Lack of space is a common problem in many homes. It becomes a particularly stressful situation when children arrive, given the sheer volume of belongings and toys they accumulate. If your home is on the smaller side, the following tips on how to organise toys in a small room should prove very useful.
How to stop your children from accumulating toys
The first idea for storing children's toys is simply to prevent them from accumulating too many in the first place. Many children suffer from the overgifted-child syndrome, which occurs above all at Christmas, when some children receive more than ten presents.
The direct consequence of this is that they stop appreciating the gesture, become consumerist and demanding. They also fail to value their own belongings, and those toys end up taking up space that is not always available at home.
A good way to prevent toy accumulation is to rediscover what they already have at home, donate to relatives or a charity any toys they no longer use, and instil in them the idea that they can have fun without an excess of games — because imagination and a good book are the best remedy for keeping children entertained.
Ideas for organising children's toys in small rooms
That said, despite every parent's wish to avoid an excess of gifts, toy accumulation is a constant in many households. The toy storage ideas we suggest here are designed to help little ones learn the value of mindful consumption too.
Toy organisation ideas: open shelving units
One approach that always works is placing open shelving units divided into square modules where toys can be stored. For extra tidiness, you can add fabric or wicker baskets that fit neatly into the shelf compartments.
Rolling boxes
The second idea is to use boxes with wheels. This is one of those toy organisation ideas that gets children directly involved, as they can move the box to any corner of the room they choose. At the same time, they will be actively taking part in tidying up their toys.
Multi-purpose chests
A chest or trunk is another essential item that always comes up in toy storage discussions. The added bonus is that it can also serve as a seat or as a game board.
Beds with drawers
Continuing with toy organisation ideas, it is impossible to overlook the option of fitting small drawers under the bed that remain hidden beneath the mattress. When closed, they do not reduce the available play area at all.
Where to store toys your children no longer use
These are just some ideas for organising toys, but sometimes they are not enough — the volume of accumulated toys is such that you have to take them to the garage, a storage unit or a relative's home where there is more space.
And when none of that is an option but you still want to keep the toys, Horizont Atlantic offers a storage unit rental service at our facilities, where items are kept safe and in perfect condition.
Organising toys in a small room is always a headache, almost as much as convincing little ones that having so many play options is not strictly necessary. Fortunately, there are practical solutions to all of these challenges.
Frequently asked questions about organising toys in a small room
How many toys does a child actually need?
Child psychology studies suggest that between 10 and 20 accessible toys at any one time is optimal. More toys overwhelm the child and reduce the time dedicated to each one. The rotation technique (storing half the toys and swapping them every 2–3 weeks) keeps interest alive without clutter.
What furniture works best for storing toys in a small room?
Proven solutions: low drawers under the bed with wheels (makes use of dead space), chests that double as benches, tall shelving units with pull-out cubes at child height, wall hooks for backpacks and costumes, IKEA Råskog-style trolleys for art and craft supplies.
Should the child decide which toys to get rid of?
Yes, especially from the age of 4–5. Do it in short sessions (15–20 minutes) to avoid exhausting their attention. Three boxes: "keep / give away / throw away". Do not make decisions on their behalf for toys with sentimental value (favourite soft toys). For toys that are clearly broken or incomplete, decide yourself.
How do I stop toys from taking over the living room?
Define a "child's corner" in the living room (a nook with a chest or dedicated shelf). Establish a daily routine of tidying up before dinner (even children aged 3–4 can do this if they are taught). If the bedroom is very small, books and "quiet" toys can go in the living room; noisier and bulkier ones in the bedroom.
What about large electronic toys (consoles, drum kit)?
Assign a fixed spot with power outlets. For consoles: better in the shared living room with the main TV (helps with time management and family interaction). Musical instruments: if it is a drum kit or piano, consider a soundproofed area or agreed schedules with neighbours. More on children: moving house with children without losing control.
