Avoid Clutter with These Toy Storage Ideas

Kids' toys can end up making quite a mess. Sometimes, it may even feel as though toys are exponentially multiplying in our homes. Luckily, we’ve got plenty of toy storage ideas to help you handle the chaos, gain more floor space, and teach your kids the importance of keeping areas clear of clutter.

Below, we offer up toy storage solutions so everything has a place and you aren’t constantly battling a mess. That way, you won’t accidentally step on Lego or toy cars while making dinner or moving about your home. 

Classic Storage Solutions 

For playroom storage, a few classic storage solutions include having a designated toy bin. If one bin isn’t enough, grab a few, then tuck them away in an accessible place for you and your children. Underbed storage can also be a classic and easy go-to option. 

Alternatively, you may want to opt for special kiddy chests with drawers designated to toys. For instance, toys could be hidden away in the bottom drawer, which makes it easy for your kids to grab them when they want to play. This strategy can also be a great space-saving solution!

Label Storage to Make It Easy for Your Child to Clean Up 

While determining the best way to store your children’s toys, consider labelling each bin so it's easy for your children to not only grab the toys they want but also clean them up properly. On top of this, selecting transparent bins can further help your kids avoid making messes when trying to find the toy they desire, as well as make it very clear which toys go in which bins.

Keep It Fun 

pink kid play box for toy storage

Cleaning up toys doesn’t have to feel like a chore! You can even make a game out of it. For example, throw on your kid's favourite song and challenge them to pick up all their toys before the song finishes. You could also make it extra special by grabbing your kids cleaning gloves or other cleaning items, helping them “play” adult as they clean up their toys.

Consider making your kids' storage areas fun as well! For example, if the rest of their room is London themed, you can add a fun London telephone box wardrobe for proper storage of toys and other items.

Under the Stairs 

If you’ve got the space, we’ve got a few understairs storage ideas for you! This area of the home is often highly under-utilised. So, go ahead: Fill up these handy kids' furniture like shelves with toy storage bins and your kids' favourite books. 

Alternatively, if you have a little nook under the stairs, consider making this into your kid's playroom, keeping toys and other items in a specific spot in the house.

Utilise Benches 

Benches or blanket boxes in the halls can double up as second as storage units. This also works well for outdoor items, like shoes, sand toys, and more. Consider even designating a spot and hook for each individual family member. Then, everyone has their spot and space to keep their toys, gadgets, shoes, jackets, and other items.

Use Toy Bins 

If you’ve got a few bins lying around, we’ve got plenty of toy storage bin ideas. The great thing about bins is that they can be easily tucked away almost anywhere as long as they fit. You may even want to consider seasonal bins so that you can swap them out when the seasons change. 

At the same time, for toys in the home, bins can keep toys off the floor. Bins can fit into closets, drawers, under couches, under beds, and more. It’s all about finding the right size and spot. Alternatively, you can also opt for toy bins, helping your kids stay organized.

Underbed Storage  

Bunk Bed Underbed storage

Underbed storage units are another great space-saver. Depending on your child’s bed, you’ll want to select a toy storage unit for under the bed that is suitable to their bed size. You may also be able to find options, like the Lara Under Bed Drawer, that can even work as an extra bed for sleepovers.

On top of this, purchasing toy hammocks that hang above the bed for stuffed animals can also save on space while keeping toys out of the way.

Stylish Solutions

While it can be tough to keep your living room or family room’s original style in check with kids, it’s not impossible. You may choose to match your kids’ toy storage units with the decor you already have. For example, if you have a basket or wicker them, grab storage bins or other baskets for toys that match the rest of your furniture.

Use Wardrobe Space

A great way to hide away toys and other items is by making use of your home’s wardrobes. Reorganise your closet so that all the space is used. This may take some decluttering, shelf additions, and some re-arranging, but the result will likely be entirely worthwhile.

Create an Area for Your Children

Creating a designated kid-friendly play area can keep the toy mess all in one spot. This can be under the stairs or in the corner of the room. Find a little nook that works, then set up some shelves and bins to keep toys organised.

Define the Children's Corner With a Play Rug

Another great way to keep toys all in one spot is by defining the children’s corner with a play rug. This can mean just a regular ol’ rug or a rug with roads or paths your kids can drive their toy cars on. The main role of this rug is to keep the toy mess contained in a specific area, saving your feet from harm!

How Much Room Should Children's Toys Take Up?

Most parents don’t realize that kids probably need fewer toys than they have. In fact, you might even notice that some toys go unused for some time (if ever). This is a sign you can probably declutter and minimise the number of toys in the home. Using the 20-toy rule, you can further narrow down the mess and save on space.

What is The 20-Toy Rule?

Similar to the 3-3-3 minimalist rule, which encourages people to only wear 33 clothing items for the next three months, the 20-toy rule is also very simple: Allow your kids to pick 20 toys to keep, then give away or donate the rest. This can further help re-assess what toys your children actually use as they age, meaning this might be something you want to do every year to ensure clutter doesn’t pile up.

Consider also using the one-in-one-out rule, where if a new toy is brought into the home, another toy should be donated. 

How Do You Go Minimalist With Toys?

 Going minimalist with toys doesn’t have to be hard, either. Implementing the 20-toy rule is a great start. On top of this, you can buy toys second-hand or have your children pass down their toys to the younger kids in the family. 

Let Homeline Take Care of the Clutter

Looking for more kid's toy storage ideas? With over 40 years of experience in the furniture and storage industry, Homeline is confident that we have what you need. Check out Homeline’s kids and nursery storage items and begin decluttering today!

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