The braided bread squishy looks like the plaited loaf in a bakery window: plump golden lobes twisted together, each with a toasted brown top and a paler base, like a loaf just out of the oven. It comes inside a white mesh bag that gathers at the top into a plastic hanging loop, the way bread rolls are sold in a net.

Every lobe gives under the fingers. Grip the braided bread squishy and it squashes into the palm, the twisted shape pressing flat and bulging through the net, and then it slowly rises back into its plump braid. Because it is longer than it is wide, it can be squeezed in sections, one lobe at a time, which keeps restless hands busy for longer.

It is one of the larger squishies in the range, taller than an adult palm, so small children hug and squash it with both hands. The toasted colouring and the twisted lobes make it convincing in a play kitchen or a pretend bakery, next to the sesame bun and mini cake squishies.

The mesh bag protects the soft surface and gives a textured grip. The loop lets the braided bread squishy hang on a hook or a play-kitchen rail when it is not being squeezed.

Keep it out of direct sun and away from sharp objects and pets. It looks like real bread, so keep it away from toddlers who mouth toys; it is for children aged three and above.

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