Consumer Product Safety Commission warns of counterfeit squishy toys

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) issued a warning to parents about the safety hazards of fake and counterfeit squishy toys that are popular among children in the Acadiana region of Louisiana. The agency identified several risks, including water beads, small parts, lead, phthalates, other hazardous substances, and flimsy material that can burst.

The CPSC also cautioned against the viral trend of microwaving these toys, noting that the material can deteriorate, ooze, and cause burns. Parents are advised to check for signs of counterfeit products—such as missing safety information, strong chemical odors, oily or sticky texture, leaks, or easy tearing—and to report any problematic items to the commission for possible bans.