How do you tell if you bought a good squishy?

As someone who has recently fallen down the squishy rabbit hole, I totally get the endless joy that comes from squeezing these delightful stress-relievers. What I've learned is that a good squishy really combines a few key qualities: slow rising, softness, pleasant texture without stickiness, and sometimes that satisfying crinkle sound. When shopping, don't just rely on looks. Feel the squishy in your hands if possible—does it bounce back slowly after squeezing? That's the slow rise everyone loves, giving a buttery, almost meditative feeling. Softness matters too—good squishies indicate quality foam that isn’t too hard or too fragile. Also, watch out for oily residues or sticky surfaces; those can be signs of lower quality or poor materials. Personally, I’ve found that independent Etsy shops often offer the best handmade or unique squishies with that perfect texture. However, some big sellers on Amazon also stock high-quality options with lots of customer reviews to guide you. The smell can be a big factor as well—some squishies have a faint but pleasant scent that enhances the overall sensory experience, while others might have a chemical smell which can be off-putting. A pro tip is to read reviews or join squishy lover communities online to get firsthand recommendations. Over time, you begin to recognize brands or make patterns about what qualities you enjoy most. My favorite squishies are those that offer that premium soft feel but never leave any residue or weird afterfeel on hands. Overall, the hunt for that perfect squishy can be joyful and addictive, but knowing what to look for keeps your collection satisfying and worth every penny.