My home doesn't have a basement or even a dedicated playroom, so my toddler's toys are usually scattered all over our apartment by the end of the day, which at first was quite overwhelming. Some time before his first birthday, we got tired of our living room looking like a toy store and we were forced to come up with a plan of action for getting it back under control. The first thing we did was purge–we stored away anything he was too old for and trashed anything that was broken or otherwise non-functioning. Then we designated storage areas for what remained.
For us, that means that one of the decorative baskets in our living room now belongs to our son, and between naps and overnight, everything goes in and it gets tucked away in its proper place. Anything that doesn't fit in that basket gets stored in his room at the end of the day and our living room is restored to its former glory.
Read more ¿Qué más?: The 7 best learning toys & tools for toddlers
Below you'll find six toy storage ideas that will keep your home looking like a home rather than a 24/7 playland.
Image via housetweaking.com
Under-Couch Drawers
Drawers from a thrifted dresser are refinished and turned into a stylish place to store small toys, books and games. Of course the same can be done with slim baskets or boxes.
Bench Storage
A low cabinet with drawers and some cushions makes for a cheap and cheerful storage option for any room of the house. This version uses a sink cabinet and an outdoor lounge chair cushion–both clearance finds.
Ottoman Storage
Ottomans that feature covered storage space are perfect for small toys. These are widely available in a variety of price ranges and require little to no work on your part.
Open Basket Storage
Open baskets tucked away on a shelf, or under a coffee table or bench are the perfect option for families with younger children, since they hide away the toys while still allowing for easy access.
Outdoor Toy Storage
Keep your yard neat between play sessions by filling a sturdy rack with labeled baskets, bins or tubs to story all those grubby outdoor toys.
Bath Toy Storage
Though mine isn't nearly as fancy as this one, a few months back I made a simple tote for bath toy storage and after letting the toys drain overnight, I fill the bag and keep it hanging on a hook inside the linen closet.
