If you’ve been to a toy store, browsed Amazon, or spent time on TikTok lately, you’ve probably seen soft, stretchy toys that are fun to squeeze. Squishy toys, stress balls, and slime are loved by both kids and adults. People use them to relax, stay focused, or just enjoy the texture. But what makes them different from each other? Let’s explore these popular stress-relief toys and see how they compare.
What Are Squishy Toys?
Squishy toys are soft, squeezable toys made from materials like memory foam or food-grade silicone. They are typically designed in fun shapes such as animals, desserts, fruits, or cartoon characters.
Their most iconic feature is their ability to slowly regain their shape after being compressed, creating a soothing, slow-rising effect that many find addictive and satisfying. Beyond their cute looks, squishy toys are often infused with scents—like strawberry, vanilla, or grape—enhancing the sensory experience. If you'd like to learn more about squishies, feel free to check out How to Make a Squishy: From Idea to Squeeze with Taba Squishy Toys.
Many collectors admire the intricate detailing and soft pastel aesthetics, while therapists and teachers value their role in promoting calmness and focus in children and adults alike.
Key Characteristics:
These squishy toys are not only visually charming but also provide a calming tactile experience. Their slow-rising nature means that when you squeeze them, they slowly regain their shape, giving a deeply satisfying feel.
Squishies are especially popular with kids, collectors, and people who enjoy sensory play. They work well as fidget toys and also look cute as decorations. Brands like Creamy Tree make soft, safe, and handmade squishies that are full of charm and personality.
You’ll find a variety of styles—from soft desserts to cuddly animals—each designed with comfort and safety in mind. Whether you're gifting a child or simply treating yourself, there's a squishy out there for every moment of calm. These squishy sensory toys are not only adorable but also functional for stress relief and focus.
Pros:
-
Great for fidgeting and sensory input
-
Cute and collectible
-
Often scented for added sensory appeal
-
Lightweight and portable
Cons:
-
Can tear with rough use
-
Some cheap versions may contain low-quality materials
What Are Stress Balls?
Stress balls are palm-sized toys designed to be squeezed repetitively to release tension and stress. They are often filled with gel, foam, or beads, and their texture ranges from soft and pliable to firm and resistant.
Many stress balls are used in therapeutic contexts, such as physical therapy for hand injuries or rehabilitation from carpal tunnel syndrome. They're also favored in workplaces as discreet tools to ease mental fatigue or fidget during calls. With options like mesh-covered balls that create bubble-like bulges when squeezed, or bead-filled ones that offer granular resistance, stress balls cater to a wide variety of tactile preferences and stress-relief needs.
Common brands include NeeDoh, known for their colorful gel-filled stress toys that have gained popularity for both kids and adults.
Key Characteristics:
While squishies are more about the cute factor, stress toys squishy focus more on function. They’re mainly used to help relax your hands and stay focused. You’ll often see them in offices or during therapy sessions.
Pros:
-
Effective for stress relief
-
Long-lasting materials
-
Some can help with grip strength or hand recovery
Cons:
-
Not as fun or decorative as squishies
-
Limited in design variety
What Is Slime?
Slime is a stretchy, gooey toy made from materials like PVA glue and borax. It can be clear, fluffy, glittery, crunchy, or magnetic. Unlike squishy toys or stress balls, slime allows for creative and open-ended play.
There are many types of slime, such as classic, fluffy, butter, crunchy, and magnetic, each with different textures. People often add beads, glitter, scents, and colors to customize their slime.
Popular slime brands include Elmer’s (known for glue used to make slime), Nickelodeon Slime, Slime Labs (offering fun slime kits), and Crazy Aaron’s Thinking Putty (a high-quality slime-like putty). These brands help slime stay popular for both fun and sensory therapy.
Key Characteristics:
Slime is popular with kids because it feels fun to play with, and many teens and adults enjoy mixing their own at home.
Pros:
-
Highly customizable
-
Ideal for sensory therapy and tactile play
-
Reusable and relaxing
Cons:
-
Can be messy
-
May dry out over time
-
Not always portable
Key Differences at a Glance
Which One Should You Choose?
Your ideal choice depends on your preferences, needs, and age group.
Choose Squishy Toys if you:
-
Love cute, collectible items
-
Want something that’s fun and calming
-
Prefer a slow-rising squeeze experience
-
Are shopping for kids or teens
These toys are perfect for school desks, office spaces, or just your nightstand for a relaxing squish before bed. They also make great gifts! Whether you're looking for squishy toys for kids or something therapeutic for adults, they’re an excellent option.
Choose Stress Balls if you:
-
Need to relieve hand tension or improve grip strength
-
Prefer functional over decorative
-
Want something simple and durable
Ideal for office stress or physical therapy, stress balls are a straightforward but effective option.
Choose Slime if you:
-
Enjoy creative play or DIY projects
-
Want a more immersive tactile experience
-
Don’t mind a bit of mess
Great for stress relief, sensory play, or even ASMR content creation.
The Rise of Squishy Toys in Pop Culture
Squishy toys are very popular, especially on TikTok and Instagram, where videos of people playing with them get millions of views.
They’ve grown beyond simple toys to lifestyle items. Many brands now offer custom designs inspired by fan ideas or popular trends like bubble tea or mochi. At Creamy Tree, we welcome all ideas and creativity — don’t hold back! Send us your thoughts, and we just might bring them to life!
Whether you prefer classic slow-risers or scented versions, there’s a wide range of squishy toys to enjoy.
Final Thoughts: Is There a Clear Winner?
Each of these toys has its place. For many, it’s not about choosing one—it’s about having all three depending on the moment.
-
Use squishy toys to decorate your room and relieve daily stress.
-
Keep a stress ball in your work bag for tough meetings.
-
Save slime for relaxed weekend fun or mindfulness breaks.
Whether it’s a squishy toy or some homemade slime, the goal is the same—a bit of fun, a bit of calm, and a soft squeeze to brighten your day.
Looking to start or grow your squishy collection? Check out Creamy Tree’s food collection or animal collection—each handmade with safe silicone and a whole lot of love.
