Whether through a few too many well-meaning gifters or by your own hand, you may have reached a point where there are too many toys and something needs to be done. There are several benefits to downsizing and better storing your children’s toys, from encouraging creativity to simplifying your life. If this sounds good to you, here are some tried-and-true dos and don’ts to get you started.
DO:
Rotate toys
Consider packing away toys that aren’t played with as much. Every few weeks, make a point to rotate them back in and pack away another few toys. Make sure when you do this that you are involving your child in these decisions. According to Dr. Kim John Payne, “An avalanche of toys invites emotional disconnect and a sense of overwhelm.” Playful Learning actually has this down to a science, spinning off a ton of reasons you’re going to love it, including fewer sibling fights, easier cleanup, and deeper engagement with the toys that remain.
If you’re in need of storage for toys in rotation, TWO MEN AND A TRUCK® provides a variety of boxes ranging in size to fit any toy you’ve got!
Get crafty
Making toy storage into a DIY project has the added benefit of giving you a chance to get crafty. If you enjoy that sort of thing, this can be a fun activity you can even get the kids involved in. Bianca over at Cute DIY Projects shares more than 30 of her favorite toys storage ideas for crafty moms, including arty wooden crates, a toy box on wheels, and toy sacks for quick picking up on-the-go.
Upcycle household items
Repurpose used items around the home instead of throwing them away. Not only will this help get your toy situation in order, it’s good for the environment and saves you money. Common items to consider include planters, coffee tins, baby wipe containers, paint cans, and mason jars. Slap on some paint or fancy paper and you’ve got custom-made home storage without spending a bundle.
Get smart about space
Ottomans with hollowed out insides for storage are your best friend. Not only can they enhance the decorative appeal of the home, you also are maximizing your space. Using hanging storage is another way to maximize limited space. Combine your crafty and upcycling skills to deliver a triple threat of hanging toy storage that’s cute, crafty, and green!
DON’T:
Buy containers without planning
Before heading out and stocking up on containers, take inventory of what needs to be contained. For example, is it a small-toy situation that could use a sack? Are there too many stuffed animals, something a stuffed animal hammock could solve? Making a list and customizing your storage solutions will not just save you money, it will save you the insanity of having a bunch of unused containers floating around adding to the clutter.
Take a one-size-fits-all approach
Different containers serve different purposes. It’s a common mistake to buy a bunch of storage containers that are all the same size and use them for everything. Instead, try to diversify. Some popular examples of toy storage types include steel trunks and storage baskets. Wall organizers, hanging baskets, under-the-bed storage, and caddies also are popular choices.
Forget your audience
While organization is great, don’t forget your audience! When plotting your toy storage solutions, ensure the toys you want your children to access can be safely and easily accessed. In addition to considering physical constraints, think of ways to make it fun so that your kids will want to play along. This could be in the form of a storage crate or sack custom to each kid, or a chalkboard toy box they’ll want to use again and again!
Content developed in association with The Parham Group and Noah’s Ark Self Storage.
TWO MEN AND A TRUCK® 