FAQs
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Frequently Asked Questions

All

Q: Can I repair a broken toy myself?

A: Repairs are generally not recommended. Gluing may introduce new chemical toxins (such as volatile substances from strong adhesives), and altered shape after repair may ruin the stress-relief experience. Given the low unit price of such toys, direct replacement is safer and more hygienic.

Q: What alternatives are there besides squishies?

A: If concerned about chemical materials, you can choose natural stress relievers such as walnuts or bodhi beads (for hand-rubbing), or simple items like paper balls and fidget cubes. You can even release stress by exercising muscles with a hand gripper.

Q: Will adults be considered “childish” for playing with these toys?

A: Not at all. Amid high modern workplace stress, designs of fidget spinners, squishies and others have become increasingly business-like and discreet. Playing with them moderately at a desk is an effective way to improve focus and relieve fatigue, and is widely accepted.

Q: Can long-term use of stress relief toys lead to psychological dependence?

A: It is possible. If you rely solely on toys whenever facing pressure instead of solving real problems, an “emotional compensation” mechanism may form. It is advisable to use them as a way to regulate emotions, not as an escape from reality.

Q: Can stress relief toys really relieve anxiety?

A: Yes, but they mainly play an auxiliary role. Tactile stimulation (such as squeezing and kneading) promotes the brain to secrete endorphins and dopamine, temporarily diverts attention, lowers cortisol (the stress hormone) levels, and brings a moment of calm.

Q: Can I still use the toy if its surface feels sticky?

A: If the surface is severely sticky, the material has degraded or released internal oily substances. This not only worsens the feel but also attracts more dust and bacteria — it is recommended to replace it directly.

Q: How to dry stress relief toys after washing?

A: After cleaning, absorb surface moisture with a dry towel, then air-dry in a ventilated place. Avoid direct sunlight or high-temperature baking, as heat can cause the material to age, become brittle or deform.

Q: How to clean dirty soft silicone squishies?

A: Use warm water with a small amount of neutral dish soap, gently rub the surface by hand, then rinse thoroughly with clean water. Do not use alcohol or highly corrosive solvents, as they may damage the surface coating of the material.

Q: Why do squishies become hard or deformed after long-term use?

A: This is physical ageing of the material. After repeated squeezing and air exposure, the internal structure of PU or silicone gradually fatigues, resulting in slower rebound, sticky surfaces or hardening. This is normal wear and tear; regular replacement is recommended.

Q: What are the safety red lines when buying stress relief toys for children?

A: Children under 3 years old are strictly prohibited from playing with toys containing small parts (such as fidget spinners, pop-eye dragon eyeballs) to prevent choking. In addition, the materials must be free of BPA and heavy metals, and parents should supervise children to avoid biting the toys.

Q: What are the hazards of “plasticizers” mentioned in stress relief toys?

A: Plasticizers (such as phthalates) are commonly used to increase plastic flexibility. Excessive plasticizers in inferior toys may disrupt the human endocrine system with long-term contact or accidental ingestion, posing potential risks especially to children’s reproductive development.

Q: Why do some squishies have a pungent smell?

A: Pungent odours usually come from raw materials, with varying degrees of intensity. Fragrances are often added to the materials to mask the smell.

Q: Why do some squishies have a pungent smell?

A: Pungent odours usually come from raw materials, with varying degrees of intensity. Fragrances are often added to the materials to mask the smell.

Q: How to judge whether the material of a stress relief toy is safe?

A: First, check whether the product packaging has a 3C certification mark. High-quality products usually use eco-friendly silicone, TPR or PU materials, which are non-toxic and odourless. Avoid extremely cheap “three-no products” (no manufacturer name, no address, no quality certificate), as inferior products may be made from industrial waste.