Toy Overhaul

Some days my house feels like one big giant toy box!

Clutter Problem:

Too many toys and books with nowhere to put them.

Here is an example of toys lacking a defined home also known as things everywhere!

Even though parts of my home felt organized, I was determined to find a solution to the toy clutter problem. I came across this awesome playroom on iheartorganizing and was totally inspired by the toy organization. I love how she has a place for everything and how the storage is all clearly labeled. This is a perfect example of how an organized space does not need to be sterile or uninviting. This room still looks like a fun room where some serious playing can happen.

I was especially drawn to the Ikea bookshelf (Expedit) because I had seen it used for similar a function in a house crashing by younghouselove.

I knew this bookshelf would be a perfect and inexpensive way to stash all the toys but still keep them visible so the little ones know what they can play with.

Solution:

Open bookshelf with cubbies to house all our toys and kids’ books and also be kid friendly and accessible to facilitate easy access to toys.

I was ready to run out to Ikea right then and there. Unfortunately, we didn’t have enough moula in our home decorating budget. I had to wait.  Then I had my light bulb moment!

I did a quick Craigslist search and discovered there is a ton of Ikea furniture on Craigslist! Best of all I found the Expedit bookshelf right next to my husband’s office for $50 less than the store price. Score! I wasn’t too concerned about any minor scratches because it was bound to get a few more in the kids’ room. 

The girls helped me wipe it down and prep it for use in the room and then we were ready to fill it!

The radio, games, craft sets (in the white bin), piggy bank, porcelain tea set and special books we read together are on the top. While play sets were placed on the bottom shelf to make drawer-like bins that can easily move to the floor for playing. Books and miscellaneous toys make up the rest of the cubbies. I also designated a specific spot for library books for easy retrieval when we head off to the library.

Any other toys were donated or stored in their closet for future rotation. I rotate toys monthly or bimonthly to help keep things fresh and keep the kids from feeling too overwhelmed with options.  We have a generous walk-in closet that provides ample parking space for the big toys too.

What I love:

All of their toys are in one spot so there is only one place to look when deciding what to play with and only one labeled spot to return toys when cleaning up.

I plan on replacing the bottom tubs with baskets that fill in the whole cubby which will give the bookshelf a cleaner look. But for now I am using what I have.

Bonus– saved $50 big ones!

Next Step:

During playtime, getting the kiddos to clean up their current toys before getting out new ones. Any tips?

How do you corral toy clutter?

Can’t get enough toy organizing? Check out my updates in Part 2 of my Toy Overhaul!