Best toy storage ideas
When your child’s playroom or bedroom looks like an obstacle course of teddy bears and action figures, it’s time to invest in toy storage. It’s easy to toss toys in a big storage bin, but it’s not the most exciting option. Instead, opt for toy storage ideas that children will love.
From kid-friendly organizers to character-themed totes, there are several storage options that are fun and colorful, and they may even inspire children to keep toys tidy and organized.
Key considerations for toy storage
What to do before purchasing toy storage
Before you embark on a toy storage project and start stocking up on bins and totes, take a step back and assess the current toy situation.
If children have outgrown certain toys and no longer play with them, pare down the collection by rehoming these toys. They can be passed on to younger family and friends or donated to local charities.
Determine the best place to implement a toy organization system. In some homes, it may be a child’s bedroom or playroom, and in others, it could be in the living room. Once you’ve selected a location, take measurements to narrow your options to storage solutions that fit in the space.
Consider portable toy storage options, especially if children play with toys in more than one place inside or outside the home. Some storage totes have handles for easy carrying, whereas others may have wheels.
How do I organize toys of different sizes?
Most toy collections include toys of various sizes, ranging from tiny Lego figurines to deluxe playsets. As a result, you may need more than one type of toy storage. Barbie accessory collections with a multitude of tiny items, for example, may be well-served by small clear storage containers. Bulkier toys like action figures or toy cars are often stored in deep baskets or storage bins.
How to personalize toy storage for kids
Personalizing toy storage is a fun and practical arts and crafts project because the finished product will be used on a daily basis. Classic wooden toy chests, for example, can be painted with fun colors and designs. Ordinary plastic storage bins can be decorated with stickers, chalk paint or permanent markers.
How much you can expect to spend on toy storage
Most smaller toy storage solutions, like totes and bins, cost $25 and below. More involved storage products, including bin systems or storage tote sets, run $30-$80. If you need shelving units or toy storage chests, these typically cost $80-$200.
12 best toy storage ideas that children will love
Roomganize Extra-Large Animal Bean Bag Chair Organizer: available at Amazon
A friendly and cuddly solution, this extra-large animal bean bag chair cover is ideal for storing children’s favorite plush critters. The cover is also suitable for holding soft items like blankets and linens.
The New York Doll Collection Doll Storage Carrier: available at Amazon
While this 18-inch doll carrier is designed for travel, it’s actually the perfect size for storing plenty of doll clothes and accessories. The soft case has a secure double-zipper closure and an outer name tag pocket.
Hot Wheels 48-Car Storage Case: available at Amazon
For ever-growing toy car collections, this Hot Wheels storage case is a smart choice. It holds 48 cars and has a compact suitcase-inspired design, making it a travel-friendly option for on-the-go fun.
KidCo Bath Toy Organizer Basket: available at Amazon
Kids who love their bath toys will like this convenient organizer shelf that keeps toys within reach. It has an adjustable design that fits most tubs, and its slotted sides allow water to drain after bathtime.
WingsShop Clear Divided Storage Container: available at Amazon
From Legos to Barbie shoes, this 36-grid organizer is an easy way to keep tiny toys and accessories organized. It has a modular design and comes with adhesive labels, which makes it easy to customize organization.
Step 2 2-in-1 Toy Box & Art Lid: available at Amazon and Wayfair
If you’re looking for traditional toy storage, this plastic toy box has several kid-safe features, including rounded edges with no-pinch components. The box has a removable lid suitable for coloring and doodling projects.
FANKANG Collapsible Storage Basket: available at Amazon
The ultra-deep design of this colorful storage hamper works for holding bulkier toys, such as fire trucks or Nerf blasters. It has a lightweight design and handles, making it easy for kids to carry from room to room.
Amazon Basics Over-the-Door Hanging Shoe Organizer: available at Amazon
If you need to organize large Barbie collections, this 20-pocket shoe organizer gives each doll a room of its own. The organizer, which has mesh pockets for full visibility, can store doll outfits and accessories as well.
Lusso Gear Car Seat Organizer: available at Amazon
This spacious backseat organizer makes car trips more enjoyable by keeping toys within reach.
It features two large main compliments as well as a few smaller ones to hold markers. When you need to put it away, the organizer folds up into a compact square for easy storage.
YourPartyFavors Large Loot Drop Box: available at Amazon
Look no further for a fun way to store video games and accessories. This 14 x 14-inch loot box is made with durable non-woven materials, making the box lightweight and easy to move. The box can be purchased in multiples to accommodate larger gaming collections.
Creative QT SlideAway Toy Storage Organizer and Mat: available at Amazon
Building blocks hold strong as favorite toys, but storing them comes with unique challenges. Fortunately, this nifty bin and mat design makes setup and cleanup quick and easy. The organizer is backed by a lifetime guarantee.
Humble Crew Toy Storage Organizer: available at Amazon and Bed Bath & Beyond
Keep toys visible and accessible with this toy organizer with bins. The open-storage design includes 12 plastic bins that can be removed and rearranged. It can be used for storing toys as well as books and arts and crafts materials.
Sian Babish is a writer for BestReviews. BestReviews is a product review company with a singular mission: to help simplify your purchasing decisions and save you time and money.
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