Should I Cut Open My Squishies

4/16 Edited to

... Read moreOkay, so like many of you, I've ended up with a collection of squishies and sometimes I just think, "IDK what to do with all these!" The ultimate curiosity always comes down to one thing: what’s actually inside these super satisfying toys? I've seen all the videos of people POpping SQUISHIES, and honestly, the urge to find out for myself was too strong to resist. So, I grabbed a squishy and a pair of scissors to undertake my own little experiment! My Squishy Unboxing – The Cut-Open Edition! When I finally made the first snip, it was surprisingly tough! But once I got through the outer layer, the inside of my squishy revealed... well, mostly foam. But it wasn’t just any foam; it was super dense, slow-rising polyurethane foam, which is what gives most squishies their characteristic texture. The smell was also quite noticeable – that sweet, artificial scent that many squishies have. It wasn't exactly what I expected, but it was definitely interesting to see the internal structure that makes them so squishy and fun to squeeze. Are Squishies Toxic? What Chemicals Are Lurking Inside? This was one of my biggest questions, especially with queries like "are mochi squishies toxic" popping up. From what I’ve learned, most reputable squishy brands use non-toxic, child-safe materials like polyurethane foam, TPR (thermoplastic rubber, often used for mochi squishies), or silicone. However, issues can arise with cheaper, unregulated squishies that might contain harmful chemicals like phthalates or high levels of volatile organic compounds (VOCs). These could potentially cause skin irritation or, if ingested, more serious health problems. My personal advice? Always buy from trusted brands if you're concerned. While cutting them open for fun is one thing, definitely don't let anyone, especially small children or pets, put pieces in their mouths. And if you have sensitive skin, be mindful of direct, prolonged contact, especially with strongly scented ones, as fragrances can sometimes trigger allergic reactions. To Bag or Not to Bag? The Squishy Storage Dilemma Another thing I've often wondered about, similar to the "are taba squishies meant to stay in the bag" question, is how best to store them. Many squishies come in sealed packaging for a reason! It helps protect them from dust and dirt, preserves their scent, and prevents them from drying out or yellowing due to exposure to air and sunlight. While it's fine to take them out to play, if you want your squishies to last, storing them in an airtight container or their original packaging can really help. Leaving them out can make them sticky over time or collect lint and pet hair, which nobody wants! My Final Thoughts: To Cut or Not to Cut? So, was cutting open my squishy worth it? For curiosity's sake, absolutely! It was cool to see what makes them tick. But for long-term fun, I'd say enjoy them as intended. If you’re looking for new ways to enjoy your collection without destroying them, consider displaying them, using them as stress balls, or even doing some fun squishy photography. Always prioritize safety, especially when it comes to any products that might have unknown chemicals. Stay safe and squishy!