Squishmallows are hugely popular collectible plush toys known for their squishy softness and adorable characters. However, copycat versions have flooded the market as well. And nothing can be more frustrating than buying your favorite Squishmallow only to find later it is fake.
Many fans are taking to social media to share their frustration of receiving rock-solid and low-quality Squishmallows that lack the signature squish. So, how do you spot fake Squishmallows? Well, here are a few reliable methods for accurately determining whether a Squishmallow is the real deal or an impostor.
6 Ways to Spot Fake Squishmallows
Image from RedditThere are multiple ways to spot fake squishmallows, so you don't end up buying a fake one. These checks include looking at the source, stitching, tags, and more. Let's discuss them one by one below!
1. Look For The Source
Spotting if Squishmallow is real at first glance can be difficult. However, certain signs can help you detect a fake one. To verify whether a Squishmallow is authentic, start by considering the source of your purchase.
The official Squishmallow online store on the Kellytoy website is the most reliable place to purchase authentic Squishmallows directly from the manufacturer. You can also find real Squishmallows at major retail chains like Amazon, Target, Walmart, and more.
However, unfamiliar websites lacking contact details or an "About Us" page could cause concern. It's best to avoid sellers you can't verify. Another red flag is the prices being too low. Legitimate sellers won't undercut MSRP by large amounts. The low prices on listings signify that the seller may be attempting to sell fake.
2. Material, Stitching, And Details
When examining a Squishmallow to determine its authenticity, the next key aspects to consider are: material and feel, stitching quality, and specific details and features of the character.
Squishmallows live up to their name. They should feel incredibly soft, squishy, and huggable. The material should be high-quality, with a smooth and plush texture. Fake Squishmallows, on the other hand, might feel stiff, lumpy, or even made of lower-quality materials that lack the signature squishiness.
Take a closer look at the stitching on your Squishmallow. Authentic Squishmallows boast tight, clean stitches with consistent thread color throughout. Uneven, loose, or poorly done stitching with mismatched thread colors can be a sign of a fake.
Each Squishmallow character has its unique set of details, like a penguin's flipper or a dragon's wings. Closely examine these details on your Squishmallow. Fakes might be missing specific details, have mismatched colors between the body and the features, or exhibit poorly embroidered features that lack the definition.
3. Carefully Check Tags
Credits: u/Gamerbry RedditThe little tags that come attached to your Squishmallow hold valuable clues about its authenticity. Every official Squishmallow will have three distinct tags sewn onto it - a hang tag around the neck and two heat-sealed tags tucked inside.
The backside of the first tag will contain product and company information. Make sure the manufacturer is Kellytoy.
Counterfeits commonly have flawed tags or none at all. Poorly made fakes may have tags with misspellings, spacing irregularities, or grammatical errors that wouldn't pass the manufacturer's strict standards. The printing quality is often grainy or faded compared to the crisp details on authentic tags.
Incorrect information like the wrong copyright years, company name variations, or date formats not typically used are suspect. Missing or non-matching tags across different Squishmallows from the same "seller" suggest they are fraudulent. Checking tags is key to ensuring each Squishmallow you collect is an original piece.
4. Check for the Hidden Hook
Credits: u/Gamerbry RedditOne of the secret signs that your Squishmallow is real is the presence of a small sewn loop on the right seam. This detail, often overlooked by counterfeiters, appears on the right side of the plush where the tag is attached.
If your Squishmallow has this neatly sewn loop, it's a good indication that it's the real deal. However, know that discovering the hidden loop doesn't guarantee authenticity on its own as well. But, it provides a useful clue to look further for other verification factors.
Do check out the best Cow Squishmallows as you go along. Don't worry, they won't be fake!
5. Visual Comparison with Official Images
Official Squishmallow products have identifying images on Kellytoy's website that show authentic style, colors, and dimensions. Review online pictures of your Squishmallow's specific character for accurate details.
Compare these official references against your plush, looking for any discrepancies in aspects like shading, facial feature placement, or proportions. Variations from official specs can indicate an impostor.
6. Identify Squishmallows at Risk of Being Faked
Certain Squishmallows are more likely to be counterfeited due to their high demand and limited availability. Rare and collectible Squishmallows, such as those from exclusive releases, holiday editions, or discontinued characters, are prime targets for counterfeiters.
Being aware of which Squishmallows are most frequently counterfeited can help you be more cautious when purchasing these specific toys. Always do your research on the current market trends and check for known fakes of particular characters before making a purchase.
FAQ
Are fake Squishmallows worth buying?
While fake Squishmallows may be cheaper, they often lack the signature squishiness and quality materials. They might fall apart easily and pose safety risks. Consider the potential disappointment and stick to genuine Squishmallows for a huggable and long-lasting cuddle buddy.
Are there specific Squishmallow characters that are more likely to be counterfeited?
Yes, some Squishmallows are more likely to be faked. Limited edition, rare, or popular characters with intricate designs are prime targets for counterfeiters trying to cash in on the demand.
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