Keeping a tidy toy room is a challenge most parents are familiar with, but it’s certainly not impossible! With the right storage solutions, you can transform a chaotic toy room into an organized, functional, and even stylish space. In this two-part guide, we’ll explore 17 smart toy room storage ideas that will inspire you to take control of the clutter while still allowing your little ones to have fun.
Whether you’re managing a small space or have a dedicated playroom, these toy storage hacks will help you keep everything in its place. Ready to get started? Let’s dive into Part 1, covering the first nine toy room storage ideas.
1. Cube Storage Shelves for Easy Sorting
Cube storage shelves are a staple for toy organization, and for a good reason. These shelves feature individual cubby holes that are perfect for organizing toys by category—think blocks in one cube, books in another, and action figures in yet another. The beauty of cube storage is its versatility and simplicity, making it an ideal solution for a modern toy room.
Why It Works: Cube storage helps to create a designated space for each type of toy, which makes it easier for kids (and adults!) to clean up after playtime. You can add baskets or bins to each cube to conceal toys and keep everything looking neat. Opt for colorful bins that match the room’s theme to add a fun touch.
Pro Tip: Use labeled bins to make it easy for your children to find and put away their toys. This not only helps keep the room tidy but also encourages kids to develop organizational habits early on.
Implementation Tip: When choosing cube storage, make sure to measure your space and determine the size you need. Many retailers offer modular options, so you can customize the shelves to fit your toy room perfectly.
2. Hanging Baskets for Vertical Space Utilization
Running out of floor space? Hanging baskets are a great way to use vertical space effectively, especially in smaller toy rooms. These baskets can be mounted on the wall or even hung from the ceiling, providing extra storage without taking up valuable floor space. They’re particularly useful for storing lightweight items like stuffed animals, dolls, or craft supplies.
Why It Works: By taking advantage of vertical space, hanging baskets free up room for play while keeping frequently used toys within easy reach. Plus, they add a fun, whimsical element to the room’s decor.
Pro Tip: Arrange the baskets at different heights to create visual interest and make it easier for kids to access their toys. You can also assign each basket a specific category—one for plush toys, another for balls, etc.
Implementation Tip: Be sure to use strong anchors and hardware to securely attach the baskets, especially if they’ll be holding heavier toys. You’ll also want to position them in areas that won’t interfere with walking paths or play zones.
3. Rolling Toy Carts for Easy Mobility
Rolling carts are a fantastic solution for families who want flexible toy storage that can move from room to room. These multi-tiered carts typically feature several shelves, providing ample space for organizing a variety of toys, from craft supplies to small toys like cars and dolls. The wheels make it easy to roll the cart into the toy room for playtime and out of the way when you need more space.
Why It Works: Rolling toy carts are ideal for multi-purpose spaces, as they allow you to easily transport toys between different areas of the house. When the kids are done playing, simply roll the cart into a closet or corner to keep the room tidy.
Pro Tip: Use baskets or bins on each shelf to keep toys organized and prevent them from falling off while moving the cart. For an added touch of creativity, let the kids decorate the cart with stickers or paint.
Implementation Tip: When selecting a cart, look for sturdy materials and smooth-rolling wheels. Some carts also come with brakes, which are useful if you plan to leave the cart in one place for an extended period.
4. Under-the-Bed Storage Bins for Hidden Organization
If you’re short on space, under-the-bed storage bins are a clever way to keep toys out of sight but still easily accessible. These slim, rolling bins fit neatly under most beds and can store everything from board games to larger toys. They’re especially handy for items that don’t get used every day but still need to be within reach when playtime comes around.
Why It Works: This storage solution is perfect for small spaces where floor space is limited. By utilizing the area under the bed, you create additional storage without cluttering the room. It’s also a great way to store seasonal or rotating toys, ensuring that the toy room stays fresh and uncluttered.
Pro Tip: Use clear bins to make it easy to see what’s inside without having to pull everything out. You can also label each bin to keep things organized by toy type or theme.
Implementation Tip: Measure the height of your bed frame to ensure the bins will fit comfortably underneath. Choose bins with wheels for easy access and smooth sliding.
5. Toy Storage Benches with Dual Functionality
Toy storage benches are a great way to combine seating and storage into one practical piece of furniture. These benches feature hidden compartments under the seat, perfect for storing toys, books, or even extra bedding. Not only do they provide a comfortable spot for kids to sit and read or play, but they also help keep the toy room clutter-free.
Why It Works: The dual functionality of storage benches makes them ideal for toy rooms where space is at a premium. By combining seating and storage, you maximize the use of your space while keeping toys neatly tucked away when not in use.
Pro Tip: Choose a storage bench with a cushioned seat for added comfort. You can also find benches with different compartment sizes, making it easy to store a variety of toys.
Implementation Tip: Place the storage bench in a cozy reading nook or along a wall where it can double as extra seating during playdates. Be sure to choose a bench that complements the room’s decor for a seamless look.
6. Color-Coded Bins for Easy Cleanup
Color-coding is a fun and effective way to encourage kids to clean up after themselves. By assigning a specific color to each type of toy—blue for blocks, red for cars, yellow for dolls—children can easily identify where everything belongs. This method not only makes cleanup more manageable but also teaches kids valuable organizational skills.
Why It Works: Color-coded bins make it easier for kids to take responsibility for keeping their toy room tidy. It’s a simple yet effective system that turns cleanup into a fun game, helping to reduce clutter and chaos in the playroom.
Pro Tip: Use bright, vibrant colors that appeal to your child’s sense of fun. You can even get them involved in choosing the colors for each toy category to make the process more engaging.
Implementation Tip: Be sure to label the bins with both the color and the name of the toy category (e.g., “Red—Cars”) for added clarity. You can also use colored stickers or washi tape to label shelves or baskets.
7. Wall-Mounted Shelves for Books and Display
Wall-mounted shelves are a stylish and practical way to store books, puzzles, or decorative toys. By taking advantage of vertical space, these shelves free up floor space while adding a touch of personality to the room. They’re also perfect for displaying favorite items, making the toy room feel more organized and less cluttered.
Why It Works: Wall-mounted shelves are versatile and can be arranged in various ways to suit your storage needs. Whether you’re creating a mini library or showcasing your child’s favorite toys, these shelves offer both functionality and a touch of design flair.
Pro Tip: Install shelves at different heights to create an interesting visual effect. You can also use floating shelves for a sleek, modern look.
Implementation Tip: Be sure to anchor the shelves securely to the wall, especially if they’ll be holding heavier items. Place them within easy reach of your child so they can access their toys and books independently.
8. Clear Plastic Containers for Visual Organization
Clear plastic containers are a game-changer when it comes to organizing toys. They allow both you and your child to see what’s inside without opening every box or bin, making it easier to find specific toys. Whether you’re storing action figures, Legos, or craft supplies, clear containers help maintain order while keeping everything visible.
Why It Works: Clear containers streamline the process of finding and putting away toys, making cleanup quicker and more efficient. They also help you keep track of toy inventory, so you know when it’s time to donate or rotate toys.
Pro Tip: Use containers with snap-on lids to keep toys securely stored and dust-free. You can also add labels for an extra level of organization.
Implementation Tip: Stackable containers are a great space-saving solution, especially for smaller toy rooms. Choose containers that are uniform in size to create a cohesive, organized look.
9. Pegboards for Hanging Toys and Accessories
Pegboards are a fun and functional way to organize smaller toys and accessories. These versatile boards can be mounted on the wall and customized with hooks, baskets, and shelves to hold everything from dress-up clothes to art supplies. Pegboards not only keep toys organized but also add a playful, creative element to the room’s decor.
Why It Works: Pegboards offer a flexible storage solution that can be easily adjusted as your child’s toy collection evolves. Plus, they encourage creativity by allowing you to design the board layout to suit your needs.
Pro Tip: Use
a mix of hooks, baskets, and shelves to create a dynamic storage system. You can also paint the pegboard in fun colors to match the room’s theme.
Implementation Tip: Install the pegboard at a height that’s accessible for your child. Be sure to use sturdy hardware to ensure it can hold the weight of the toys and accessories.
10. Toy Hammocks for Soft Toy Storage
Toy hammocks are a great way to store plush toys while keeping them off the floor. These stretchy, wall-mounted hammocks can be hung in a corner or along a wall, providing ample storage for stuffed animals and other soft toys. They add a fun, playful element to the room, and kids love the idea of having their favorite stuffed animals hanging out in a cozy hammock.
Why It Works: Toy hammocks are ideal for storing plush toys that can take up a lot of floor space. They help to keep soft toys organized and visible while freeing up space for playtime activities.
Pro Tip: Install the hammock at a height that’s accessible for your child so they can easily retrieve and put away their toys.
Implementation Tip: Make sure to securely attach the hammock to the wall using strong hooks or anchors, especially if you plan to store a lot of toys in it.
11. Labelled Toy Bins for Quick and Easy Cleanup
Labeling bins is one of the simplest yet most effective ways to keep toys organized. Whether you use pictures, words, or both, labels help children (and adults) know exactly where each toy belongs. This method encourages kids to participate in cleanup and makes it easier to maintain order in the toy room.
Why It Works: Labels make toy organization intuitive, especially for younger children who may not yet be able to read. By using pictures or color-coded labels, you can create a visual system that helps them identify where each toy should go.
Pro Tip: Laminate your labels to make them more durable, especially if the bins will get frequent use.
Implementation Tip: You can find pre-made labels online, or create your own custom labels using a printer and clear adhesive paper. For added durability, place labels on the outside of the bins where they won’t be handled as much.
12. Bookshelves with Storage Baskets for Mixed Toy Storage
Bookshelves aren’t just for books—they can also be used for storing a variety of toys, from puzzles to small action figures. By adding storage baskets or bins to the shelves, you can create a versatile system that holds both toys and books, helping you make the most of your space.
Why It Works: Bookshelves provide vertical storage, allowing you to store toys and books together in one place. The addition of baskets or bins keeps small toys organized and prevents clutter from taking over the shelves.
Pro Tip: Arrange books on the top shelves and place toys or bins on the lower shelves, where kids can easily reach them.
Implementation Tip: Choose a bookshelf with adjustable shelves so you can customize the height based on the size of your toys and books. For a cohesive look, use matching baskets or bins.
13. Over-the-Door Organizers for Extra Storage
If you’re short on storage space, over-the-door organizers can be a lifesaver. These hanging organizers feature multiple pockets and can be used to store small toys, art supplies, or even board games. Simply hang one on the back of the toy room door or inside a closet for instant, space-saving storage.
Why It Works: Over-the-door organizers take advantage of otherwise unused space, making them a great solution for small toy rooms. The multiple pockets help keep small items sorted and easy to find.
Pro Tip: Use clear pockets so kids can see what’s inside without having to dig through each one.
Implementation Tip: Choose an organizer with deep pockets if you plan to store larger toys or items like board games. For smaller toys, look for organizers with multiple shallow pockets.
14. Toy Rotation Bins for Managing the Toy Collection
Toy rotation is a strategy that involves keeping only a portion of your child’s toys available at a time, while storing the rest in bins or containers. Every few weeks, you rotate the toys, bringing out new ones while storing the ones that were in use. This method keeps the toy room from becoming overwhelmed with too many toys and helps maintain your child’s interest in their playthings.
Why It Works: By rotating toys, you reduce the number of toys your child has access to at one time, which helps minimize clutter and keeps the toy room manageable. It also creates excitement when “new” toys are reintroduced into the rotation.
Pro Tip: Label the rotation bins by month or season to help you keep track of which toys are in storage and when they should be rotated.
Implementation Tip: Store rotation bins in a closet or under the bed to keep them out of sight. Set a schedule for rotating toys every few weeks to keep things fresh and interesting.
15. Multi-Compartment Toy Chests for Quick Stash
A traditional toy chest with multiple compartments offers a fast and easy way to store a variety of toys. Look for a toy chest that includes built-in dividers or multiple compartments to help keep different types of toys organized. This option works well for larger toys or items that don’t fit neatly into bins or baskets.
Why It Works: Multi-compartment toy chests provide ample storage for different types of toys while keeping everything in one central location. The built-in dividers make it easier to sort toys, so the chest doesn’t become a chaotic jumble.
Pro Tip: Choose a toy chest with a slow-closing lid to prevent pinched fingers, especially if younger children will be using it.
Implementation Tip: Use one compartment for large toys and another for smaller items like cars or dolls. Be sure to teach your child how to use the different compartments to keep things organized.
16. DIY Peg Rail for Hanging Costumes and Accessories
A DIY peg rail is a stylish and practical way to store dress-up costumes, hats, and other accessories. By mounting a peg rail along the wall, you create a space where your child can easily hang and access their favorite dress-up items. This not only helps with organization but also encourages imaginative play.
Why It Works: Peg rails keep costumes and accessories off the floor and neatly displayed. The open design makes it easy for kids to see and grab what they want to wear, and it adds a decorative touch to the toy room.
Pro Tip: Add baskets or small bins underneath the peg rail to store accessories like shoes or hats.
Implementation Tip: When installing the peg rail, make sure to place the pegs at a height that your child can easily reach. You can also paint the peg rail to match the room’s decor.
17. Magnetic Strips for Small Toy Organization
Magnetic strips are a clever way to store small metal toys, such as cars or figurines. These strips can be mounted on the wall and provide an easy way to keep small toys off the floor and neatly organized. They’re especially useful in smaller spaces where traditional storage options may not fit.
Why It Works: Magnetic strips offer a fun and interactive way for kids to store their small metal toys. They help keep frequently used toys within reach while freeing up space in bins and baskets.
Pro Tip: Install multiple magnetic strips at different heights to create a layered look and provide more storage space.
Implementation Tip: Make sure the toys you plan to store on the magnetic strip are lightweight enough to stay securely in place. You can also use magnetic strips to store other metal items, such as art supplies or building sets.
Conclusion
With these 17 toy room storage ideas, you now have a variety of creative and practical solutions to keep your home organized and clutter-free. From cube storage and rolling carts to peg rails and magnetic strips, these ideas will help you create a functional and fun play space that your kids will love.
Remember, toy organization is all about finding what works best for your space and your family’s needs. Whether you’re tackling a large playroom or a small toy nook, these storage hacks will make cleanup easier and encourage your children to take ownership of their toys.
So, what are you waiting for? Start implementing these ideas today and watch as your toy room transforms into a neat, organized, and enjoyable space for both play and creativity.