Cluttered homes with kids’ toys and books scattered everywhere can easily overwhelm even the most organised parents. With so many toys accumulating over time—soft toys, stuffed animals, art supplies, or craft supplies—the challenge of keeping everything neat can feel never-ending.
However, with some planning and the right storage solutions, you can regain control of your space. Here are 10 clever storage hacks for kids’ toys and books to help you declutter your home and create a functional environment.
Let's Get Straight to the Point
Managing kids’ toys and books can be overwhelming, but you can easily declutter your home with clever storage solutions. Start by decluttering and donating unused toys, then use storage bins and containers to organise the remaining toys.
Maximise floor space with furniture offering built-in storage, like benches and bunk beds with drawers. Get creative by using under-bed and under-stair spaces for hidden storage. For books, install floating shelves or low-shelf units for easy access. Finally, the organisation should be maintained by labelling storage bins and establishing a clean-up routine. These strategies will help you maintain a tidy and functional living space.
Assessing and Decluttering
Decluttering and Donating Unwanted Toys
A significant portion of toy clutter can be reduced by donating or discarding items your child no longer plays with. Here are some tips to help you declutter effectively:
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Sort through toys: Set aside time every few months to review your child’s toys, books, and craft supplies. Put anything unused, too small, or broken in a pile to donate or throw away.
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Establish a "one-in, one-out" rule: To maintain control over the number of toys entering your home, consider adopting a "one-in, one-out" policy. For every new toy your child receives, please encourage them to donate an older one.
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Involve your kids: If they are old enough, involve them in decision-making. This can help them learn about giving and reduce the number of toys that occupy storage space.
Once the excess is cleared out, you can focus on implementing smart storage solutions for the remaining toys.
Toy Storage Ideas
Storage Bins and Containers for Kids' Toys
Storage bins are essential for keeping kids’ toys organised and easily accessible. These storage solutions come in various sizes and materials to suit your space and style:
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Plastic bins: Clear plastic tubs allow you to quickly see the contents, whether it’s Lego storage or art supplies. Opt for stackable containers to save space.
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Fabric bins: Soft fabric bins are perfect for smaller or plush toys. They can be placed in open cubbies or on wall-mounted shelves and are lightweight enough for children to pull out when they want to play.
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Matching baskets: Stylish baskets with matching colours and patterns can keep stuffed animals or smaller toys organised in a playroom.
Designate bins for different types of toys, such as one for stuffed animals, one for toy cars, and another for craft supplies. Labelling these bins will make it easier to maintain order.
Utilising Space
Maximising Floor Space with Storage Furniture
Furniture with built-in storage can save storage space and help you keep toys organised. Consider these smart storage solutions:
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Storage benches: A bench with hidden storage underneath can hold toys, games, and art supplies. It’s a great addition to your family room and doubles as a seating area.
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Toy closet: If you have a closet in the playroom or kids’ bedroom, maximise the space by installing shelves or using clear bins to organise toys. A dedicated toy closet creates a hidden storage space for toys when not in use.
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Bunk beds with storage: Bunk beds are ideal for small rooms as they allow for storage underneath. Consider bunk beds with built-in drawers for storing books, toys, or clothes.
Creative Storage Solutions
Sometimes, the best toy storage ideas come from thinking outside the box. There are creative ways to organise kids' toys and books, from under-bed storage to floating shelves, without taking up valuable floor space.
Under-Stair and Under-Bed Storage for Kids Toys
If your home has under-utilised spaces, such as under stairs or the bed, these areas can be repurposed as clever storage spots.
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Under-bed storage: Use bins, drawers, or bags under the bed to store toys, books, or extra blankets. This hidden storage area is perfect for larger outdoor toys or soft toys that occupy more room.
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Under-stair storage: If you have stairs with space underneath, you can convert this area into an efficient storage solution. Use it for a toy closet or install open shelving units to store books and smaller toys.
These storage spaces allow you to keep things out of sight, maintaining a neat and organised home.
Organising Specific Toys and Items
Now that you have a handle on overall toy organisation, it’s time to think about organising specific types of toys. Different types of toys require different types of storage solutions.
Book Storage and Display
Books are often some of the most treasured items in a child’s room, but they can quickly accumulate and cause clutter. Here are some storage ideas to keep kids' books organised:
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Floating shelves: Install floating shelves in your kids’ playroom or bedroom to display books. This keeps books within easy reach and adds a decorative touch to the room.
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Low-shelf units: For younger children, low shelves are perfect for easy access to their favourite books. You can organise books by size, genre, or theme, allowing your child to select their reading material.
For an additional touch, display some books with the covers facing outward to create a fun, easy-to-browse bookshelf for your little one.
Labeling and Maintenance
The key to keeping toys organised is maintaining order once everything is stored. Labelling bins and shelves can help your kids know where each toy belongs and encourage them to clean up after themselves.
Maintaining a Clutter-Free Home with Toy Storage
Once you’ve found storage solutions that work for your home, it’s essential to maintain a clutter-free environment. Consider these strategies:
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Labelling storage bins: Label each bin with a picture or a word to help kids understand where toys go. This is especially helpful if your child is still learning to read.
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Create a clean-up routine: Set aside time each day or week for toy organisation. Make cleaning up part of the routine, becoming a habit for you and your child.
Maintaining an organised space will prevent the build-up of toy clutter and keep your home looking tidy.
Conclusion
Managing kids' toys and books doesn’t have to be a challenge. With the right storage solutions, you can create a clutter-free home where toys are easy to find, access, and put away. The possibilities are endless, from utilising floor space with storage furniture to creative solutions like under-bed and under-stair storage.
The key is to assess your needs, declutter regularly, and implement smart storage solutions that work for your space. With these clever storage hacks for kids toys and books, you can keep your kids' rooms organised and your home clutter-free, allowing more time to enjoy the toys and books your child loves.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Best Way to Declutter Kids’ Toys Before Storing Them?
To effectively declutter, assess each toy’s usefulness. Set aside time every few months to donate or discard broken or unused toys. Establish a "one-in, one-out" rule to prevent toy accumulation and involve your children in the decision-making process when appropriate.
How Can I Maximise Small Spaces for Toy Storage?
Make the most of every inch of available storage space by using furniture such as benches with hidden compartments, bunk beds with drawers, and installing shelves in closets or under beds.
What Are the Best Storage Solutions for Different Types of Toys?
Clear plastic or fabric bins should be used for smaller toys. Larger toys can be stored under the bed or in storage benches. Use matching baskets or dedicated toy boxes to organise stuffed animals and other soft toys.
How Can I Involve My Children in Keeping Their Toys Organised?
Involve your children by assigning them the responsibility of tidying up and labelling storage bins. Encourage them to pick up after playtime, creating a routine where they know exactly where everything belongs.
How Do I Store Books in a Way Both Functional and Stylish?
Use floating shelves to display books or install low-shelf units for easy access. For younger kids, consider shelving that allows them to pick books by theme or cover. Display books with their covers facing outward for a fun and interactive approach.
