What’s the best way to store stuffed animals?

Stuffed animals can bring joy and comfort to both children and adults alike. However, as collections grow over time, finding space to properly store them can become an issue. There are several factors to consider when determining the best storage solutions for your stuffed animal collection.

Baskets

Baskets offer an attractive and inexpensive option for storing stuffed animals. They come in a variety of sizes, materials, colors and shapes to complement any decor. Smaller baskets are ideal for keeping a few special stuffed animals within easy reach on a bed or desk. Larger baskets can neatly contain bigger collections and can be used as ottomans or side tables when not actively being filled with plush pals.

Look for baskets made of breathable natural materials like cotton or bamboo. Avoid plastic baskets, as they could trap moisture and potentially lead to mold growth. Wicker baskets allow for air circulation but can snag fur over time. Line baskets with a soft cotton fabric to prevent this. Look for baskets with sturdy woven bottoms that will hold the weight of many stuffed animals without sagging.

The openness of baskets makes them very accessible for play. However, it also means dust and dirt can settle on stuffies left in the open for too long. Baskets should ideally be used for stuffed animals that are in regular use. Rotate out seasonally to keep different plush pals fresh and clean.

Pros:

  • Inexpensive
  • Attractive decorative options
  • Allow for airflow
  • Easy access for play

Cons:

  • Openness can lead to dust build up
  • Potential for snagging fur on wicker
  • Cannot be stacked

Shelves

Displaying stuffed animals on shelves is an ideal way to keep them organized while showing them off. Shelving allows you to neatly arrange your collection while still having easy access. There are several shelving options to suit your space and budget:

Bookshelves

Standard bookshelves and bookcases make great stuffed animal storage. Adjustable shelves allow you to customize shelf height to fit all sizes of plush toys. Shelves should be spaced at least 10 inches apart to accommodate larger stuffed animals.

Look for solid shelves rather than wire or mesh which could catch on fur or fragile limbs. Sturdy wood or steel bookshelves will best handle the weight of a stuffed animal collection. Add cute lined baskets or bins to neatly corral smaller stuffies on shelves.

Wall Shelves

Wall mounted shelves add vertical storage space perfect for storing stuffed animals. Floating wall shelves come in fun shapes like clouds, houses, boats and more. Stagger floating shelves at varying heights for a visually appealing stuffed animal wall display.

Look for shelves rated to hold adequate weight and with borders to prevent stuffed animals from falling off. Mount into studs for safety. Wall shelves allow you to maximize display space while keeping stuffies up out of the way.

Corner Shelves

Take advantage of wasted corner space by installing corner shelves specially designed to fit snugly into a corner. This unique shape provides lots of surface area for stacking stuffed animals. Anchor securely to prevent tipping.

Corner shelves can be used to create a custom stuffed animal reading nook or plush animal haven.

Pros Cons
Visible display Can get dusty
Efficient use of space Could require installation
Customizable storage Heavy items may sag shelves
Easy access Flimsy shelves may collapse

Clear Plastic Tubs

Clear plastic storage tubs provide enclosed protection for stuffed animals while still allowing you to see contents. This makes it fast and easy to swap out stuffies or find a particular plushie.

Look for tubs made of thick, durable plastic with secure lids. Clear tubs come in stackable sizes ranging from small 3-5 gallon bins perfect for smaller collections up to large 50 gallon tubs able to contain dozens of stuffed animals.

For display, look for tubs with built-in shelving to neatly stand stuffed animals upright. Label tubs and shelves for easy organization. If stacking tubs, place heavier tubs on the bottom to prevent crushing.

Tubs can be used to create sealed storage to protect against dust, dirt, moisture and even pests. This allows long term storage of special stuffed animals such as collectibles. For frequently handled stuffed animals, rotating tubs seasonally keeps them cleaner.

Pros Cons
Protect contents from dust and dirt Less visibility/accessibility
Stackable storage Plastic can yellow over time
Modular and customizable sizes Less attractive looking

Hanging Storage

Hanging stuffed animal storage gets your collection up off the floor and creates an eye-catching display. There are several hanging storage options:

Over the Door Organizers

Door hanging organizers that fit over almost any door are a space efficient way to store and display stuffed animals. Clear vinyl windows allow you to view contents. Pocket sizes vary to accommodate small, medium and large stuffed animals.

Look for sturdy organizers with tightly sewn pockets that won’t sag or rip under the weight of heavy stuffed animals. Added structural support rods also help maintain the organizer’s shape. Door hung organizers are portable so you can take your stuffie collection with you while traveling.

Wall Mounted Wire Racks

Wall mounted wire racks create floating shelves to neatly display stuffed animals of all sizes. Racks come in various lengths with adjustable shelf heights to customize. Sturdy metal wire construction allows shelves to hold heavier plush toys.

Look for wider shelves or install lining to prevent stuffed limbs from poking through wires. Wire racks are great above beds, in nurseries or playrooms to keep stuffies handy. Racks maximize storage and display in smaller spaces.

Hanging Net Hammocks

For a fun and whimsical storage option, hang a stuffed animal net hammock. These woven rope nets hang from the ceiling and have openings perfect for securing stuffed animals while putting them on display. Nets come in shapes like clouds, stars, hearts, balls and more.

Look for nets with weight limits over 50 pounds to safely hold numerous larger stuffed animals. Position nets safely away from ceiling fans. A net hammock prevents stuffed animals from getting dusty or damaged but keeps them easily accessible.

Pros Cons
Fun display Dust gathers on tops of items
Efficient use of vertical space Installation required
Easy access Weight restrictions
Portable options Hanging risks if not installed properly

Stuffed Animal Storage Cubes

Modular stuffed animal storage cube sets allow for completely customizable storage solutions. They are ideal for optimizing smaller spaces like closets, under beds or dorm rooms.

Storage cubes are available in a wide range of colors, materials and sizes. Most include both open cube bins and cubes with doors/lids for concealed storage. Mix and match to create the ideal stuffed animal storage system for your needs.

Look for storage cubes made of durable fabrics like denim or cotton that allow air circulation and are soft on plush fur. Plastic cubes can cause condensation. Velcro, straps or zippers allow connecting cubes securely in limitless configurations.

Storage cubes can be assembled vertically to form floor to ceiling stuffed animal storage towers. Or spread horizontally over existing shelving for multi-level storage. Leave some cubes open for display while hiding excess stuffies behind doors.

Pros Cons
Customizable storage solutions Plastic can trap moisture
Fun colors and prints Set configurations can get pricey
Mix of open and enclosed cubes Fabric is less durable over time

Under Bed Storage

The ample space underneath beds tends to go underutilized. This makes it the ideal spot to stow extra stuffed animals while keeping them hidden and out of the way. There are several under bed storage options to choose from:

Under Bed Bins

Plastic under bed storage bins slide neatly under a bed frame. Lower profile wheels allow bins to roll in and out while providing lifted protection from dust or moisture from the floor. Lids keep contents sealed.

Look for airtight bins to prevent musty odors in stuffies. Bins come in stackable sizes with some featuring built-in shelving. Label bins clearly so you know which plushies are stashed inside.

Under Bed Drawers

Under bed drawers offer enclosed storage that pulls out for full access to contents. Drawers are on small casters that roll smoothly even when loaded. Combination drawer stacks with varying drawer heights and widths are available.

Look for drawer sets with washable cotton canvas or linen drawers. These allow air circulation while being soft on stuffed animals. Lids keep dust out when drawers are closed. Drawers can also be used for clothes or linens.

Under Bed Bags

Under bed bags are a very affordable and portable stuffed animal storage option. Durable polyester or vinyl bags zip closed and slide easily under the bed frame. Clear vinyl paneling allows viewing contents.

Look for heavy canvas bottoms to prevent sagging and dual zippers for easy access. Bags with compression straps cinch tightly closed to save space. Use bags to organize a stuffed animal collection by size, color or theme.

Pros Cons
Maximizes unused space Less convenient access
Dust-free enclosed storage Lower to ground risks moisture
Can repurpose for outgrown stuffies Size limitations for large collections

Conclusion

When looking for stuffed animal storage, consider your space, collection size and how accessible you need your plushies to be. Small collections do well displayed in baskets or shelves for enjoyment. Larger collections benefit from stackable plastic bins or under bed drawers to neatly contain the menagerie.

Proper storage keeps stuffed animals clean, safe from damage and readily available for all the love and snuggles they deserve. With the right storage solutions, you can keep even the largest stuffed animal collections organized.