From rogue LEGO bricks underfoot to doll accessories mysteriously multiplying overnight, keeping kids’ toys and playroom tidy can feel like a losing battle. If your child’s playroom feels more like a toy explosion zone than a peaceful play haven, you’re not alone.
But here’s the good news: a clutter-free, functional, and fun playroom is completely achievable, and no, it doesn’t require a total overhaul or hours of effort every day. With just a few smart systems and kid-friendly strategies, you can transform the mess into magic and make tidying up a breeze (even for the little ones!).
Ready to bring calm to the chaos?
Let’s get started into practical, trend-savvy tips for decluttering, organising, and maintaining a play space that works for your child and your sanity.
Step 1: Declutter the Playroom (Yes, Even with Kids Around!)
Before we get to the Pinterest-worthy storage solutions, it’s time to address the elephant in the room: too much stuff. Even the best storage won’t help if every shelf is crammed.
How to Declutter Kids’ Toys Without the Tears:
- Sort by Category: Group toys into categories, building sets, soft toys, puzzles, crafts, etc.
- Say Goodbye to Broken Toys: If it’s missing parts or no longer works, it’s time to part ways.
- Donate What’s Outgrown: Involve your kids and explain how they’re helping others by giving.
- Use a “Maybe” Box: Can’t decide? Store questionable items for a month. If they’re not missed, they’re ready to go.
Pro Tip: Frame decluttering as a kindness activity, “Let’s choose some toys to share with other kids!” This builds empathy and clears space.
Step 2: Set Up a Smart Toy Storage System
The key to keeping a playroom tidy? Storage solutions that are simple, stylish, and easy for kids to use.
1. Use Bins, Baskets & Clear Containers
Forget complicated drawer systems. Stick to open bins and soft baskets that kids can access easily.
Perfect for: Blocks, soft toys, dress-up clothes. Why it works: Kids can see, grab, and (most importantly) put things back quickly
Pro Tip: Use stackable bins with handles for flexibility and flow, so kids can toss things in without fiddling with lids.
2: Labels (with Pictures for Pre-Readers!)
Labels aren’t just cute, they’re essential. Add pictures for younger kids and bold text for older ones.
Perfect for: Grouping similar toys (e.g., “Cars” bin, “Dolls” bin). Why it works: Cuts down on the “Muuuum, where does this go?” questions
Pro Tip: Use chalkboard labels or printable icon tags for easy refreshes as toys evolve.
3. Rotate Toys Regularly
Did you know fewer toys actually lead to more creative play? Keep things exciting by rotating out toys every couple of weeks.
Perfect for: Managing visual clutter and overstimulation. Why it works: Kids see old toys as “new” again
Pro Tip: Store rotated toys in a labeled bin out of sight and make it a fun surprise day when they return!
Step 3: Design Play Zones with Purpose
Ever notice how playrooms get messy because everything is everywhere? Creating play zones helps keep toys in their place and makes playtime more intentional. Everything has a place, and when that place is defined by activity, cleanup becomes second nature (eventually).
Suggested Zones for a Functional Playroom
Art Station: A kid-sized table with crayons, paper, and washable supplies
Building Zone: A mat for LEGOs, blocks, and STEM kits
Dress-Up Corner: Hooks, mirror, and bins for costumes and accessories
Reading Nook: A soft and cozy rug, bean bag, and shelf of age-appropriate books
Perfect for: Encouraging independent play and keeping things contained. Why it works: Play is more focused, and mess stays in one area
Pro Tip: Use rugs, decals, or low shelving to visually define each space
Step 4: Make Cleanup a Game (Yes, Really!)
The biggest parenting hack? Turning chores into games. When cleanup is playful, kids are way more likely to get involved without protest. Kids won’t clean up if it feels like a chore, so if you turn it into a game, and suddenly, they’re all in!
Try These Fun Cleanup Games:
Beat the Timer: “Let’s see how many toys we can put away in two minutes!” Set a 2-minute timer and see how fast they can tidy up!
Color Hunt: “Find and clean up everything that’s red!”
Toy Rescue: “Let’s help the toys get back to their homes before bedtime!”
Perfect for: Getting kids to clean up without complaints. Why it works: Makes tidying up feel like part of play and teamwork
Pro Tip: Celebrate effort over perfection, a high five, sticker, or an extra bedtime story can work wonders.
Let’s Make a Playroom That Stays Organised and Brings Joy, Not Stress!
At the end of the day, a tidy playroom isn’t about rigid rules or perfection, it’s about creating manageable systems that grow with your child. With a bit of thoughtful decluttering, the right storage tools, and a playful approach to tidying up, you can turn chaos into calm.
So, Do You Need a Helping Hand That Can Turn Your Chaos into Calm?
Every parent knows how quickly the entire house can start to feel like a playroom. Toys seem to multiply overnight, making it challenging to find a storage solution that works for both you and your kids.
Whether you have a dedicated playroom or you’re using a corner of the living room or nursery, these stylish and clever storage ideas will help you keep toy clutter under control, without sacrificing style or sanity.
At Your Ducks In A Row, we specialise in designing real-life-friendly organising solutions for busy families. From full playroom overhauls to toy storage makeovers, our expert team of talented organisers is here to help you create a space your kids love, and one you love too.
Book a free Zoom consultation today, and let’s bring back the joy (and floor space!) to your home. You’ve got this, and we’ve got your back!
