Learning Hub:
Caring for your Tools

Keep your sensory tools safe, clean, and ready when you need them most.

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Texture you can feel. Motion you can control. Calm you can carry anywhere.

Why Care Matters


Your sensory tools are designed to provide consistent, reliable stimulation day after day and a little care goes a long way in keeping them that way. Because each Prickly Pal is 3D printed and finished by hand, proper cleaning and storage help preserve its texture, balance, and safety for long-term use. Whether you use yours for grounding, fidgeting, or labor support, taking a few moments to care for it ensures it’s always ready when you need it most.

Explore the care instructions below to learn more.

Understanding Your Materials

PLA tools

Keep away from heat and direct sunlight. A hot car or a dryer can soften the material and change its shape. Wipe with a soft damp cloth or an alcohol wipe and let it dry completely. Do not soak.

Good examples include Stim Stick, Short Stack, and Twist Top Prickly Pal.

TPU tools

Flexible and grippy for a softer hand feel. More forgiving during cleaning, yet still sensitive to heat. Rinse briefly under cool water and pat dry. Avoid prolonged soaking.

Good example includes Prickly Squish.

Hybrid tools with bearings

These combine a rigid (PLA) body with a spinner bearing and a reinforced core. Keep the bearing dry. If spin feels sluggish, clear dust with a dry microfiber cloth or a short burst of air. Avoid oils unless you know how they affect spin.

Good examples include Prickly Pal Ultimate and Super Spinny.

Best Practices for Longevity

Simple habits keep your tools feeling consistent and comfortable. Use this quick checklist to protect texture, balance, and performance.

  • Store in a cool dry place away from direct sun

  • Keep out of hot cars and away from heaters

  • Wipe clean with a soft damp cloth and let dry fully

  • Avoid soaking in water or harsh cleaners

  • Protect bearings (if applicable) from moisture and debris

  • Do not bend or crush the tool during storage

  • Keep away from small children and pets

  • Use gently and only as intended for external sensory input

Cleaning Methods by Material

Different materials need different cleaning approaches. This guide helps you clean confidently without damaging your sensory tools or changing how they feel.

PLA Cleaning

For PLA (Polylactic Acid), wipe the surface gently with a soft damp cloth or an alcohol wipe. Do not submerge in water. If residue builds up between spikes, use a soft brush or cotton swab. Always dry fully before use or storage.

TPU Cleaning

Flexible TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane) tools can handle a quick rinse under cool water. Avoid warm or hot water, which can change texture over time. Let air dry on a clean towel or pat gently with a soft cloth.

Hybrid Tools (with Bearings)

Clean the body using a soft damp cloth, but never soak the bearing. If the spin feels sluggish, clear dust with a short burst of air or a dry microfiber cloth. Keep oils or lubricants away unless you are comfortable servicing bearings.

PLA Cleaning

For PLA (Polylactic Acid), wipe the surface gently with a soft damp cloth or an alcohol wipe. Do not submerge in water. If residue builds up between spikes, use a soft brush or cotton swab. Always dry fully before use or storage.

TPU Cleaning

Flexible TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane) tools can handle a quick rinse under cool water. Avoid warm or hot water, which can change texture over time. Let air dry on a clean towel or pat gently with a soft cloth.

Hybrid Tools (with Bearings)

Clean the body using a soft damp cloth, but never soak the bearing. If the spin feels sluggish, clear dust with a short burst of air or a dry microfiber cloth. Keep oils or lubricants away unless you are comfortable servicing bearings.

Safe Storage and Travel Tips

Whether your Prickly Pals stay on a desk, travel in your bag, or join you on a plane, proper storage helps them last longer and perform consistently. These simple habits protect their texture, shape, and bearings no matter where you take them.

Tips

Store your tools in a breathable pouch or hard-shell case to prevent dust or pressure damage.

Avoid hot cars, direct sunlight, or damp areas that can warp or soften the material.

Keep spiked surfaces away from delicate items like screens or fabrics when packing.

Let your tools dry completely before sealing them in a case or bag after cleaning.

Carry a small microfiber cloth to wipe away lint, oils, or dust during travel.

Travel Note

We have personally traveled all over the world with our Prickly Pals without any issues. However, airport security agencies such as TSA and various customs authorities change their guidelines frequently. It is always best to check your local or regional transportation regulations before traveling with your sensory tools. To clarify, Prickly Pals are not weapons, not sharp like knives, and have previously passed all security screenings, but this disclaimer is included to ensure compliance with changing travel policies.

Find your match

Not sure where to start? Everyone’s sensory profile is unique. Some crave motion, others texture or pressure. Use the Prickly Picker to find your ideal Prickly Pal.

Use the Prickly Picker to find your ideal Prickly Pal