Saturday, January 10, 2015

Storage Solutions For Every Toy You Own

Organizing your toys is all about finding the right balance between keeping your children’s toys accessible for play, but still neat and out of the way when they need to be. Keeping the house neat creates a calm environment that any parent can appreciate. Whether you have an entire playroom dedicated to toys or you are short on space, these storage solutions will help keep your home organized and mess free.

1.  Bookshelves

A solid bookshelf is a must have in every home. In addition to providing a home to your children’s beloved books, bookshelves also give you space to organize a variety of toys. Line shelves with trucks and trains or use a bookshelf as a base to house bins and baskets to match your existing decor.

2. Hanging Shoe Holder

Whether you are storing Barbie dolls or Superheroes, shoe holders can keep toys separated and save on space. Shoe holders can be hung on the back side of a door, inside a closet, or even on the wall where small pieces can be collected. Often made of vinyl, these organizers make it easy to find your toys and can be wiped clean.

3. Canvas Bins

Canvas bins come in a variety of patterns and sizes. Larger bins, like this I Think I Can Mega Sorter from the Land of Nod, work great on the floor while smaller bins can be used to line shelves. As an added bonus, canvas is a durable and washable material that will long outlast your children’s toys.

4. Drawer Cart

When you have toys that are only played with on occasion, rolling drawer carts are the way to store them. Typically made with a clear plastic, you will be able to easily see what you are storing and move it to wherever your child is playing. These carts are great for storing arts and crafts or homework supplies. Bed, Bath, and Beyond has even taken the rolling drawer cart a step further with a funky colored, steel cart that is built to last.  5. Coffee Tables with Storage

When you are short on space, it makes sense to start getting creative with your furniture and finding pieces that can double as storage. Coffee tables with built in storage space are the perfect blend of practical and pretty. Toys will be accessible for the kids without being an eyesore.  

6. Plastic Storage Containers

Plastic storage containers come in every shape and size and can be used to store any type of toy you may have. Containers with lids can be purchased to fit in the closet, on shelves, or even under the bed. This is also the best way to store anything long term, like seasonal toys, as the airtight lid keeps out moisture.

7. Beds with Storage Drawers

Finding space for toys can feel like an impossible task when you are short on space. Much like a coffee table, a platform or trundle bed is a great way to make your furniture pull double duty. Built in storage drawers used for toy storage keeps the clutter off the bedroom floor (and out of the rest of your house!)  

8. Toy Chest

Tried and true, toy chests are still a popular option for storing your children’s toys. Nowadays, you can often find these boxes in heavy duty plastic or solid wood. Large and spacious, they remain the ultimate catchall for every toy.


By Kate Mattiace