10 Tips to Tame the Toy Room Chaos

Why a Tidy Toy Room Matters

We all know that kids love their toys, but when those toys take over every inch of their room, it can become a source of stress for both children and parents (I’m very sure my blood pressure shot up high too). A messy toy room not only looks chaotic, but it can also stifle creativity and playtime. So, here are 10 fun tips (that I have tried!) to help you counter the clutter and create an organized space where your kids can thrive!

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1. Decluttering: The First Step to Success

Before you can organize, you need to declutter. You also cannot, shall not, will not get too attached to the items (I admit, I have this problem too). Get your kids involved in the fun process! Have them select their favorite toys, and create a “keep” pile. Anything that hasn’t been played with in the last six months? Time to let it go! Donate or sell what you can and trash what’s broken. I usually pass down good clothes and toys to my younger nieces or nephews. I feel that it is more meaningful than throwing them away.

2. Create Defined Zones

Having distinct areas for different types of toys can greatly help in organizing the room. Designate a zone for action figures, another for puzzles, and even a spot for arts and crafts. This not only makes it easier for kids to find what they want but also for them to put things back in their place. Even if you have a small room or space like I do, it is still achievable!

3. Use Clear Bins for Easy Visibility

Clear storage bins are your best friends when it comes to keeping a toy room tidy. They allow children to see what’s inside without having to open every single box. Label them according to toy types, making it fun for the kids to return everything to its rightful home. I would suggest getting different sizes (if you have the space capacity).

• Get a clear bin that can fit into cubbies like the Ikea Kallax shelving unit. A plus point if the bin comes with a lid that allows it to be stackable.
• Consider getting a storage with tray where you can place papers, books AND stationeries! I love this Citylife Plastic Storage Box with Removable Tray. It is so versatile, you can also turn it into a craft box!
• Another favorite toy storage for me is a clear storage drawer. I would place them on shelfs that doesn’t require bending down and having a drawer system just makes it look neat and organized.

4. Implement a Toy Rotation System

One of the coolest tips for maintaining a mess-free toy room is to rotate toys. Keep half of the toys packed away and switch them out every few weeks. This technique keeps playtime fresh and exciting while preventing the room from getting overwhelmed with toys. But this tip can only work with smaller children (it didn’t really work with my daughter when she was 5 as she remembers all her toys and kept asking for them).

5. Encourage Daily Cleanup

Make cleanup a part of the daily routine. I set up a chore planner for the kids and paste it where they can see once they reach home. You can set a timer for 10 minutes and challenge your kids to see how many toys they can put away in that time. Turning cleaning into a fun game will make them more likely to participate. 👉 Click here to download the free printable chore chart (PDF)

(If you have trouble downloading it, do reach out to me at adaywithadelin@gmail.com)

6. Involve Your Kids in Organization

Get kids invested in the organization process! Let them decorate their bins or help determine where things should go. When they have ownership over the process, they’re more likely to take responsibility for keeping things organized. This may come with a challenge. I have a son who was OK to get rid of some stuffs while organizing. On the other hand, his younger sister has some toy attachment issues. While she has developed some organization skills, she also refused to let go of unused toys and stationeries. Motherhood is all about patience.

7. Use Vertical Space Wisely

Don’t forget about the walls! Install shelves or pegboards for extra storage. This allows for fantastic display opportunities for trophies or their favorite toys and keeps the floor space clear for playing. Consider hanging some PVC clear storage bags for Legos or puzzles. They are also a great system for toy rotation and you can just carry them easily everywhere you go.

8. Create a Fun Playmat

A colorful playmat can double as a toy storage solution. When playtime is done, simply gather all the toys into the playmat and pull the drawstring to close it like this storage toy box. It’s an easy way to manage clutter and keeps things looking tidy.

9. Limit New Toys on Birthdays and Holidays

Encourage family and friends to buy experiences rather than toys. Less is always more! This will not only declutter but also teach kids the value of quality over quantity.

10. Regularly Review and Refresh

Finally, make a habit of reviewing the toy collection every few months. This will help prevent clutter from creeping back in and allows you to keep the toy room enjoyable and organized!

Remember, a clean toy room isn’t just about appearances; it’s about creating a space that inspires creativity and play. Implement these tips, and both you and your children will enjoy the difference!