A Complete Guide to Their History, Uses, and Benefits

You’ve probably done it without thinking.

During a long meeting, a phone call that won’t end, or while staring at a blank screen, your hand reaches for something nearby — a pen cap, the corner of a notebook, a piece of packaging bubble wrap. There’s something instinctively calming about squeezing and releasing.

I didn’t pay much attention to squishy toys until I found myself doing exactly that with one sitting on my desk. A few minutes later, I noticed my shoulders relax and my focus come back. That small moment made me curious: why do squishy toys feel so comforting — and why are so many adults using them now?

What Exactly Are Squishy Toys?

Squishy toys are soft, hand-held sensory toys designed to be squeezed, compressed, and slowly released. When pressure is applied, they deform easily and then return to their original shape at a controlled, gentle pace — a feature often called slow-rising.

Unlike rubber balls that snap back instantly, squishy toys move slowly and predictably. That visible, tactile feedback is a big part of what makes them satisfying and calming to use.

What Are Squishy Toys Made Of?

Not all squishy toys are made the same. The material plays a major role in how they feel, how long they last, and how safe they are to use.

Common Materials

Many basic squishy toys are made from polyurethane foam (PU) or generic TPE materials. While these options are affordable and widely available, they often come with downsides:

• Strong chemical or plastic smells

• Cracking or crumbling over time

• Limited durability with repeated squeezing

• Unclear safety certifications

Food-Grade Silicone: A Premium Option

High-quality squishy toys are increasingly made from food-grade silicone, which offers clear advantages:

• Non-toxic and odorless – Free from harmful plasticizers and off-gassing

• Durable and hygienic – Tear-resistant, washable, and long-lasting

• Comfortable tactile feedback – Smooth, resilient, and deeply satisfying to squeeze

When a squishy toy starts with safe, reliable materials, it becomes more than a novelty item — it becomes something you can comfortably use every day.

A Brief History of Squishy Toys

Squishy toys first gained popularity in Japan in the early 2000s, closely tied to kawaii (cute) culture. Japanese designers combined slow-rising foam technology with charming, highly detailed designs — animals, pastries, and everyday objects transformed into playful collectibles.

These toys weren’t just meant to be played with. They were collected, displayed, and used as small comfort objects.

The rise of YouTube and Instagram helped squishy toys reach a global audience. ASMR videos featuring squishing sounds and slow-motion visuals attracted millions of viewers, turning squishies into an international trend.

As squishy toys became popular outside Asia, expectations changed. Adults began using them for focus, stress relief, and mindfulness, which increased demand for safer, more durable materials. This shift helped move squishy toys from novelty trends to practical sensory tools.

What Are Squishy Toys Used For?

Today, squishy toys are used by people of all ages and backgrounds. Many adults keep one on a desk, in a bag, or beside their bed.

Common situations include:

• During work meetings or study sessions

• While commuting or traveling

• As a quiet fidget during phone calls

• In moments of stress or restlessness

They’re simple, discreet, and easy to use without drawing attention.

The Real Benefits of Squishy Toys

1. Stress and Anxiety Relief

The repeated motion of squeezing and releasing helps release nervous energy. This rhythmic action can interrupt racing thoughts and bring attention back to the present moment.

For many people, it works like a small physical reset during stressful moments.

2. Improved Focus (Especially for ADHD)

Some people focus better when their hands are occupied. Squishy toys provide a quiet, socially acceptable way to fidget without distracting others.

By giving restless energy somewhere to go, they can make it easier to concentrate on listening, reading, or problem-solving.

3. Sensory Regulation

Squishy toys offer consistent pressure and resistance, which can help calm the nervous system. This can be especially helpful for individuals with sensory sensitivities or autism.

In these cases, non-toxic, food-grade materials are especially important — particularly for children who may put objects in their mouths.

4. A Simple Path to Mindfulness

Mindfulness doesn’t need to be complicated. A squishy toy can be used as a grounding tool by matching your breathing to the squeeze-and-release motion.

Press while inhaling. Release while exhaling.
Simple, quiet, effective.

5. Play and Collection

Beyond the benefits, squishy toys are simply enjoyable. Cute designs, realistic details, or favorite characters can add a sense of playfulness to everyday spaces.

For many collectors, they’re small objects that spark joy.

How to Choose the Best Squishy Toy

With so many options available, choosing the right squishy toy comes down to a few key factors:

Prioritize Safety

Look for clear labels such as:

• Non-toxic

• BPA-free

• Food-grade silicone

Avoid toys with strong chemical smells or unclear safety information.

Match the Feel to Your Needs

• Denser squishies offer stronger resistance and deeper pressure

• Medium-soft squishies are ideal for focus and light fidgeting

Choose a texture that feels calming — smooth, matte, or lightly textured.

Design Matters

Some people prefer minimal shapes, while others are drawn to animals or food-inspired designs. The more you like how it looks and feels, the more likely you are to actually use it.

Consider Practical Details

• Is it washable?

• Does it fit in your pocket or bag?

• Are seams well-made and durable?

Small details make a big difference over time.

Final Thoughts: Softness Is a Strength

In a world that moves fast and feels constantly demanding, allowing yourself a moment of soft, deliberate feedback can be a form of self-care.

Squishy toys are more than just toys — especially when they’re made from safe, durable materials like food-grade silicone. For many people, they become a small daily habit: a pause, a reset, a way to stay grounded.

Sometimes, something simple really is enough.