If you have small children, you know how much they love their stuffed animals. But packing and moving those plush toys can be a daunting task, simply because there are so many of them and they are clumsy and awkward to box up. If your child is old enough, have them join in on the packing task. They may get a kick out of revisiting older toys and develop a newfound interest in them.
By the same token, you can use this opportunity to get rid of the stuffed animals that your child no longer wants. It’s best to toss them rather than donate them unless you’re willing to wash and dry them all properly so they are sanitized.
Packing your kids’ toys may prove to be more of a challenging task than you think. Take the time to pack them properly so you can maximize all available space in those bags and boxes. Here are some tips.
1. Sort the Soft Toys
You probably realize how fast stuffed animals can multiply over the years. Sure, they’re super cute and fluffy but they take up too much space. Go through the whole collection and make two piles: one to keep for the move and one to toss.
Throw away toys that your child no longer plays with, as well as those in rough condition, such as those with eyes missing or stuffing falling out. Some charitable organizations will take new or gently-used stuffed animals, so for those that don’t make the cut, tell your child that their old toys will make less fortunate children very happy.
Tip: when going through the stuffed animals, make this a solo activity. Refrain from holding up each toy and asking your child if they still want to play with it. If you know kids, you know they want what they see. Reminding them of old toys they couldn’t be bothered with before will only result in one big KEEP pile and a lot of tears if you say otherwise.
2. Remove Batteries
Next, take out any batteries from soft toys that make them sing, walk, talk, dance, etc. this is important for two reasons: to prevent those toys from making annoying noises during the move, and because batteries left in toys can leak or corrode.
3. Clean the Stuffed Animals
Cleaning stuffed animals before a move is an important step, often overlooked in the hustle of packing and organizing. This practice not only ensures that the toys are fresh and hygienic for the new home, but it also helps in maintaining the quality and longevity of these cherished items. During a move, dust and dirt can easily accumulate, and if the stuffed animals are already carrying grime, it can become ingrained, making them harder to clean later.
Washing them beforehand means they arrive in the new home in their best condition, ready to provide comfort in a clean, fresh state. This is especially crucial if your child has allergies or sensitivities; a clean stuffed animal reduces the risk of transferring dust or allergens into the new living space. Moreover, this cleaning process can be seen as a symbolic fresh start, not just for the toys, but for your child as well, marking a clean, healthy beginning in the new home.
4. Set Aside a Few Favorites
Instead of boxing them all up, consider leaving out a few favorites. These cuddly companions can be a source of comfort and stability during the upheaval of moving. Having them easily accessible can help alleviate some of the stress and anxiety that comes with changing environments, especially for younger children. They serve as a familiar touchstone amidst the boxes and unfamiliarity, offering a sense of continuity and reassurance that some things remain constant, even when everything else is changing.
Moreover, keeping some stuffed animals unpacked can be a strategic move for parents as well. During the busy and often chaotic process of moving, children might feel neglected or overwhelmed. Having their beloved stuffed animals by their side can provide them with a sense of security and independence, allowing them to self-soothe and find comfort in their plush friends. This can be particularly helpful in situations where parents are occupied with packing, organizing, or dealing with movers.
Additionally, these stuffed animals can play a role in making the new environment feel more like home. Once you arrive at your new residence, these familiar toys can be placed in your child’s new room, instantly creating a more welcoming and comforting space. This can ease the transition and help children adjust more quickly to their new surroundings.
It’s also worth considering the emotional attachment children have to their stuffed animals. For many kids, these aren’t just toys, but cherished friends who’ve been part of many adventures and bedtime stories. By keeping them close during the move, you acknowledge and respect your child’s emotional needs, which is crucial during a period of significant change.
5. Start Packing
Line a large cardboard box with packing paper, covering both the bottom and sides. Place the stuffed animals in garbage bags to protect them from moisture. Make sure each toy is dry before placing it in the bag, as any moisture can lead to mold. Tie the bag and place it into the box.
Place as many in each box as will reasonably fit. Don’t force a bunch in there, or you will risk damage and wrinkling. Seal each box and label with markers. Include a brief description of the contents and the destination, i.e., Megan’s room, kids’ playroom, etc.
Bonus tip:
Bags of stuffed animals act as great cushions for protecting other, harder toys, says Moving Tips. Nestle fragile toys in the box between bags of plush toys, and voila, you have an instant padded box. Just be sure that any art supplies you pack have been properly sealed to avoid leaks or stains; make sure all water toys like squirt guns are emptied and dried out prior to packing.Also, if your plan is to store the stuffed animals for a long period of time after you move, you’re best off packing those toys in plastic storage bins without garbage bags so they can breathe. Plastic moving boxes are pretty airtight, which keeps plush toys from getting damaged by mold or pests while being stored for prolonged periods of time.
Contact Olde World Movers
If you need help packing all those stuffed animals, or anything else of importance, we can help. Just contact us for a free quote today. Our professionals can bring all the proper supplies to pack up your belongings and move them safely.
Are you planning a move and feeling overwhelmed with the packing process? Let Olde World Movers take the stress off your shoulders! Our team of experienced professionals is here to provide you with top-notch packing services, ensuring your belongings are safely and efficiently prepared for the move. Whether it’s delicate china, bulky furniture, or your child’s cherished stuffed animals, we handle it all with the utmost care. Don’t let packing be a source of anxiety. Contact Olde World Movers today, and let us help you make your transition smooth and worry-free. Call us or visit our website to schedule your packing service and start your move on the right foot!
