Stuffed animals. Depending on who you talk to they can be cute, dust-collectors, fun, pointless, comforting, and much more. For preschoolers, stuffed animals are likely trusted friends who are perfect for tea parties, imagination adventures, or simply a cuddle. No matter how you feel about stuffed animals and no matter how many your child has, you do need a way to keep them neat and tidy. There are a few different ways (both traditional and non-traditional) to organize stuffed animals -- depending on the layout of your house and your child's play space:

Shelves: Probably the most traditional way to organized stuffed animals, shelving is available in a variety of size, colors, and shapes. Depending on your space, shelves can be hung just about anywhere, including at low levels so little ones can reach better, or at a high level if you want to keep something just out of reach. In the interest of safety, make sure everything is secured properly, and talk to your little one about not climbing up the shelves or on furniture. You can personalize shelves in a number of creative ways:

• Line shelves with contact paper in bright colors and fun patterns
• Paint designs on shelves or use stickers on the flat part of the shelves where the stuffed animals rest. Don't forget to add visual interest by painting or applying stickers to the front of the shelf (the part that faces out)
• Instead of stacking shelves one on top of the other or side by side, consider staggering the layout if you have space

Hanging nets or hammocks: A very popular stuffed animal holder, hanging nets and toy hammocks () are exactly what they sound like -- a large net that you can hang, usually in a corner of the room.

Before purchasing, check weight limits to make sure what you are purchasing is big enough to fit your needs.

Toy chain: If you are looking to maximize space, a toy chain toy organizer () might be the way to go. It's just a chain that hangs vertically from the ceiling down to the floor. Clips secure light (check weight limits) furry friends. Again, if you choose to go with this route, have a discussion with your preschooler about safety -- no trying to climb up the chain!

Sitting space: Does your child have a chair, chair and table set, or bench in her room? Consider placing the stuffed animals she plays with the most in these places for a ready-made tea party!

Think out of the (toy) box: Repurposing items that are normally used for other storage solutions is a great way to organize stuffed animals try:

• An over-the-door shoe rack saves a lot of space and provides a nice surprised to a closed room or closet door. If the stuffed animals you are looking to store are on the small size, try the kind with pockets. If they are larger, use the type that use bands to secure all of your preschooler's furry friends.
• Pretty baskets make great stuffed animal holders. They can be placed on shelves, or simply around the room. Separate the stuffed animals by theme (Disney, dogs, zoo animals, etc) for a fun decorating idea.
• Buy a large bean bag cover and fill it with all the stuffed animals. Now you've got storage and a seat all in one!
• Laundry hampers are also great for rounding up all the stuffed animals in your home. Find one that fits nicely in the corner and comes with a cover.