Whether the Winnie the Pooh plush is no longer your child’s favorite toy (in the whole wide world) or your living room is overrun by Squishmallows, we understand if you need to store these plush companions long-term or prepare them for moving. Stuffed animals hold sentimental, and sometimes even monetary, value.
Whether you’re looking to preserve childhood memories for the future or just need to clear out some space, this guide will provide you with step-by-step instructions to store or pack stuffed animals properly.
Why Proper Storage and Packing Matters
For many families, stuffed animals become cherished companions, and the idea of parting with them can be difficult. In some cases, they’re passed down through generations, making proper care essential. By following these steps, you’ll ensure that your child’s toys remain in great condition whether you’re moving homes or preserving them in long-term storage.
How to Store Stuffed Animals for Long-Term Storage
If you’re planning to store stuffed animals long-term, it’s essential to do it right. Here’s how:
1. Clean Your Stuffed Animals
Cleaning your stuffed animals is a crucial first step before packing them for storage. Whether the toys have been handled with sticky fingers or taken on muddy adventures, you don’t want dirt or odors lingering, as these can attract pests and rodents in storage.
Machine Washable Toys:
- If the stuffed animals are machine-washable, check the care tag for instructions.
- Use a mesh laundry bag to protect delicate parts and wash them on a “delicate” cycle with cold water and mild detergent.
Non-Washable Toys:
- If the toy isn’t suitable for machine washing, fill a sink or bowl with cool water and add a mild detergent.
- Gently hand-wash the toy, focusing on any stained areas, and be sure to rinse thoroughly.
Drying:
- Make sure to dry the toys completely before putting them in storage. Any moisture left inside could lead to mold or mildew.
- You can hang them to air-dry, or in sunny weather, drying them outside is ideal.
Pro Tip: If a toy is particularly hard to clean, you may want to remove the stuffing first. Usually, there’s a small seam on the back that you can snip open with scissors. After washing and drying, you can replace the old stuffing or add new.
2. Repair Any Damage
Stuffed animals often suffer wear and tear over time, from missing limbs to ripped seams. Before storing them away, give your plush toys a little TLC.
- Sew Rips and Tears: If any seams have come apart, fix them with a needle and thread. It’s important to repair these before storage to avoid further damage.
- Restuff as Needed: If the plush toy has lost some of its shape, add new stuffing to bring it back to life.
3. Pack Your Stuffed Animals Properly
Now that your toys are clean and repaired, it’s time to pack them properly for long-term storage.
- Wrap in Acid-Free Tissue Paper: For delicate or collectible stuffed animals, wrap each toy individually in acid-free tissue paper. This extra layer of protection prevents dust buildup and minimizes damage over time.
- Use Plastic Tubs with Lids: Place your stuffed animals in plastic storage containers with secure lids. These containers will protect the toys from moisture, dust, and pests. Avoid overpacking the tubs to prevent distorting the plush toys.
- Avoid Vacuum-Seal Bags: While vacuum-sealing can save space, it can also flatten stuffed animals and permanently alter their shape. For long-term storage, it’s better to leave some room for the toys to breathe.
4. Choose a Climate-Controlled Storage Unit
A climate-controlled storage unit is the best way to ensure your stuffed animals are preserved in top condition. Temperature fluctuations can cause condensation, which could result in mold and mildew. By keeping the environment stable, your plush toys will be protected from both humidity and extreme cold or heat.
FAQs: Storing Stuffed Animals
- Is it okay to store stuffed animals in plastic keepers?
Yes, plastic tubs with secure lids are the best storage option for stuffed animals. They protect the toys from pests, moisture, and dust.
- Can you store stuffed animals in the attic?
You can, but it’s not ideal. Attics tend to experience temperature and humidity fluctuations, which can damage stuffed toys. A climate-controlled storage unit is a safer choice.
How to Pack Stuffed Animals for Moving
If you’re in the process of moving, it’s important to pack your stuffed animals carefully to avoid damage. Let’s dive into the steps of properly packing stuffed animals for a smooth and safe move.
The Need for Sorting Soft Toys
Stuffed animals seem to multiply overnight, and suddenly you find yourself surrounded. Decluttering before a move can save you time and space.
Why Sort? Not every toy needs to make the journey to your new home. Decluttering your collection is a smart way to free up space, making packing easier.
The Gift of Giving:
Consider donating toys that your children no longer love. These donations can bring joy to another child, making your move not only more manageable but also meaningful.
Battery Removal
Some stuffed animals feature built-in electronics, and leaving batteries inside can cause issues.
- Turn off the toy.
- Use a screwdriver to access the battery compartment.
- Remove the batteries to avoid leakage or corrosion during the move.
Clean the Stuffed Animals Before the Move
Just like with long-term storage, cleaning your stuffed animals before moving is essential.
- Vacuuming: A quick vacuuming session can remove surface dust and dirt.
- Hand Washing: If a toy needs a deeper clean, use a mild detergent and cool water.
Setting Aside Favorite Toys
During a move, emotions run high for everyone, especially kids. Set aside a few favorite plush toys to keep within easy reach. These VIP (Very Important Plushies) will provide comfort during the transition.
The Packing Process
Here’s how to properly pack stuffed animals for a safe move:
Materials Needed:
- Large cardboard boxes
- Soft wrapping paper
- Plastic garbage bags
- Packing tape
Steps for Packing:
- Wrap Individual Toys: For smaller or more delicate toys, wrap each one in soft wrapping paper to protect their fur and any fragile parts.
- Boxing Them Up: Place the wrapped toys in large cardboard boxes. Don’t overfill the boxes, as that could crush the toys and cause them to lose their shape.
- Seal the Boxes: Use packing tape to seal the boxes securely.
FAQs: Packing Stuffed Animals for Moving
- Can you vacuum-pack stuffed animals for moving?
Yes, vacuum-packing can compress the toys and save space, but be cautious. If left compressed for too long, stuffed animals can lose their shape. For long-term moves, it’s better to let the toys breathe.
- How do you travel with a large stuffed animal?
Traveling with a large stuffed animal can be tricky. In a car, use a seatbelt or large bag to secure it. If flying, check with your airline to see if it can be brought as carry-on luggage.
- Do you need to wrap stuffed animals for moving?
Wrapping isn’t required, but it’s a good idea to protect the toys. Soft wrapping paper or bubble wrap works well, but avoid wrapping too tightly to prevent deforming the toy.
- Can you machine-dry large stuffed animals?
It’s generally not recommended, as machine drying can cause fur to mat and stuffing to clump. Always check the care label for specific instructions.
Properly storing or packing stuffed animals ensures they stay in excellent condition, whether you’re preserving childhood memories for the future or preparing for a move. By following the tips outlined in this guide, you’ll have peace of mind knowing that these cherished companions are safe and sound. Whether for long-term storage in a climate-controlled unit or for moving to a new home , your stuffed animals will be ready for the next chapter.
Are you ready to store or move your stuffed animals? Reach out to us at My Stack Box for all your short or long-term storage needs. Our containers have numerous features you won’t find in any other storage units, including double door access at both ends and dual air ventilation.
Moving home? We have you covered too. We understand the stress the moving process involves and are here to make your move as seamless and stress free as possible. We will first deliver your My Stack Box movable container to your home at the time you want it. You can the take all the time you need to pack up and fill your personal storage container . Our expert team will pick it up when you’re finished. We’ll then deliver your portable storage container to your next destination. You’ll be able to empty it at your leisure. Experience no stress or pressure, the My Stack Box way!
Contact Us today for a moving or storage quote!