Stop Microwaving Your Squishy Toys: CPSC Issues Urgent Warning Over Viral Trend
Federal officials warn that heating popular squishy toys can cause them to explode, leading to severe burns and injuries from sticky internal materials.
Ryan Cooper 
A dangerous new social media trend has prompted federal safety officials to issue an urgent warning: never microwave your squishy toys. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) is sounding the alarm after viral videos showed popular squishy items, including those shaped like dumplings, expanding, changing color, and exploding after being heated up.
“These demonstrations are dangerous and should never be attempted or imitated,” the agency warned. When these toys are subjected to extreme heat, they pose a significant risk of bursting and releasing their internal contents. The CPSC noted that because the filling is often sticky, it can adhere to the skin, continuing to transfer heat and causing severe, deep-tissue burns.
The danger is not limited to the microwave. Officials warn that leaving these toys in direct sunlight or inside enclosed, high-temperature vehicles can also lead to bursting and injury. If a toy does explode, the CPSC urges consumers to exercise extreme caution during cleanup and avoid direct skin contact with the debris. For those who do suffer a burn, the agency recommends running the affected area under cool water for at least 20 minutes and gently washing the skin with mild soap. Consumers are advised to avoid using ice and should seek immediate medical attention.
Beyond the heat hazards, the CPSC recently recalled thousands of squishy dumpling toys that violated federal safety standards due to internal water beads that expand larger than permitted, presenting a choking hazard. Furthermore, the agency is battling an influx of counterfeit toys entering the country. As of September 2026, the CPSC has identified 55 shipments of fake squishy toys at U.S. ports, blocking 355,683 units from entering the market. These noncompliant fakes often contain hazardous substances like lead and dangerous expanding beads.
To stay safe, officials recommend buying only from reputable retailers and inspecting toys regularly for signs of wear, such as leaks, punctures, or unusual stickiness. If a toy appears damaged or deteriorating, it should be discarded immediately to prevent children from inhaling, swallowing, or touching potentially toxic materials.
