A family’s recent scare involving a popular children’s “squishy” toy has prompted a nationwide reminder about toy safety and the importance of supervising children while playing with sensory or stress-relief items.
According to the family’s report, the incident occurred when their child was playing with a NeeDoh-style squishy ball, a toy widely sold in stores and online as a stress reliever. The toy suddenly burst, spraying an unknown liquid that caused minor irritation and redness on the child’s face. While she is now recovering well, her parents decided to share their story to prevent similar accidents.
The toy in question is designed to be soft, squeezable, and filled with a colorful gel or liquid. Experts say that when these toys are punctured, over-squeezed, or exposed to heat, the internal pressure can cause them to burst unexpectedly, releasing materials that may cause discomfort or irritation if they come into contact with the skin or eyes.
Consumer safety organizations are reminding parents to inspect sensory toys carefully before use. Look for cracks, leaks, or weakened seams — and always follow the manufacturer’s recommended age guidelines. “Products marketed as harmless stress toys can still pose risks if handled too roughly or used near sharp objects,” said one safety spokesperson.
Since the incident, several parents on social media have echoed similar experiences, noting that the toys can be unpredictable if they’re older, left in the sun, or squeezed too hard. The manufacturer has also been urged by safety advocates to consider more durable materials and clearer warnings on packaging.
Here are a few safety tips experts recommend for families:
Supervise playtime when toys contain liquid or gel fillings.
Keep soft or gel toys away from heat sources, such as lamps, ovens, or microwaves.
Check toys regularly for signs of wear or leaks.
If liquid contacts the skin or eyes, wash immediately with water and consult a doctor if irritation persists.
Toy-testing agencies stress that most toys in this category are safe when used correctly, but any product filled with unknown materials should be treated with extra caution. “Parents should remember that even simple toys can behave unexpectedly under pressure or temperature changes,” said a child-safety consultant.
The family involved hopes that sharing their story will encourage others to take preventive measures. “We never imagined something so harmless-looking could cause that kind of pain,” the child’s mother shared. “We just want other parents to be aware.”
Manufacturers have since reiterated that customers should purchase these toys only from reputable sellers, as counterfeit or imitation versions may not meet safety standards.
The takeaway: playtime should always be safe time. With a little extra care and awareness, parents can help ensure that fun and creativity never come at the cost of safety.
