When you become a parent, kids’ toys gradually start taking over your home. And while I don’t want to overstate it, managing the clutter that comes with little ones can feel overwhelming. From climbing structures to bouncy houses and toddler trampolines, everything seems designed to keep them occupied. It takes time to learn what your child truly needs and what they will play with, which means there’s a bit of trial and error. It took me a few years to finally feel like I had a handle on things. Let’s talk about some creative toy storage solutions to organize your home.
Playroom Storage Ideas
After organizing toys several times and adding a second child to the mix, I’ve come up with a system that works for us. Through trial and error, I learned that open-ended toys are the best choice. For example, instead of a large Frozen-themed playset, opt for a few figurines. Smaller toys are easier to store and still provide endless creative possibilities. Large toys may seem fun but often take up too much space and are unnecessary. Instead, choose building blocks that allow your child to create their play scenarios. Here’s how I simplified and set up an organized toy storage system that works for us.
Toy Organization
Start by sorting toys by type. Younger children tend to have a lot of toys, so this step can take a bit of time. Honestly, I was already ahead on this one since I had organized toys by type previously. I use baskets in the playroom and living room to store the toys we plan to keep. Establishing a designated area for toys is key. It’s best to do this when your child isn’t around, as they’ll likely resist letting go of anything.
Toy Storage
Decide where you’ll store the majority of the toys whether that’s in a playroom, closet, or family room and utilize shelving and cabinets. We’ve set up a storage system in our playroom with labelled bins and boxes to store everything from art supplies to figurines. I use a combination of baskets, bins, boxes, and fabric organizers to group toys by type. While I had big plans to label canvas pouches, that project is still on the back burner. For now, I keep frequently used toys in baskets and bins at floor level for easy access.
Assess What Toys You Need
Reducing the number of toys is an essential first step. Kids don’t need as much as we think, and excessive toys can easily overwhelm the space. Between gifts and a period of isolation at home, our play areas were overflowing. I realized that decluttering was the best solution for managing the toy mess. After sorting through everything, I created a toy rotation system, used bins for storage, and implemented a storage system that works well even in small spaces. Not only does this cut down on the clutter, but it also allows for a more organized and intentional playtime experience.
Storing Large Amounts of Toys
When you become a parent, it quickly becomes clear just how many toys your little one accumulates. While purchasing every new parenting gadget is optional, exhausted parents often try anything to keep their children entertained or help them sleep. From cribs and changing tables to playpens and baby walkers, these items can start to fill up your home. As your child grows, they’ll need even more toys, like ride-on toys and things to keep their hands busy. Once they outgrow some of their favourite toys, you might want to store them for future use, which means finding space to keep everything organized.
Easy-to-Store Toys
At times, storage can be scarce, and clever design can make all the difference. Many pieces of furniture, such as folding playpens and multifunctional tables, can help save space while still providing effective storage options. For example, a baby changing table topper can easily convert a chest of drawers into a changing station, making the most of your space.
Toy Rotation
A helpful tip for managing toy clutter is the practice of toy rotation. This involves keeping most toys out of sight and offering only a few at a time. Research suggests that children play best when they’re not overwhelmed by too many choices. By rotating toys, you can create a more focused playtime experience, allowing your child to engage more deeply with each toy. This approach can also increase the novelty factor, making playtime more exciting and encouraging longer attention spans.
For smaller homes, toy rotation is a great way to strike a balance between play and tranquility. It helps create a calm living space without the overwhelming presence of toys everywhere.
Different Types of Toy Storage
In a playroom, toy storage doesn’t need to be hidden. It’s an opportunity to get creative with colour, layout, and textures. The space can reflect your child’s personality, whether it’s an artsy zone or a space for active play. A playroom can also have storage that’s fully accessible to your child, allowing them to explore and play independently. This is a key principle of the Montessori philosophy, which focuses on fostering independence in young children.
There are various storage options available to help manage your child’s toys. From basic storage solutions to more specialized ones, here are a few ideas to keep things organized:
- Wardrobes – Great for storing clothes, blankets, or even dress-up clothes.
- Chest of Drawers – Ideal for smaller items like everyday clothing, diapers, or accessories.
- Bedside Tables – Useful for night-time essentials like spare soothers or their favourite toys.
- Storage Shelves – Perfect for displaying books or decor items.
- Toy Chests – Best for larger toys, though your child may need help accessing these.
- Storage Boxes – Great for frequently used toys and easy access.
- Toy Boxes – Allow your child to independently access their toys.
- Bookcases – Available in different heights to suit children at various stages.
- Storage Baskets – Ideal for smaller or soft toys.
- Multipurpose Storage – Storage items that also serve as play items, like portable storage baskets that double as toys.
Tip: Use storage to divide the playroom into different areas. Try lining one wall with storage baskets of various sizes and another with shelves to display items. A play tent can also be a fun storage solution for soft toys.
For homes with limited space, stacking storage boxes can be a clever solution. If you’re looking to create more space for toys, consider setting up a separate playroom.
Smart Toy Storage Ideas for Kids
1. Small Toys Storage
Small toys can quickly turn into a chaotic mess if not properly organized. Here are some simple ways to keep small toys neat and easy to find. No more hunting for that lost toy soldier or miniature dinosaur!
- Drawer Unit
A drawer unit is perfect for organizing small toys. With multiple drawers, you can categorize and sort toys, making it easy for your kids to find what they need. These units come in various sizes and configurations, and some include removable dividers for customizing the compartments based on the type, colour, or size of toys. - Hanging Organizer
A hanging shoe organizer isn’t just for shoes it’s great for storing small toys. Hang it on the back of a door or a wall, and use the individual pockets to store toys and small items. The clear pockets make it easy to spot what’s inside, helping your child find exactly what they need. - Floating Shelves
Floating wall shelves are an excellent way to organize small toys while maximizing vertical space. Pair them with clear, stackable containers for easy access and visibility. You can also use colourful storage boxes for a fun touch while keeping toys sorted by type. Adding labels or pictures helps kids quickly identify what’s inside and encourages independent clean-up. Wicker baskets also make a charming and cozy addition to shelves while offering extra storage.
2. Board Games Storage
Board games are a fun way to spend time with family and friends. To save space and make them easy to grab, consider storing them vertically on a bookshelf using book holders. You can arrange the games by colour or size for a visually appealing and organized display.
If open shelves don’t work for your space, a closed cabinet is a great alternative. It keeps the board game boxes hidden while maintaining a tidy room. Stacking the games neatly with the covers facing outward allows kids to easily spot their favourites.
3. Toy Cars Storage
For little ones with a collection of toy cars, create a special parking spot! Car display shelves with multiple tiers and compartments are ideal for organizing and showcasing toy cars. These shelves keep the cars secure, and organized, and add fun to playtime. Install the shelf at a height that’s easy for your child to reach, allowing them to grab their favourite cars whenever they want to play.
4. Larger Toys Storage
For larger toys, there are several great storage options:
- Cube Storage Unit
A cube storage unit is versatile and practical for organizing larger toys. You can add fabric bins or baskets to fit into the open cubbies, making it easy to separate and store toys. These baskets are easy to move around, making clean-up time a fun game for your kids. - Toy Boxes
Toy boxes are a classic storage solution for larger toys. They come in various sizes and designs, and with a lid, they keep the toys out of sight, creating a cleaner and less cluttered space. Plus, they can double as extra seating or a coffee table when needed.
5. Plush Toys
Plush toys deserve their special storage spot. Here are a few creative ideas:
- Net Hammocks
A hammock-style net is perfect for keeping soft toys off the floor. Hang it in a corner or against the wall, and let the net hold multiple toys in a cozy, organized way. - Hanging Organizer
A hanging mesh organizer with several compartments is a great way to store plush toys. Hang it on the back of a door or in the closet for an efficient and space-saving solution. - Stuffed Animal Display
A stuffed animal display using vertical bars or ropes creates a fun “zoo” style storage. Not only does it keep the toys organized, but it also adds a playful touch to the room.
6. Collectibles and Action Figures Storage
Displaying collectibles and action figures can be a fun way to showcase your child’s favourite toys. Simple wooden display shelves are perfect for showing off action figures and small collectibles. They add a stylish touch to the playroom while keeping toys safe and organized.
7. LEGO Bricks Storage
Toy organizers are ideal for storing LEGO bricks. Modular organizers with open, removable bins allow you to sort the pieces by colour, size, or type. These bins are customizable, and using chalkboard labels makes it easy to identify where each piece belongs. The lack of lids means clean-up is a breeze just toss the bricks back in the bins!
For even more convenience, consider dedicating a large bin to unsorted pieces. Additionally, attaching LEGO baseplates to the top of the organizer lets your child build and display their creations directly on the shelving.
Conclusion
Overall, organizing toys can feel like a challenge, but there are many storage solutions available to help create a harmonious and functional space. Whether it’s clever storage boxes, stacking bins, or a well-organized playroom, there are plenty of ways to keep your home tidy while giving your child a fun, organized space to play. The key is to reduce the amount of unnecessary toys, create designated spaces, and implement systems like toy rotation to keep the space calm and enjoyable. With a bit of planning and creativity, you can maintain a clutter-free home while encouraging your child’s independence and creativity.
