NeeDohs and all sorts of squishy toys have been a thing for years. For the past couple of months, the squish toys have suddenly caught the attention of thousands of teens and adults on both social media and in East Wenatchee. The presence of NeeDohs has infiltrated many classrooms and everyday lives outside of school.
Across various platforms like TikTok and Instagram, the fame of NeeDohs skyrocketed, and so did the demand for them. It’s common knowledge that people want to feel accepted, connected, and closer with each other; this is why trends are a thing, and NeeDohs happen to be the new “best thing” that everyone wants their hands on.
The popularity of NeeDoh’s influence has spread to the minds of teenagers. Many teenagers that I know have been influenced by this latest trend. I asked one of my friends questions about her NeeDohs to get a better understanding of the hype for these toys. The questions I asked were: What made you want to purchase one? How many do you have? Why do you have that many? What does owning a NeeDoh help fulfill? What’s your favorite NeeDoh? Do you think the hype for them will die down fast? Do you think the hype for Needohs is as grand as the hype for Labubus or Fugglers?
Kaylee Perez answered that she purchased one because she was stressed. She owns 8 NeeDohs total. She has that many because they’re fun, and there are various textures. She believes NeeDoh’s help relieves stress, and uses it as a tool for boredom. Her favorite Needohs are Mello Mallo because they are soft, and her second favorite is the fuzz ball. She believes that the hype for Needohs will die down fast, but not very fast, because they do serve a purpose. She also said the hype is grander for Needohs because they are more affordable, serve a purpose, and have been popular longer.
The desire for them is present, but the reason for wanting them is across the board. Some wanted them for trends, some found an actual purpose for them. I believe that they will be around for a while, will continue to have a purpose, and will be present in classes because of the major trend.
