Keeping a playroom organized can feel like trying to tame a mini hurricane — trust me, I’ve been there!
The toys, books, and craft supplies seem to multiply overnight, right? But here’s the good news: with a little strategy and some clever storage solutions, you can transform even the most chaotic playroom into a functional and inviting space (yes, truly).
When I first tackled my kids’ playroom, I felt totally overwhelmed. Every surface was covered in LEGOs, puzzles, and stuffed animals with no rhyme or reason. I knew I needed a system — one that wouldn’t just work for me, but for my kids, too.
After many trial-and-error attempts (and about a dozen baskets later), I found a few approaches that made a huge difference.
So, let’s dive into some practical, budget-friendly storage tips that will make tidying up faster than your kids can dump out another bin of blocks.
1. Maximize Space with a Hanging Closet
Hanging crates are a perfect way to use vertical space creatively. I love how they keep items like plush toys and blankets neatly organized in one spot.
Each level can hold a different category—like essentials up top and toys at the bottom—keeping everything tidy and accessible.
Plus, they add a rustic charm to your playroom. You can customize the crates with paint or labels to fit your style.
2. Organize Toys with Canvas Bins
Canvas bins are a go-to for organizing my kids’ toys. They’re lightweight, durable, and fit perfectly into cubby shelves.
I labeled mine for easy sorting—“dolls,” “blocks,” or “books”—so even toddlers can help with cleanup.
These bins make everything look organized and clean. Adding fun labels with pictures is a great way for younger kids to recognize what goes where.
3. Turn Closets into Toy Storage Hubs
Turn a regular closet into a playful storage hub! Using a mix of shelves, bins, and clear containers, you can make items easy to find.
I love how everything has its place in this setup—puzzles, games, and craft supplies all tucked away neatly.
Closed doors are the real heroes here. They keep the clutter hidden while still making it simple to grab what you need in a snap.
4. Save Floor Space with Floating Shelves
Floating shelves combine storage and decor effortlessly. I installed some for toys and books, keeping clutter off the floor.
Toys, especially colorful ones, double as decorations, giving the playroom a cheerful vibe. Arranging by color adds a playful touch.
Adjusting shelf heights to fit different items is helpful. It ensures taller toys or pretty framed prints get a spot too!
5. Use Stackable Bins for Tiny Toys
I swear by stackable bins for keeping tiny toys in check. They’re clear, so kids can grab their blocks or Legos without fumbling.
Organizing by category—like using separate bins for cars and craft supplies—makes playtime smoother.
Labeling the bins is a game-changer. Bonus: stacking them saves floor space, keeping the room free for activities.
6. Try Garden Hanging Baskets for Toys
These hanging baskets are such a fun and affordable storage tip! I installed them low enough for kids to access their toys easily.
They’re great for stuffed animals or dress-up accessories and add a unique look to the playroom.
Painting them to match the room’s vibe gives them personality. Plus, they free up tons of floor space!
7. Utilize Under-the-Bed Drawers
Under-the-bed drawers are lifesavers when space is tight. I use them for board games, stuffed toys, and seasonal items.
Sliding them out when needed is super convenient, and it keeps things hidden when not in use.
Adding labels to the sides of the drawers helps me track what’s inside, saving time when hunting for specific toys.
8. Use Rolling Storage for Outdoor Toys
Rolling storage works magic for outdoor gear. I use one like this to organize sports balls, bats, and chalk.
The wheels make it easy to roll in and out of the garage or backyard. It’s a quick fix for outdoor toy chaos!
Plus, everything stays in one place, which means no more running around looking for scattered soccer balls.
9. Store Overflow Toys in Garage Cabinets
I transformed one corner of my garage using cabinets like these, and it’s a total game-changer.
Everything—from helmets to sand toys—gets its spot. Categorized bins make it easy to grab what you need.
The setup keeps the garage looking neat, and now I don’t trip over sports gear every time I step in.
10. Create a Vertical Tower for Toy Storage
Tower storage systems are perfect for stacking playroom toys. Wide bins at the bottom work for big items, while smaller ones hold tiny toys up top.
The vertical design saves space and keeps everything easy to grab during playtime.
I labeled the bins to simplify cleanup. It’s a total lifesaver when you need to keep things functional yet organized.
11. Add Book Cubbies for a Reading Nook
Book cubbies transformed our playroom! I organized books and a few toys in these, making them a versatile storage solution.
Placing them at a child-friendly height encourages kids to grab their favorite book or toy independently.
Adding a cozy chair nearby creates a sweet reading nook your little ones will love exploring.
12. Get Creative with Crate Shelving
Wooden crates make storage affordable and stylish. I stacked and painted mine for a charming DIY touch.
The open design keeps toys and books easy to spot and grab during playtime.
You can customize the layout to fit small spaces, like under-stair nooks or awkward corners, making them ideal for creative storage.
13. Corral Stuffed Animals with Ease
I use a storage corral just like this for my kids’ stuffed animals, and it’s a lifesaver!
The elastic ropes let kids easily pull out their favorites while keeping the rest neatly contained.
It’s a playful way to store plush toys without sacrificing accessibility or making a mess in the playroom.
14. Turn Under-Stairs Space into Storage
Under-stairs storage might be my favorite playroom hack! Adding wire baskets and small shelves keeps toys organized.
It’s perfect for books, sports gear, or games that need a home but don’t get constant use.
Transforming wasted space into a functional nook makes the playroom look so much cleaner.
15. Organize Smartly with a Vertical Toy Rack
Vertical toy racks are great space savers. Lightweight baskets make organizing Legos, crayons, and supplies easy.
I keep similar racks, adjusting categories for art supplies and smaller toys. They’re simple for kids to sort through.
You can also move them around the room for flexible storage—practical and adorable in any space!
16. Make Cleanup Easy with Rolling Carts
These rolling carts are so versatile! I use mine for craft materials on one shelf, snacks on another, and toys on the bottom.
The portability makes cleanup effortless—you can wheel it out for playtime and back for storage.
If you’re juggling multiple tasks, this cart will be your new best friend. It’s compact, easy to use, and super handy!
FAQs
- How can I keep a small playroom organized?
- Utilize vertical storage, multi-functional furniture, and clear bins to maximize space effectively.
- What are some budget-friendly storage options for toys?
- Try DIY storage crates, upcycled baskets, and dollar-store bins to keep costs low while maintaining order.
- How do I get my kids involved in organizing the playroom?
- Turn clean-up time into a game or challenge, using labeled bins and sorting systems to make it fun and educational.
- What are the best storage solutions for arts and crafts supplies?
- Portable caddies, pegboards, and wall-mounted organizers keep art supplies accessible and tidy.
- How often should I declutter the playroom?
- Aim for a seasonal toy purge every three months and a quick tidy-up session at the end of each day