35 Essential Facts About Smiski You Must Know

If you’ve ever stumbled across a little glowing figure hiding on a bookshelf or peeking out from behind a plant, you’ve probably met a Smiski! These tiny, glow-in-the-dark collectibles have a way of sneaking into our hearts with their quirky poses and mysterious charm. Whether you’re a longtime fan or just discovering them, there’s so much to love about these little guys. From fun facts to hidden details, here are 35 essential facts you must know about Smiski!

1.    What Are Smiski?

Smiski are small, glow-in-the-dark collectible figures that love to hide in corners, on shelves, and other cozy nooks. Each one has a unique pose, often displaying adorable and quirky personality traits.

They're known for their simple design: minimalist green or blue bodies with a round head, stubby limbs, and subtle facial features. Made of a luminescent material that makes them glow in the dark.

The concept behind Smiski is that they are mysterious creatures that live secretly in people's homes, only coming out when it's dark. They're said to engage in everyday human activities when no one is watching. Each figure comes in a blind box and shows the Smiski doing different activities like reading, sleeping, or playing.

Image credit: Smiski USA official Instagram page

2.    Who Invented Smiskis?

Smiski were brought to life by the Japanese company Dreams Inc., founded back in 1996. Dreams Inc. is known for its amazing ability to create toys that are both playful and charming.  The mastermind behind Dreams is Toru Soeya, the company's founder and president.

Toru Soeya. Image credit: Xtrend

Besides Smiski, Dreams has also given us some other super cute creations. You might have heard of Sonny Angel, those adorable little angel babies with their colorful headpieces. They also make Coink, a piggy bank that's too cute to resist, and Animal Bakery mini figures of sweet, golden brown animals who live in a bakery. And who can forget Cable Bites? Those little animal friends that seem to be munching on your phone charger? Dreams Inc. really knows how to make toys that bring a smile to your face!

3.    What Is the Story Behind Smiskis?

Smiski’s creators wanted to create a character that adds a touch of magic to everyday spaces. These little figures represent the hidden and often unnoticed joys in life, encouraging us to appreciate small moments.

The founder of Dreams, Toru Soeya, explains that when they were thinking about their next big thing after Sonny Angel, they realized that creating something for the exact same audience (mostly women aged 25-35) might not be the best move. We wanted to branch out a bit. That's how Smiski came to be – a bit more gender-neutral. While women absolutely love Sonny Angel, Smiski seems to appeal equally to both men and women.

Toru Soeya holding a Smiski package. Image credit: Xtrend

4.       How Do You Pronounce Smiski?

It's pronounced "SMEE-ski" – a fun and catchy name that perfectly matches their quirky personalities! If you're curious about the Japanese pronunciation, it's a bit closer to "SOO-mee-ski." You can always use Google Translate's audio feature to hear it for yourself.  

5.       What Does Smiski Mean?

The name "Smiski" is actually pretty clever! It's inspired by the Japanese word "sumi" (隅), which means "corner" or "nook." This makes perfect sense, since Smiski love to hide in all sorts of cozy spots. The name also has a bit of a mysterious and mischievous sound to it, which totally fits their quirky personalities.

6.       When Did Smiski First Appear?

Smiski first appeared on the scene in 2015.  Their official birthday is August 19th, 2015.

7.       Are Smiski Japanese?

Yes! Smiski comes from Japan, a country known for its creativity and love of adorable collectibles. They’re made by a Japanese company called Dreams, though the actual manufacturing happens in China—most likely to keep costs down.

8.       How Big Are Smiskis?

Smiski are just the right size – about 2.5 to 3 inches tall (6.5 - 7.5 cm) – so they're perfect for snuggling in all sorts of cozy spots! You can tuck them into bookshelves, hide them in plant pots, or even give them a ride on your dashboard.

9.       How Much Does One Smiski Weigh?

Smiskis are pretty lightweight, usually weighing between 20 and 35 grams.

For example, the Putting on Socks Smiski from the Clothing Series is on the lighter side at 21.5 grams, while the Lounging Smiski from Series 1 is one of the heaviest at 36.5 grams.

10.   What Material Is Smiski Made Of?

Smiski figurines are made of a durable plastic called ATBC-PVC.  This material is phthalate-free and bio-based, so it's a safe and non-toxic choice. 

What makes Smiski extra special is the phosphorescent material mixed in, which absorbs light and then releases it as a magical glow in the dark.  While toy manufacturers have limits on the amount of glow-in-the-dark powder they can use in children's toys (the ST mark standard is 3-5%), Smiski contains a much higher percentage (around 20%).  This is because they're not designed for kids – they're more for grown-up collectors. 

According to the founder, they went to these lengths because they wanted Smiski to have a really bright glow. They envisioned them shining like little fairy lights in the middle of the night, almost like tiny guardians watching over you.

11.   Can Smiski Melt in a Car?

The short answer is: possibly! While Smiski are made of durable PVC, they're not immune to extreme heat. Car interiors, especially on sunny days, can get seriously hot – we're talking temperatures that can easily climb over 140°F (60°C). That kind of heat could definitely melt or warp your little Smiski friends.

Plus, baking them in direct sunlight can fade their cute colors and ruin their glow. So, the best plan is to keep them out of direct sunlight and definitely not leave them in a hot car for long periods. If you absolutely have to keep them in your car, try to find a shady spot or a cooler part of the vehicle. A little care will keep your Smiski happy and glowing for a long time!

12.   Can Smiski Heads Come Off?

Yep, most Smiski heads are detachable and can even turn! However, there are a few exceptions. If a Smiski has its hands or a prop positioned close to its head, it might not be able to turn or detach.

13.   Do Smiskis Have Secret figures?

Absolutely! Each Smiski series has at least one super-rare secret figure that you won't find listed on the packaging. It's a fun surprise for collectors!

If you're on the hunt for a complete list of all the secret Smiskis, you can check out this handy list put together by u/kamisamakai.

14.   How rare are Secret Smiskis?

Secret Smiskis are pretty hard to find—there’s only a 1 in 144 chance of pulling one from a blind box! Here’s how that works:

Each sealed box of 12 contains a full set of six different Smiski figures, along with six duplicates. If a Secret Smiski is included, it replaces one of the duplicates—but not every box of 12 has a secret inside. On average, there’s only one secret figure in every 12 full boxes, making them incredibly rare.

However, there’s one exception! The Moving Series introduced the first Secret Smiski with slightly better odds — a 1 in 72 chance of finding one. Still tricky, but a little more doable!

Smiski Moving series. Image credit:  Smiski USA official Instagram page

 

15.   How Many Series of Smiski Are There?

As of now, there are 18 different Smiski series, each with its own unique theme and poses:

1. Series 1
2. Series 2 (Discontinued)
3. Series 3 (Discontinued)
4. Series 4 (Discontinued)
5. Living Series
6. Bed Series
7. Cheer Series
8. Museum Series
9. Work Series
10. Toilet Series
11. Bath Series
12. Clothing Series
13. Yoga Series
14. Exercise Series
15. Moving Series
16. Bath Ball 1 Series
17. Bath Ball 2 Series
18. Hippers

While most of these are still available, Series 2, 3, and 4 have been discontinued, making them extra rare to find!

Smiski Work series. Image credit:  Smiski USA official Instagram page

16.   How Many Smiski Are in a Series?

Usually, each Smiski series includes six regular designs and one secret figure, making a total of seven figures in each series.

However, earlier series like Series 1 and Series 2 had two secret figures, so those series featured eight figures in total.

Smiski Exercise series. Image credit:  Smiski USA official Instagram page

 

17.   How Many Different Smiskis Are There?

There isn't an official list of every Smiski ever made, but there are a few fan-made ones out there. For example, the Reddit community r/smiskis shared a list created by u/yunggho, which is great for tracking your collection.

As of the time of writing this blog post, it looks like there are around 130 different Smiskis in total.

 

Image credit: Smiski US Instagram Page

18.   Where to Buy Smiski?

You can purchase Smiski figures online from retailers like Amazon, specialty toy shops, or directly from Dreams Inc.

If you want a handy list of places to buy them based on your region, check out the directory on Smiski's official website.

For in-person shopping, the Sonny Angel app also offers a location-based directory to help you find nearby stores that carry Smiski figures.

19.   Are all Smiskis come in a blind box?

Yes, all Smiskis come in a blind box. within each individual mystery figure pack is one Smiski, as well as a guide that shows other figures available.

20.   How do I know which Smiski I'm getting in a blind box?

Since Smiskis come in blind boxes, it can be tricky to know exactly which one you'll get. But don't worry—if you pull a Smiski you’re not crazy about, there’s always the option to trade it or sell it to someone who’s looking for that one!

But if you want to skip that whole process, you have a couple of other options. You could buy opened Smiskis from other collectors, so you know exactly what you're getting.  Or, if you're buying in person, some collectors use the "weighing method".

They bring a little scale with them and weigh the boxes to try and guess which Smiski is inside.  There's even a handy weight list put together by collectors u/yunggho, u/ss_sue, and u/kamisamakai, which includes the known weights of different Smiskis to help with your guessing game!

21.    Where can I trade Smiskis?

Reddit is a great place to trade Smiskis! Check out r/smiskis, but be sure to read the rules and FAQ before making a trade.

Other platforms where collectors swap or sell Smiskis include Depop, Mercari, Vinted, Poshmark, and Discord. Each site has its own community and guidelines, so it’s worth exploring to find the best fit for you!

22.   How Much Smiskis cost?

Smiski blind boxes typically cost between $10 and $15, though prices can vary by retailer and location. The Hippers series tends to be on the higher end of that range. In Japan, they’re often a bit cheaper.

If you're looking for unboxed Smiskis, prices can range from $20 to $50 or more, especially for rare or highly sought-after figures.

23.   Why Are Smiskis Expensive?

Smiskis might seem pricey for their small size, but there are a few reasons behind their cost.

1. High-Quality Materials – They’re made from phosphorescent ATBC-PVC, a safe and durable material that gives them their signature glow. The glow formula used in Smiskis is much stronger than typical glow-in-the-dark toys, making them stand out.
2. Limited Availability – Smiskis are imported from Japan, and some series are only produced in small batches. This exclusivity drives up their price, especially outside Japan.
3. Blind Box Mystery – Since you don’t know which figure you’re getting, collectors often buy multiple boxes to complete a set. This demand increases their resale value, especially for rare or secret Smiskis.
4. Collector’s Appeal – With their quirky themes and adorable poses, Smiskis have become highly collectible. Rare or discontinued figures can sell for significantly more.

24.   Do all Smiski figures glow in the dark?

Yes, all Smiski figures glow in the dark.

25.   How to Make Smiski Glow in the Dark?

Smiskis love light! The more they absorb, the brighter they’ll glow when the lights go out. Here’s how to get the best glow from your little Smiski friends:

1. Give Them a Sunbath – Place your Smiski in a bright spot during the day, like a windowsill or a sunlit shelf. They need hours of daylight for a really strong glow. Just be careful—too much direct sunlight can cause discoloration over time.
2. Artificial Light Works Too – If sunshine isn’t an option, a bright lamp or even your TV screen can help charge them up. Some collectors swear by UV flashlights or UV nail lamps, which make Smiskis glow super bright in just a few minutes!
3. Rotate & Recharge – If you have multiple Smiskis, rotate their positions so they all get a fair share of light exposure.
4. Make It Pitch Black – After charging, turn off all ambient light for the best effect. Even a small nightlight can dim their glow.
5. Keep Them Clean – Dust can dull their glow, so wipe them down occasionally to keep them shining bright.

26.   Does Smiski's Glow Fade Over Time?

Yes, but only slightly! Glow-in-the-dark materials can be recharged indefinitely with light, but over time, their brightness may weaken due to natural wear in the phosphorescent material—especially if they’ve been exposed to strong UV light for long periods.

Just remember: the more they're exposed to light, the faster their colors might fade—so balance is key!

27.   How Long Does Smiski’s Glow Last?

Smiski figures typically glow for 30 minutes to a few hours after being exposed to light, gradually fading as time goes on.

Several factors can influence how long they glow:

1. Light Exposure: The brighter and longer the light exposure, the longer the glow will last.
2. Type of Light: Sunlight or strong artificial light works best to charge the glow, while dim light won’t be as effective.
3. Age of the Smiski: Over time, the glow may gradually fade a little as the phosphorescent material naturally weakens.

28.   How to Tell If Smiski Is Real or Fake?

Here are some key things to look out for to make sure your Smiski is the real deal, based on advice from the r/smiskis subreddit :

1. Price is Too Cheap: If it’s priced under $10 in the U.S., it’s probably fake—unless it’s from a trusted source or someone clearing out their collection. Even then, real Smiskis generally won’t be priced below $7–$8. If you’re buying directly from Asia, however, prices can be closer to $6.
2. Unverified Sellers: If the seller isn’t listed on the Sonny Angel app’s directory of verified sellers, that’s a major red flag.
3. Shiny vs. Matte: Fake Smiskis often come in shiny packaging, and the figure itself is glossy and doesn’t glow as well. Real Smiskis have matte boxes, and their figures have a matte finish and glow brightly.
   
   
   
   A fake Smiski vs. real one. Image credit: u/AgstWst on Reddit
   
   
4. Face Details: The face of a real Smiski is carved into the plastic, while fake ones often have painted or printed faces.
5. Trademark: Authentic Smiskis feature a trademark on the bottom, showing the production year and the Dreams Inc. logo. Fakes either don’t have this or have a poor-quality replica.
6. Packaging Differences:
• Fake Smiskis may have packaging that’s a different size or color.
• The Japanese text on the box may look odd.
• On the back of the box, where it lists the figures from the series, the description might be inaccurate. For instance, the Living Series might say “Shampooing” instead of “Daydreaming”. For example: Instead of the single horizontal line at the last part of the Japanese, it has two stacked horizontal lines (ニ). This is fake.

A fake Smiski vs. real one. Image credit: u/AgstWst on Reddit

 

29.   Are Smiski Hippers Reusable?

Yes, Smiski Hippers are designed to be reusable! They come with a special adhesive that lets you attach them to surfaces like phones, laptops, and more. If you need to move them, simply peel them off gently, dampen the adhesive with water, let it dry, and then stick it back in place.

As long as you don’t accidentally rip the glue pad off, your Smiski will re-stick just fine. If the adhesive wears out, no worries! You can easily replace it with some double-sided tape.

30.   Can Smiskis Get Wet?

It’s best to avoid getting your Smiski figurines wet. While they’re made from durable PVC, too much exposure to water can harm the paint, reduce their glow, or even cause mold or mildew.

To keep your Smiskis in good condition, store them in a dry, cool spot. If they get a little damp, simply wipe them down gently with a soft cloth.

31.   How to Take Care of Smiski?

• Handle with Care: Smiski are made of a durable PVC material, but they are still small and delicate. Handle them gently to avoid accidental damage like scratches and marks.  
• Keep Them Dry: Avoid getting your Smiski wet. If they do get damp, gently wipe them dry with a soft cloth.  
• Protect from Heat: Avoid leaving your Smiski in direct sunlight or in hot car interiors for extended periods, as this can cause them to melt or deform.  
• Clean Gently: To remove dust, use a soft, dry cloth to gently wipe them clean. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials.  
• Store Properly: When not on display, store your Smiski figurines in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. This will help preserve their colors and glow.  

Image credit: Smiski USA official Instagram page

32.   Why Are Smiskis So Popular?

Smiskis have become a favorite among collectors and toy lovers, thanks to their unique design, playful charm, and collectability. Here’s what makes these glow-in-the-dark figurines so beloved:

1. Adorable and Quirky Design: Smiskis are tiny, human-like figures with simple, minimalist designs. Their quirky poses and charming expressions make them irresistibly cute. Each figure captures everyday moments like sitting, stretching, or sleeping, giving them a relatable appeal.
2. Glow-in-the-Dark Feature: One of the coolest things about Smiskis is their glow-in-the-dark feature. It adds a bit of magic and excitement, making them fun to display and interact with.
3. Collectability: Smiskis are often sold in blind boxes, adding an element of surprise to the collecting experience. This mystery factor makes hunting for new figures exciting and fun, and fans enjoy trading duplicates to complete their collections.
4. High-Quality Craftsmanship: Despite their simplicity, Smiskis are made with great attention to detail and quality materials. The smooth, well-crafted figures feel premium to the touch, making them stand out among other collectibles.
5. Perfect for Small Spaces: Smiskis are compact, which makes them ideal for collectors with limited display space. They’re easy to place on desks, shelves, or in cozy corners, adding a playful touch to any room.
6. Universal Appeal: Smiskis' faceless, neutral expressions make them universally relatable. Their simple design fits into various decor styles, from minimalist to kawaii, and they appeal to a wide range of people, regardless of gender.
7. Social Media Buzz: Platforms like Instagram and TikTok have helped boost Smiskis’ popularity. Their glow and quirky poses make them highly shareable, creating a fun, engaging experience for creators and collectors alike.
8. Affordable Price: Compared to other collectible toys, Smiskis are budget-friendly. Their accessible price makes them a great option for both casual buyers and dedicated collectors.

33.   Are Smiskis Ghosts?

While their glow might seem ghostly, Smiskis are more like friendly, whimsical spirits designed to brighten your space. You can describe "Smisky" as a mysterious fairy figure that glows in the dark.

34.   Are there other Smiski products besides mini figures?

Yes, there are more Smiski products beyond the mini figures! Here are a few of them:

Smiski Touch Light: Inspired by the "Daydreaming" Smiski from the "Living Series," this touch light features Smiski pondering with a small cat on his head. It gently illuminates your room, and you can dim the light by tapping the body of the light. There are three dimming levels: Low, Mid, and High. Please note that this product doesn't use phosphorescent material, so Smiski won't glow when the light is off.

 

ZIPPERBITE: A fun new accessory that attaches to your zipper puller. You can hook it onto lunch bags, pencil cases, backpacks, and more. It’s also made from a phosphorescent material that absorbs light and glows softly in the dark.

Other Smiski products include keychains, bath balls, toothbrush stands, and more!

35.   How do I display my Smiski collection?

That's a fun question! There are so many creative ways to display your Smiski collection. Here are a few ideas:

Dedicated Shelf: This is a classic for a reason! A shelf specifically for your Smiski collection allows you to showcase them all together. You can arrange them by series, color, or even create little scenes.

Shadow Box or Display Shelf: A Lovely Little House wooden display shelf is a great way to showcase your Smiski collection in a fun and unique way. Arrange your Smiskis inside and add decorative touches like moss, tiny plants, or even miniature furniture to create a whimsical scene!

A Lovely Little House wooden display shelf

 

Terrarium: If you have a small terrarium, you can create a whimsical Smiski habitat. Add some colorful pebbles, small plants, and maybe even a miniature house for your Smiski to explore.

On Your Desk: Smiski make great desk companions! You can place a few on your desk to keep you company while you work.

In a Fairy Garden: If you have a fairy garden, Smiski can make wonderful additions. They can blend in seamlessly with the other miniature creatures and plants.

Image credit: Smiski US Instagram Page

 

Under a Glass Dome: Display your favorite Smiski figures under a glass dome to protect them from dust and create a beautiful and elegant display.

As Nightlights: Since they glow in the dark, Smiski can make wonderful nightlights. Place a few on your bedside table or around your room.

Miniature Diorama or "Smiski Apartment": Bring your Smiskis to life by creating tiny dioramas that match their poses, like a cozy bedroom, or a study corner. You can also mix in other mini figures to add personality and create fun scenes!.

ROBOTIME minature house kit . Image credit: Pinterest.