If you’ve spent a chunk of your summer hunting for dumplings, NeeDohs and other viral squishies, you’re not alone. They’re Gen Alpha’s Beanie Babies or Pokemon cards, but they’re quickly getting a bad rap. There have been reports of burns, recalls, concerns about off-gassing, and more. But because we need a really good reason to toss our kids’ most prized possessions, we asked pediatrician Nilay Donmez, MD, founder of First Steps Pediatrics in New York City, to share her thoughts.
So first off—are these squishies really toxic?
I wouldn’t call them “toxic”, but I also wouldn’t say they’re completely harmless. As a pediatrician, my advice is pretty simple: let new squishy toys air out for a day or two before kids play with them. They can release small amounts of chemicals when they’re first opened, and while the risk is low, I don’t recommend babies or toddlers chewing or sucking on them. For older kids who are simply squeezing or collecting them, I’m generally not too concerned.
What about the reports of burns?
The burn risk is actually what worries me the most. These toys should never go in the microwave, and they shouldn’t be left sitting in a hot car. Even if the outside feels okay, the inside can become much hotter than you expect. If a squishy is damaged, leaking, or unusually warm, it’s safest to throw it away.
So we don’t have to toss our kids’ favorite collectibles?
I don’t think families need to ban them. Most kids can enjoy them safely with a little common sense. Buy them from reputable retailers, don’t let younger children chew on them, and replace them if they become cracked or start leaking. Like so many things in pediatrics, it’s really about using them appropriately for the child’s age.
Do you have any concerns over how viral they are and the obsession over acquiring them?
Honestly, I love seeing kids collect things. Whether it’s squishies, trading cards, or stickers, collecting gives kids something to bond over. They trade with friends, organize their collections, and develop interests outside of screens. As long as it’s staying fun and not becoming an unhealthy obsession, I think it’s a positive hobby.