Some are even scented, like our jumbo blueberry and pineapple bear.
Jumbo squishies
Exactly what they sound like. Big, soft and squeezable with both hands, jumbo squishies are the ones that get a proper reaction when they come out of the wrapping paper. Ours range from 14cm right up to a 30cm shark. Shop jumbo squishies.
Stress squishies
Filled with gel or jelly, these feel firmer and squeezier than foam. They're popular with older kids, teens and adults who like something to fidget with while they work, study or sit through a long call. Find a stress squishy.
Make your own
For the kid who wants to know what's inside, squishy maker kits let them build their own creations from scratch. Fair warning, they'll want the refill pack too.
Which squishy for which age?
Under 3s: squishies aren't suitable. Many have small parts, and little ones tend to bite things.
Ages 3 to 7: our squishies are rated 3+. Bigger squishies are easier for small hands to hold and harder to lose, so jumbos are a great first pick.
Ages 8 to 12: this is peak collecting age. Themed squishies and maker kits go down a storm.
Teens and adults: slow rise favourites for the shelf, stress squishies for the desk, and jumbos for the sheer joy of it.
How to pick a squishy as a gift
If you know what they're into, match the design: food lovers get a blueberry or a strawberry, animal fans get a highland cow, a kitty or an axolotl. If you have no idea, a jumbo squishy does the heavy lifting, and a maker kit keeps them busy for a whole afternoon.
How to look after a squishy
- Keep it out of direct sunlight and don't let it overheat.
- Squish and squeeze gently, and don't over stretch it.
- Store it somewhere clean so it doesn't collect fluff.
Ready to squish?
Have a rummage through the full Squishies collection at The Chaos Emporium. Orders in by 12pm go out the same day, and delivery is free Australia wide over $120. We can't promise you'll stop at one.