Viral squishy toys
While most squishy toys are safe when used as intended, some of them sold overseas have been linked to chemical exposure, burns and choking hazards. Learn what to look for and how to keep children safe.
"Squishies" are cheap, colourful, squeezable toys, often shaped like food items, that have become popular through social media for their sensory and stress-relieving appeal.
Before purchasing these toys, parents and caregivers should be aware that some squishy toys may contain:
- chemical hazards
- leaking contents that can burn at high temperatures
- hazardous items including sharp objects or water beads which expand if swallowed, potentially causing choking, internal blockage, vomiting and dehydration
- inadequate labelling.
What you need to know
There have been multiple reports overseas of squishies causing chemical exposure and reactions in children, burns from exploding fillings and choking and ingestion hazards from the contents inside the toy.
Squishy toys can become unsafe if the product:
- splits, leaks or breaks, exposing children to the contents
- contains small parts such as water beads that may create a choking or ingestion hazard for young children
- is heated, microwaved, frozen, or otherwise tampered with
- contains unsafe levels of chemicals or substances.
What you need to do
Before buying a squishy toy:
- inspect the product for strong chemical smells, leaking liquid or gel, tears, cracks, or weak seams or loose or detachable small parts that could choke a small child
- buy from reputable retailers and established brands
- ask the retailer for evidence or confirmation that the toy has been safety tested
- check the toy has clear age recommendations and safety instructions.
To avoid harm:
- do not allow children to chew, bite, puncture, or cut open squishy toys
- never microwave, heat, freeze, or alter the toy
- remove and dispose of any toy that becomes torn, damaged, leaks, or develops a strong chemical smell
- follow the manufacturer's instructions and age recommendations
- supervise younger children during play
- keep damaged toys away from young children and pets.
If you think a squishy toy may be unsafe:
- stop using the product immediately
- if someone has been exposed to the contents of a toy and experiences symptoms such as skin irritation, eye irritation, or feels unwell, seek medical advice
- in an emergency, call 111
- if the toy is leaking or damaged, avoid contact with the contents and wash your hands after handling it
- contact the retailer or supplier for information about the product and any recalls or safety notices
- check the Product Safety website for recalls and safety alerts
- report it to the Product Safety team using our Report an Unsafe Product form.
When reporting a product, include information such as where you bought the product, photos, packaging details, and any injuries or incidents. This information can help with our assessment.