How to store stuffed animals in a garage?

To store stuffed animals in a garage, place them in airtight plastic containers with tight-fitting lids to protect them from dust, moisture, insects, and rodents. You can also use vacuum-seal bags inside the plastic totes to save space, but avoid over-compressing them. For best results, freeze the stuffed animals beforehand to kill any potential pests or mites, and store the containers in a somewhat temperature-controlled area of the garage, rather than on the floor.

Can you store stuffed animals in the garage?

It's best not to store plush toys such as stuffed animals in your garage. Make sure to protect your child's favorite toys by keeping them stored in metal or plastic airtight containers. Keep these items away from dust mites and other insects that may feed on them.

What is the best way to store stuffed animals in storage?

Now once the stuffed animals are clean, happy and healthy, it's time to pack them for storage. It's a good idea to wrap your plush toys in acid-free tissue paper, especially if you're storing antique, valuable or collectible stuffed animals long-term. Next, you want to put the toys in plastic tubs with lids.

Can heat damage stuffed animals?

Not advisable if you can help it. Heat like that can literally melt some types of plastic material, crack pleather, and if there's any type of humidity it's going to get much worse.

How to prevent mold on stuffed animals?

To prevent mold growth, make sure the stuffed animal fully dries after washing. If the item has holes in the seams or you are concerned the stuffing may fall out, we recommend gently hand washing or spot cleaning the item rather than washing it in the machine.

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Will stuffed animals mold if air dried?

Step 4: Air Dry and Fluff

Even for machine-washable stuffed toys, you will want to skip the dryer (unless the manufacturer's label mentions it's safe for low-heat cycles). However, it's important to thoroughly dry them to prevent mold and odors.

Can stuffed animals get bugs?

While bed bugs are a primary concern, other insects might also inhabit stuffed animals, such as carpet beetles or mites. Carpet beetles can cause damage to fabrics and are attracted to organic materials like wool and feathers found in some stuffed animals.

Can you store stuffed animals in plastic bags?

In that case, it's important to ensure that they are protected in airtight containers or plastic bags to prevent dust, humidity, and pests from affecting them. It's generally better to store stuffed animals in a controlled environment with stable temperature and humidity levels to maintain their condition if possible.

Can stuffed animals carry diseases?

Stuffed toys collect plenty of dust and germs while they are being carried everywhere by your kids. These toys could hence be a source of infection and allergies for your child.

How many years do stuffed animals last?

How long a stuffed animal lasts also depends on how well it's cared for. We all remember a friend who kept a teddy bear until college, but the usual lifespan of a stuffed animal is only five years -- or a few months, if the toy is not treated properly.

Where to put old stuffed animals?

Try donating your stuffed animal or plush toy to an animal shelter or a neighbor with a dog. They are also accepted at some textile collection bins. Check the organization's list of acceptable materials before donating these items. If you can't find someone willing to take it, your stuffy goes in the trash.

How do I protect things stored in my garage?

Items That Attract Pests and Rodents

Instead of cardboard boxes, use waterproof, pest-proof plastic bins to store your items. Food — You shouldn't store food for pets, birds, or humans in your garage. Pests can often detect food, even if packed in a container.

Is brain damage from mold reversible?

Mold exposure can cause issues with concentration, judgment, and overall brain function. Luckily, memory loss caused by mold is often reversible once the mold is eliminated from a home. Alzheimer's researcher Dr. Amen found that memory loss from mold is often misdiagnosed as dementia or Alzheimer's.

How to clean mold spores from stuffed animals?

Vinegar is another substance that kills mold spores and also removes the musty odor. Try: Adding one-half to one cup of vinegar to the wash cycle. If you prefer, pour one cup of vinegar directly into the wash water before adding the stuffed animal.

Do stuffed animals attract dust?

Stuffed animals are pros at collecting allergens, like dust, deep in its fibres and without proper cleaning and care, they can be tricky to remove. Here are a few things your stuffed toys can collect overtime: Dust: Dust mites thrive in soft fabrics.

How to protect a teddy bear from dust?

Protect from Dust:

Store your teddy bear in a breathable bag or container. Avoid plastic bags, as they can trap moisture.