The perpetual struggle with toy clutter is a familiar plight for many parents. The constant sprawl of toys can not only consume valuable space in your home but also pose safety risks, as anyone who’s ever tripped over a stray LEGO brick at 3 am will attest. To regain control and sanity, it’s essential to establish designated zones for each type of toy. Encourage your child to develop the habit of putting away games in one spot, stuffed animals in another, and cars in yet another location.
A ‘random toys’ box can be a helpful catch-all for miscellaneous items that don’t fit neatly into a specific category. To get started, we’ve gathered innovative toy storage ideas from around the web, taking into account the unique space constraints of your home and the developmental needs of your children. By considering these factors and leveraging affordable solutions, you’ll be well on your way to creating a more organized, stress-free environment that your family can enjoy.
44 Toy Storage Ideas to Contain the Clutter
The Leaning Tower of Toys
This versatile shelving tower is just as suitable for a living room as it is for a playroom. Unlike traditional shelves, this design features built-in boxes of varying sizes – large ones at the bottom, medium-sized ones in the middle, and a basic shelf on top. This provides ample storage space for toys, with enough room to accommodate labels on the front for kids to keep their belongings organized. To blend seamlessly with your home’s décor, simply paint the tower any color you prefer.
Functional and Inexpensive Mesh Hangers
The proyectos. habitissimo. es hanging containers offer a convenient and practical way to keep toys off the floor. Designed for lighter playthings like stuffed animals or dolls, these organizers can also accommodate balls and other similar items. While young children may not be able to access the upper shelves, this storage solution is ideal for occasional use toys rather than those that require daily attention.
When not in use, the hanger’s design allows it to fold flat, minimizing its footprint and making it a great space-saving option.
Classic Cube Shelves
Cube-style shelves are an excellent choice for organizing toys and storage needs. These practical and affordable options can be found at most big-box stores. The versatility of these shelves lies in their ability to accommodate various items, including books, games, and larger objects. To maximize space efficiency, consider using the accompanying storage boxes that come in a range of colors. Place heavier or larger items on the bottom shelf and reserve the top for lighter, easier-to-reach items.
When selecting a cube shelf unit, keep in mind that larger units can be more challenging for children to access contents on higher shelves.
Cheap Storage Off the Floor
When it comes to keeping toys tidy and accessible, parents often seek solutions that elevate their little one’s playthings off the floor. The humble over-the-door hanger proves a game-changer in this regard, particularly for smaller stuffed animals. By designating a specific number of pockets for your child’s favorite critters, you can maintain a manageable collection while keeping the rest stored out of sight.
This clever hack also showcases the creative repurposing of inexpensive laundry baskets for storage – simply hook them up with the large hooks to keep them off the floor, yet easily detachable when playtime calls. This versatile setup works wonders for toys like dollhouse furniture, toy cars and trains, dress-up clothes, or even other knick-knacks that can be neatly stored and retrieved as needed.
Easy Wall Garage for Cars
What’s old is new again – at least when it comes to creative DIY projects! Take a look at this genius shoe rack turned garage, cleverly repurposed from ordinary pieces to create a unique and functional storage space for toy cars. Abandon the instructions and instead mount the shoe rack components directly onto the wall, transforming them into a mini garage that’s perfect for little hands to manage.
You can also opt for a more rustic approach using small planks of wood and wall brackets, as long as you pay attention to the height so your child can easily stash their toys away. To avoid any potential messes, consider designing it with safety in mind – after all, you wouldn’t want those toy cars rolling off the shelf!
The Stuffed Animal Zoo
When stuffed animals start accumulating, it’s like they have a mind of their own! They seem to sprout from carnivals, thoughtful relatives, and who knows where else. For kids with vivid imaginations who love giving names to each cuddly friend, parting ways can be quite the challenge. That’s where the ‘animal zoo’ comes in – a simple, open box with sturdy elastic cables forming the framework. The best part? It’s easy to gaze upon all the furry residents inside.
When it’s time to introduce a new arrival or say goodbye to an old friend, the bars effortlessly slide aside. Adding a personal touch and dubbing it a ‘zoo’ might just spark your little one’s excitement about organizing their menagerie.
Slide-Out Under-the-Bed Storage
When space is scarce, every inch counts. In compact rooms, clever storage solutions are key to maximizing available space. Under-bed drawers offer an ingenious way to utilize the often-wasted space beneath beds. Opt for a bed frame that comes equipped with built-in drawers or consider a trundle bed sans mattress to create ample storage opportunities.
The design’s true brilliance lies in its thoughtful inclusion of internal containers within the drawers, allowing for effortless toy categorization and quick retrieval when your child is ready to play.
The Peek-a-Boo Toy Sack
The concept of using small bags with windows to organize toys is a game-changer for parents. These simple containers allow children to effortlessly gather their playthings and store them away. The transparent window facilitates easy identification of the contents within each bag, making it a breeze to find specific toys. One of the greatest advantages of these bags is their versatility – they come in various sizes, catering to different types of toys.
For instance, you might need a larger one for trains and tracks, while smaller ones would be ideal for delicate items like tea sets. Taking it a step further, consider creating ‘swoop bags’ that unfold into a circular surface, perfect for imaginative play. When cleanup time arrives, simply place all the toys on the circle and then use the strings to swoop them up neatly.
The Royal Toy Box
Imagine your little princess having her own special spot where she can store her favorite toys and snuggle up with a good book or share whispers with her best friends. This enchanting toy chest boasts a top that opens up for easy storage, while the plush cushion on top invites cozy moments. The delightful color palette and whimsical design will beautifully complement any princess-themed bedroom, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere that’s sure to delight your little royalty.
Baskets of Toys
While wire baskets might typically be used to display blooming flowers, they can also serve as an effective way to store toys. Their open design allows for easy installation on walls using nails, but they can just as easily be removed for playtime.
The small covers at the bottom prevent toys from falling out, and labels facilitate sorting – although many parents find it helpful to impose a limit by only allowing their child to play with one basket at a time, thereby keeping the mess under control.
Wall of Cubes
Imagine a storage solution where every available inch is utilized to create a harmonious haven for your child’s treasures. In this scenario, cube storage units take center stage, transforming an entire wall – or even multiple walls – into a neatly organized space that efficiently stores toys of all shapes and sizes. The flexibility of these cubes allows you to categorize games, larger toys, and smaller items with ease, using separate compartments for delicate parts.
As the unique color scheme of this storage system adds visual appeal, it’s clear that cube storage units offer an unparalleled solution for toy organization, making it a must-have for any parent seeking to maintain a sense of calm in their home.
Labeled Beach Bags
Imagine taking the concept of personalized tote bags to the next level by using their customization options to label the toys that go inside. By having the company embroider your toy names on the bag, you can create a unique and practical storage solution for your little one’s playthings. For younger children who are still learning to read, color-coding the bags with blocks in blue, dolls in red, and so on, can make it easier for them to identify which toys belong together.
To keep these mini toy boxes out of the way yet easily accessible, consider hanging them from the back of a door using a sturdy hanger that can support the weight of the bag filled with toys.
The Toy Hotel
Transform your child’s playroom into a tidy haven with this clever DIY toy organization idea, perfect for kids who have accumulated a large collection of a specific type of toy. The concept is straightforward: cut PVC pipes into desired lengths and glue them together within a wooden storage box. Add a splash of color by painting the ends, and you’ve got a functional and visually appealing storage solution.
Originally designed to corral Tsum Tsum toys, this clever hack can also be used for stuffed animals, toy cars, or Barbie dolls. The versatility of PVC pipes allows you to choose a style that seamlessly fits the toys you wish to store.
Mine and Yours Toy Storage
A versatile toy organization solution that seamlessly integrates with your home décor is perfect for families with multiple children. Building upon the cube-style toy organizer concept, this idea incorporates larger bins at the base. What sets it apart from other storage solutions is the vibrant color scheme on the back wall, which adds a playful touch. The primary white exterior provides a clean backdrop, while the colored insides allow kids to identify their designated shelves.
Simply assign each child a unique color and tailor the design to your family’s size – making this a thoughtful and practical solution for keeping toys organized.
Our Favorite Farmhouse Baskets and Bins to buy on Amazon
When it comes to home organization, having the right storage solutions can make all the difference. From classic cotton baskets to modern wire crates, there are countless options to choose from. For a touch of rustic charm, consider vintage crates or wooden crates, which can add a unique aesthetic to any room. Alternatively, opt for more functional choices like gray baskets or 4-tin organizers, designed specifically with storage in mind.
Whatever your style or need, it’s clear that there’s something for everyone on this list, featuring items #1-15: cotton basket, storage crates, gray basket, wire basket, storage bin, whitewash crates, vintage crate, 4-tin organizer, large basket, woven basket, 3-tier metal basket, utensil caddy, woven basket, wooden crates, and galvanized bin.
Animals Hanging Around
Transforming an often underutilized corner space into a vibrant display area is a clever way to repurpose the space. A colorful toy net can be easily mounted and serves as a practical storage solution for stuffed animals, catering to the needs of tweens and teens who crave a balance between nostalgia and maturity.
By offering a range of styles and colors, it’s effortless to tailor these nets to fit any room’s unique aesthetic, allowing you to inject personality into the space without sacrificing functionality.
Simple and Inexpensive
When it comes to finding easy kid’s toy storage solutions on a budget, Pinterest is often a go-to destination for inspiration. However, sometimes simplicity and affordability win out over fancy toy organizer ideas. In this case, plastic storage drawers are a great option. Available in a range of sizes and configurations, they’re reasonably priced and can be tailored to your specific needs.
Before making a purchase, consider what you need to store – will the smaller drawers suffice or do you require more spacious containers? Additionally, keep in mind that heavy items may cause warping, making them difficult to use. With these factors in mind, you can find a practical and cost-effective solution for keeping your kids’ toys organized.
Reading Bench Boxes
Transforming a child’s room into a cozy sanctuary requires careful planning, and maximizing storage space is key. A thoughtful addition like a bench with built-in cubbies can encourage kids to tidy up by providing a convenient place for their favorite toys and accessories. Look for a design that incorporates small drawers or compartments, perfect for storing stuffed animals, doll clothes, or other lightweight items.
This will not only help keep the room organized but also empower your little ones to develop good habits by letting them open and close the drawers themselves. Just be mindful of the size and shape of the storage compartments, ensuring they align with the bench’s overall aesthetic.
A New Twist on a Classic Idea
The concept of toy boxes is a timeless favorite among kids, and for good reason. Who wouldn’t want to clean up and simply toss all their toys into one convenient container? The LEGO-inspired design of this particular box takes it to the next level, making cleanup just that much more enjoyable.
What’s more, the lid of this toy chest boasts an added safety feature: a small gap around its edges, which eliminates the risk of little fingers getting pinched when the lid closes – a thoughtful touch indeed.
Outdoor Ball Storage
When it comes to outdoor toy organization, it’s easy to overlook the need for creative storage solutions. However, a well-designed container can make all the difference in keeping playtime tidy and enjoyable for kids. A great outside toy organizer should strike a balance between ample storage space and easy access. Take this innovative ball storage box, for instance. Its stretchy rope sides allow children to grab their favorite ball without having to dig through the entire collection.
The top-loading design also makes cleanup a breeze, with kids able to simply toss in any toys they’re done playing with. Additionally, the side space is cleverly utilized as storage for smaller items like bike helmets and balls, keeping everything neatly organized and within reach.
Making the Old New
Transforming an old, unused dollhouse into a kid-friendly toy storage space is a simple and creative way to repurpose household items. Start by sourcing a dollhouse that’s either been outgrown or found at a garage sale or flea market. With some minor modifications, you can turn this vintage find into a unique and functional shelving unit for toys, books, or other knick-knacks.
Consider giving the dollhouse a fresh coat of paint to give it a cohesive look, and then get creative with rearranging the wooden rooms to create new nooks and crannies. This clever DIY project can also be adapted to include additional features, like a cozy cat bed that allows your feline friend to bask in the sun. With a little imagination, an old dollhouse can become a treasured part of your home’s decor.
Squirreling Toys Away
To spark enthusiasm in toy clean-up among your little ones, consider presenting them with visually appealing storage containers. The right bin can make all the difference, as kids will be more likely to tidy up if it’s a character they love. Squirrel and bear bins are great options, but you can also opt for ones featuring their favorite characters or animals. If you have multiple children or a diverse toy collection, consider investing in separate bins for each child or type of toy.
Over-the-Door Barbie Holder
For parents of young girls who adore dolls, it’s a familiar scenario: a sea of Barbie dolls scattered throughout the house. But fear not! A simple hanging shoe holder can become an instant solution to this common problem. By dividing the space into individual compartments, each one perfectly sized for holding a single doll, you’ll make it easy for your little girl to keep her collection organized and accessible.
The benefits are twofold: not only will you no longer have to wade through a doll-filled landscape every time you want to use the living room or playroom, but your child will also develop the habit of putting away her toys after playtime, making it simpler for her to find the specific doll she wants to play with at any given moment.
Toy Storage Cubbies
Transforming your living space into a cozy haven for playtime, this ingenious storage solution boasts cube-shaped shelves that effortlessly accommodate an assortment of toys. The crisp white hue ensures seamless integration with most home décors, making it an ideal choice for those seeking toy organizer ideas for the lounge.
The chalkboard labels on each shelf offer unparalleled flexibility, permitting effortless rebranding as needed to reflect changes in your little one’s interests or play preferences.
Personalised Toy Box
For a clutter-free playtime experience, look no further than Not On The High Street’s adorable toy box with wheels. This thoughtful storage solution is designed to keep each child’s toys organized and easy to access. By purchasing one for each of your little ones, you’ll be teaching them important skills like responsibility and tidiness. The best part? This personalized toy box features a convenient handle on the side, making it simple to move around as needed.
Say goodbye to messy playtime clean-ups – with its smooth-rolling wheels, this toy box can be easily rearranged without disturbing the toys inside.
Peg Board Perfection
Peg boards are a storage solution par excellence, boasting hundreds of holes that make organizing a cinch. The versatility of these boards lies in their ability to accommodate a wide range of items, as long as you can hang them. Hooks can be inserted into any of the numerous holes, allowing for effortless reconfiguration to suit items of varying sizes. This peg board is ideal for storing hats, clothes, and smaller containers filled with toys or craft supplies.
While it may not be suitable for heavy-duty applications like holding blocks, it’s a great way to keep smaller items organized and within easy reach.
Doll Clothes Closet
Transforming an old bookshelf into a doll clothes closet is a great way to keep your little one’s wardrobe organized without sacrificing storage space. Simply remove the shelves and install poles along the inside, allowing you to hang doll clothes using specially-purchased hangers or even clothespins for items like pants. To add extra functionality, reserve some of those shoe boxes on the bottom for storing shoes and accessories.
This creative solution not only keeps things tidy but also makes it easy for your child to find the outfit she wants, encouraging imaginative play and dress-up fun.
Super Toy Box
Transforming a plain toy box into a personalized treasure trove for your little one doesn’t have to break the bank or require advanced artistic skills. Consider commissioning a custom design featuring their favorite superhero, cartoon character, or beloved animal. A Spiderman-inspired toy box, for example, could be a hit with young fans of the web-slinging hero.
Alternatively, you could opt for a more subtle approach by painting the box in your child’s favorite colors or incorporating a simple yet meaningful design element. Whatever your approach, the goal is to make the toy box a source of excitement and joy for your child.
Built-Ins for Play
When decorating a playroom in an older home, one often-overlooked resource is the built-in shelving units. With a little creativity, these units can be transformed into kid-friendly toy storage that seamlessly integrates with your home’s aesthetic. A bold paint job on the shelves can add visual interest and create a striking contrast with the surrounding walls.
One of the benefits of utilizing built-in shelving is its elevated position, which not only keeps messy toys out of reach for young children but also provides a sense of control for parents who can carefully curate which toys are available for play. To further enhance organization, consider adding smaller plastic shelves on top of the built-ins to corral smaller toys and keep them tidy.
Tables and Boxes for Fun and Storage
Imagine a space where kids can store their toys and let their creativity shine. This DIY project is perfect for families seeking innovative toy storage solutions. By lining up three low tables, you create a multi-functional area for storing larger toys while still allowing kids to play on the table itself. To add an extra layer of functionality, place boxes on wheels that can be easily moved in and out as needed.
The cherry on top is the addition of chalkboard paint, enabling youngsters to express themselves artistically without worrying about damaging your home’s aesthetic.
Storage Buckets
While traditional canvas cube organizers are popular, there’s no rule saying you have to stick to those. Many other types of storage containers can fit snugly within the cubes, offering a fresh and creative way to keep toys organized. For instance, metal buckets or small plastic containers can be stacked inside the cube to create a one-of-a-kind toy organizer that complements your home’s aesthetic.
Yes, you might need to accept some toys peeking out of the top, but many people find this minor compromise is well worth it for the unique look and added storage capacity.
Milk Crate Bonanza
By reimagining the humble milk crate, this DIY project brings back the nostalgia of resourceful living. Gone are the days of simply stacking them on the floor – instead, we’re mounting them to the wall in a way that’s both functional and visually striking. The real showstopper is how the crates have been deliberately positioned at varying angles, resulting in an eclectic display that’s equal parts bookshelf and decorative feature.
Some are tilted just so to accommodate books or knick-knacks, while others take on a more playful bucket-like quality. The overall effect is a one-of-a-kind installation that adds a touch of whimsy to any room.
Double-Duty Storage
In the quest for effective toy storage solutions, it’s not uncommon to seek out ideas that serve multiple purposes. One clever approach is to incorporate a loft bed into your design. Not only do they provide an elevated sleeping area, but they also offer additional storage space underneath the bed frame. In this family’s setup, step-like shelving has been used to prop up the bed, creating a makeshift staircase.
The plastic buckets suspended from the shelves serve as toy storage containers, while the ‘steps’ themselves become a fun and accessible means for children to climb into bed. Additionally, the design accommodates smaller storage containers and allows for stashing of extra items behind one of the stair sets.
Unique Floating Shelves
While floating shelves often evoke a sense of monotony, this creative approach proves that they can be anything but dull. A symmetrical arrangement of O- and plus-shaped shelves in vibrant hues adds visual interest to the wall. The key to making this design successful is the decision to cover the entire wall with these colorful shelves. What’s noteworthy is that each shelf doesn’t carry a heavy load, making it an ideal solution for younger children whose toys consist of fewer pieces.
For instance, this design excels at displaying books, stuffed animals, or a few toy cars, but it might not be suitable for storing larger items like LEGOs or doll accessories.
Toy Boxes for Grandma’s
Etsy. com is home to an innovative upcycled toy box project that transforms an old wagon into a unique storage solution. While its functionality may be limited, the finished product’s aesthetic appeal ensures it will make a charming addition to any room, whether in the living room or garage. Nevertheless, due to its size and moderate storage capacity, this design might not be the most practical choice for households overwhelmed by toys.
Conversely, it would suit a grandparent’s residence perfectly, where a child typically has a few treasured playthings.
A Child’s Work Bench
The concept of ‘play’ being a child’s work is beautifully exemplified in this innovative toy organizer from Pinterest. com. Designed specifically for LEGO enthusiasts, the setup features ample space to showcase creations at the top, accompanied by numerous bins for sorting and categorizing pieces, as well as a spacious table for building and imagination.
However, its versatility doesn’t stop there – it can easily be repurposed into a crafting station or doll play area if your child’s interests lie elsewhere. Additionally, it serves as a functional homework desk for kids to complete their schoolwork, making it an excellent solution for transforming the old playroom into a multipurpose space that caters to your child’s evolving needs.
Sailing Off to Play
This versatile toy box is designed with a nautical theme that’s both stylish and inviting for children. Its boat-shaped design features an easy-to-climb-on structure, perfect for imaginative play. As you watch your little ones engage in swashbuckling adventures, you’ll be pleased to know that the box also serves as a functional storage solution for toys and treasures. When it’s time to tidy up, simply lift the lid and have the kids help sort through their ‘booty’.
To keep things fresh and exciting, consider periodically swapping out stored toys to create a sense of discovery each time they open the box.
Another Doll Closet Idea
One of the most creative ways to repurpose an old bookshelf is by converting it into a storage space for dolls’ clothing and accessories. This versatile project can be tailored to fit different doll sizes, as seen in this Pinterest image where the hanging racks have been adjusted to accommodate longer evening gowns and larger dolls.
The addition of a lower shelf provides a natural separation between storage containers, featuring small drawers that are ideal for storing tiny items like shoes or jewelry. These compact compartments are far more effective than larger boxes at keeping accessories organized and easily accessible. If you don’t happen to have an abundance of doll clothes to make this idea worthwhile, consider applying the same creative thinking to a child-sized dress-up trunk.
Cube Storage Strikes Again
The cube storage units are a favorite among parents when it comes to organizing kids’ toys. One of their biggest advantages is their versatility – by using different colored containers, you can easily match them to any home decor style. For instance, the pink cubes used here would be perfect for a girl’s room, but swapping them out for blue or green ones could make them fit seamlessly into any other space.
What’s also noteworthy about this setup is how it effectively utilizes the wall space and table area. The child-sized table provides a designated play zone for activities like coloring, tea parties, or building with blocks, while containing the toys in one place – making cleanup a breeze.
Desk with Toy Storage
This unconventional children’s desk deviates from traditional designs by incorporating a toy chest into its top. Unlike standard desks that primarily focus on holding office supplies and papers, this innovative design caters to young minds’ love of storage and organization. The opening top allows kids to stash toys like balls, trucks, or dinosaurs, making it an ideal space for creative play.
Additionally, the separate compartment enables children to engage in art or writing activities while keeping their favorite toys within easy reach.
Toy Baskets in the Air
This innovative toy organization concept defies conventional wisdom by leveraging the often-untapped space at the ceiling. A system of pulleys suspends baskets above the floor, creating a unique and dynamic storage solution. When it’s time to play, children simply release the ropes, allowing the basket to gently descend back down to ground level. The wall markings serve as a visual guide, clearly indicating which toys are stored in each basket and how to properly secure them for everyday use.
To ensure safe operation, it’s essential to stock the baskets with lightweight toys and maintain constant supervision when raising or lowering the baskets.
A Pyramid of Buckets
This unique toy organizer concept boasts a visually appealing design that seamlessly integrates into your home’s aesthetic. The vibrant buckets feature pre-drilled holes on top, cleverly utilized to secure them together. Notably, when implementing this idea, it’s essential to be mindful of the bucket’s angle, as this can inadvertently cause toys to fall out. To avoid this, select items carefully and place similar types in each bucket.
Alternatively, consider using separate buckets for easy toy retrieval and re-storage, as exemplified by the single orange bucket.
Simple Toy Organization
While some may think this toy chest is straightforward, its simplicity is actually what makes it effective. The large, primary storage compartment at the base provides ample space for larger playthings, while the smaller buckets above serve as convenient organizers for smaller toys that your child can quickly browse. By placing books at the top, you’re also promoting a love of reading and encouraging early literacy skills.
Plus, the wheels on the bottom box enable effortless retrieval of toys, allowing your little one to easily slide out and explore her favorite playthings.
Craft Material Organization
When a creative youngster is part of your household, it’s not uncommon to feel like a container is needed to keep their imagination contained. However, with access to all the necessary materials and supplies readily available, your little artist will have an easier time expressing themselves. One simple solution is to use small boxes, easily created by repurposing old cereal or pasta containers, which can be transformed into mini art stations.
By attaching a magnet to the back of each box, you can hang them on a wall, allowing your child to effortlessly take down the box they need when inspiration strikes.
Simple Bed Sling
By attaching a simple sling to the end of your child’s bed, you can provide her with a convenient spot to store small items she may need. This could include a favorite stuffed animal, the book she’s currently reading, and an extra blanket or two. Although the space may be limited, it’s a practical solution that makes the most of what would otherwise be an unused area.
This alternative bedside storage option is particularly well-suited for those who don’t have room for a traditional bedside table.
44 Ideas for Keeping to Kids’ Toys at Bay
When selecting the perfect toy organizer for your home, it’s essential to consider both the aesthetic appeal and functionality that meets your child’s evolving needs. While some families have dedicated spaces for toys, others may require more flexible solutions for dual-purpose rooms or unexpected guests. As children grow, their toy preferences shift, too.
Babies and toddlers often require larger storage solutions for bulky playthings, while older kids demand systems that can contain smaller, more intricate items. A well-designed toy organizer should adapt to these changing needs, allowing you to reassess and adjust as necessary. Beyond aesthetics, practicality is crucial when choosing a toy storage solution. Will your child actually use the setup once it’s in place? Does the design require excessive effort to maintain order?
Do you want something that allows your child to take ownership of their space or prefer a more meticulous approach? Ultimately, finding the best toy organizer for your home requires careful consideration and planning. By taking the time to think through your needs and preferences, you’ll be able to create a system that not only delights your child but also keeps your home tidy and welcoming.
