How to Store Stuffed Animals in a Storage Unit

When you can’t bear to get rid of your childhood stuffie, you’ll probably end up putting it away in a box somewhere. Whether it’s in the back of your closet or in your attic or garage, there are a lot of places at home to store your stuffed animals – and a lot of ways that they can take up space in your home. That’s where a storage unit can come in handy, especially one with climate control.

With a climate-controlled storage unit, you won’t have to worry about mold and mildew or heat damage to your beloved plushies. Whether you're moving, decluttering, or simply looking for a way to keep your collection safe, here’s a step-by-step guide on how to store stuffed animals in a storage unit.

1. Clean Them First

Before placing plushies in storage, clean them thoroughly to prevent dust, dirt, and potential pests.

• Machine-Washable Plushies: Use a gentle cycle with mild detergent and let them air dry completely.
• Hand-Wash-Only Plushies: Spot-clean with a damp cloth and mild detergent. Before you do, test the soap on a less-visible part of the fabric to make sure it won’t cause stains or discoloration.
• Delicate or Vintage Plushies: Be extra-careful with these stuffed animals. You may want to consider sending them to a professional for cleaning.

After you’ve cleaned your stuffed animal properly, make sure it is completely dry before storage. This is crucial to avoid mold and mildew growth. You may also want to put your stuffed animal in the freezer ahead of time to kill off any lingering pests or dust mites.

2. Choose the Right Storage Containers

Selecting proper containers is key to protecting plushies from dust, moisture, and pests. A cardboard box won’t hold up, so you’ll need to find another option. Here are some of our favorites:

• Plastic Bins with Lids: Airtight containers are ideal for keeping your stuffed animals safe. With clear containers, it’s also easy to see what you’re keeping in which box.
• Vacuum-Sealed Bags: A great option for saving space, but avoid over-compressing stuffed animals – vacuum sealing may alter their shape.
• Fabric Storage Bags: These are breathable and prevent moisture buildup.

If you’re going to store stuffed animals long-term, wrap each plushie in acid-free tissue paper ahead of time to preserve it.

3. Add Protection Against Moisture and Pests

Even if you’re using a climate-controlled unit to store your stuffed animals, you should take extra precautions to prevent moisture and encroaching bugs. 

• Silica Gel Packets: Place them inside containers to absorb excess moisture.
• Cedar Blocks or Lavender Sachets: These natural pest repellents keep bugs away without harsh chemicals.

4. Stack with Care

Be sure not to pack your bins too tightly with stuffed animals – this could lead to your plushies getting crushed or suffering damage. When you’re stacking your bins in the storage unit:

• Keep heavier bins at the bottom and lighter ones on top to prevent crushing.
• Avoid stacking too high to prevent accidents and damage.

5. Check on Your Plushies Periodically

Every few months, visit your storage unit to inspect for any signs of pests, moisture, or damage. This allows you to take action before any major issues arise.

Final Thoughts

With proper preparation, your stuffed animals and plushies can remain in excellent condition while stored in a storage unit. By cleaning, using the right containers, and taking advantage of climate control, you can keep your collection safe and ready to snuggle for years to come.