Finding an appropriate way to store your child’s toys seems like a never-ending problem. You might spend an afternoon piling everything into a toy box, only to come back 20 minutes later and find that your children have emptied it all over again, in search of something all the way at the bottom.
So, are you doomed to live in a cluttered and disorganized space simply because there are children (and their toys) in the house? Or could there be a better way?
I went out to some of my trusty mommy blogs and DIY pages in search of clever, unexpected, and really stylish toy storage solutions, and boy are there some real winners out there!
I’ve assembled all of my favorites, and I’m so excited to share them with you. Indoor toys, outdoor toys, tub toys, magnetic toys… There is a solution to anything and everything.
You’re guaranteed to get some good ideas from this list. Happy planning!
Stylish Under-the-Bed Train Table
If you have a child going through a train phase, you already understand the headaches associated with storing all those wooden tracks and rail cars.
This family built a genius under-bed pull-out train table and storage drawer. Visit source…
Source: babyology.com.au
Kiddie Car Parking Garage
Outdoor toys are an excellent way to encourage exercise, but storing outdoor play equipment poses a unique problem.
This family built a covered parking garage for all those toy cars and tricycles that otherwise end up left on the lawn. Visit source…
Source: momendeavors.com
Dress Up Headquarters
This adorable setup was constructed by a clever mom looking for a way to keep all those dress-up clothes and accessories organized.
She built a miniature wardrobe to house her daughter’s princess gown collection. Visit source…
Source: aturtleslifeforme.com
Barbie Organizer
Once your child is into dolls, you can expect the collection to grow exponentially. It can be a real challenge keeping the dolls organized, or easily within reach.
This blogger used an over-the-door shoe storage solution. Easy, inexpensive, and highly practical. Visit source…
Source: agirlandagluegun.com
Rolling Toy Storage
Toy cars and trucks have a way of, well, rolling out of sight. This blog shows you how to construct a rolling cart which can be loaded up with cars and trucks, then slid under your child’s bed.
No more nighttime hallway trip hazards! Visit source…
Source: lizoncall.com
DIY Creative Bookshelves
This family created low-profile corner bookshelves by cleverly using rain gutters.
This way, books can be easily reachable, and prominently displayed without taking up any floor space. Visit source…
Source: sunshineontheinside.blogspot.com
Organized Playroom Storage
This family demonstrates the complete playroom makeover. This is definitely a larger scale construction project, but just take a look at the pictures. Clearly all that work paid off. Visit source…
Source: thesunnysideupblog.com
Matchbox Car Garage
Matchbox cars are exactly the kind of toy that gets lost or forgotten due to its small size, and ability to roll away.
This clever mom constructed a wall-mounted matchbox car garage. Look how neat and color coded the whole thing is! Visit source…
Source: aloandbeholdlife.com
Nerf Storage Ideas
This blog offers up several different solutions for storing Nerf guns. Everything from a wall-mounted rack, to a miniature gun cabinet are among the choices.
There’s going to be one that works for your home! Visit source…
Source: agirlandagluegun.com
Bath Toys Organizer
Bath toys can be a real challenge: they need to be kept dry and organized, but that’s hard to do when they’re in a tub all day.
By using a tension rod and some plastic baskets, this family solved the problem nicely! Visit source…
Source: cleverlysimple.com
Hanging Bed Organizer
If you’re handy with a sewing machine, check this project out! This is a bed organizer with pockets which disappear underneath the comforter.
A great way to keep favorite toys and books close by without cluttering a nightstand. Visit source…
Source: sewmamasew.com
Game Board Storage Art
This is brilliant! Board games can take up a lot of space, but not if you turn them into wall art.
By framing the game board and attaching a bag with the game pieces to the back of the frame, you can store all your games and their pieces as art displays. Visit source…
Source: infarrantlycreative.net
DIY Functional Storage Idea
This blog is offering up plans for a DIY storage shelf made from a wood frame, and plastic bins which can slide out like drawers.
The possibilities are endless, and this would work in any kids room. Visit source…
Source: shanty-2-chic.com
Organizing Outside Toys
Outdoor toys are especially susceptible to getting lost, broken, or just terribly disorganized.
This mom used a wire rack and several shiny metal buckets (with lids!) As a way to organize chalk, bubbles, jump ropes, sand toys, and everything else for the backyard. Visit source…
Source: domesticcharm.blogspot.com
”Peek-A-Boo” Toy Sacks
Believe me, there are days where I want to just shove all the toys into bags and call it a day, but then the kids can never find anything.
This mom came up with “peekaboo bags” with clear panels so kids can see what’s inside. Problem solved! Visit source…
Source: makeitperfect.com.au
IKEA Toy Storage
Attention IKEA lovers! This blogger made great use of some modular shelving to create a toy storage cabinet that looks like custom built-ins.
You can follow along with how she did it on her blog. Visit source…
Source: hometalk.com
Shelves Toys Storage
Those who are looking to do a complete room overhaul can get a lot of inspiration from this blog.
This mom’s decorating and organizational skills are quite enviable, and she takes us on a virtual tour of her beautiful playroom. Visit source…
Source: hellobabybrown.com
Wood Bins Toys Storage
Target hack! This family found a way to slide affordable wooden storage bins from Target into a small bookshelf, and in doing so created highly organized toy storage. Visit source…
Source: farmfreshtherapy.com
Cube Toys Organizer
Here’s an example of a mom keeping it real. We don’t all have playrooms, so how do you keep toys organized when they are spread out among your living room, and the kids’ room?
There are some great ideas here. Visit source…
Source: makinghomebase.com
Organized Playroom
Full playroom storage plan. Devoting an entire room in your house just to toys and play can be setting yourself up for a real mess.
However, if you start out with an organized space like this, there will be far fewer headaches . Visit source…
Source: clutterbug.me
Bookcase with Toy Storage
Ready to show off those carpentry skills? This is a DIY guide to building a bookshelf with handy toy storage compartments along the bottom.
I love furniture with more than one function, and this is a great example. Visit source…
Source: rogueengineer.com
Rustic Toy Storage
Those who enjoy a more rustic or country look will absolutely love this DIY tutorial. Step by step, you will be walked through how to build this storage shelf with roll-out toy bins. Visit source…
Source: housefulofhandmade.com
Train Table with Storage
Some of these IKEA hacks are so clever. This family figured out how to take a piece of storage furniture, and turn it into a train table with toy storage bins beneath. Visit source…
Source: thecrazycraftlady.com
Drawer To Under Bed Toy Box On Wheels
Another genius under bed storage IKEA hack. This tutorial walks you through how to construct a large wooden IKEA Ben, place it on casters, and paint it up to match your child’s room theme . Visit source…
Source: grillo-designs.com
Lego Minifigure Display And Storage
Is there anything more inherently lose-able then Legos? This family has a brilliant workaround for that.
By using an IKEA frame, and clever placement of Lego bricks, they have created wall-mounted Lego mini figure storage. You have to see this one! Visit source…
Source: frugalfun4boys.com
Teddy Cubby and Reading Corner
Here’s another bit of furniture pulling double duty. On one hand, this square stool makes a comfy corner reading spot, but remove the upholstered lid, and you’ll find four storage bins located inside. Visit source…
Source: ikeahackers.net
Matchbox Hotwheels Storage
This is definitely one of those “Why didn’t I think of that?” projects.
This family simply attached multiple magnetic strips to their child’s playroom wall, and now they can easily store everything from matchbox cars to small metal action figures. So simple, so smart. Visit source…
Source: keepingupwiththesouths.com
DIY Dress-Up Closet
An IKEA bookshelf converted into a pint-size dress-up closet complete with a mirror. This is a really cute idea, and actually helps enhance imaginative play. There’s even a little spot for headbands. Visit source…
Source: rainonatinroof.com
Big Toys Storage Solution
Tackling the problem of big toys that won’t necessarily fit in a toy box, this family has come up with a shelving solution which keeps everything organized and well within reach. Especially helpful for toy trucks. Visit source…
Source: justagirlandherblog.com
Bath Tub Toy Storage
A great solution for bath toy storage which keeps everything organized, dry, but still well within safe reaching distance when your little ones are ready to play in the tub.
Just a minimal bit of DIY and you’re all set. Visit source…
Source: blueistyleblog.com
Bunk Bed Stairs with Storage
Talk about thinking outside the box! This family uses a series of storage cabinets which ascend in height to create a staircase for the upper bunk bed.
Now, their kids have a safer way to get up and down, and a whole lot of storage space. Visit source…
Source: ikeahackers.net
DIY Doll House Book Case
This family participated in a DIY bookcase challenge and brought a lot of creativity to the table. By making just a few strategic changes, they made their bookcase look like a dollhouse. Really cool! Visit source…
Source: thediyvillage.com
Car Storage Ideas
If you have a fan of miniature cars in your life, I’m guessing you also have several dozen of those cars all over your house.
This blog has compiled a list of ideas for DIY car storage. Check them out, and see what you find. Visit source…
Source: agirlandagluegun.com
Doll Storage
Doll storage can get a bit tricky, especially since dolls come in all shapes and sizes.
This blog will take you through how to construct an under bed storage container which is large enough to accommodate your little one’s growing doll collection. Visit source…
Source: iheartmygluegun.com
Wire Ball Bins
If you’re not exactly the DIY type, never fear. You can just as easily point, click, and shop for attractive toy organization solutions like these antique style wire baskets. Visit source…
Source: crateandbarrel.com
Toy Storage System Hack
Another family getting super creative with IKEA hacking, this blog will show you how to create a multipurpose toy storage shelving unit out of things readily available through IKEA.
Keep your hex wrench handy, and get ready to build. Visit source…
Source: ikeahackers.net
DIY Recycled Toy Storage Bin
Looking for something that is both budget and earth friendly? You won’t do much better than this: recycle your sturdy paper shopping bags into toy storage bins.
Maybe just a little bit of paint and paste to spruce them up, and you’re good to go. Visit source…
Source: hellowonderful.co
Sports Gear Box
If you find yourself constantly picking up sports gear that was left lying just inside your front door, this mom feels your pain, and has a tutorial for how to build the perfect storage box for all those bats, hockey sticks, ice skates, and football pads. Visit source…
Source: pennypinchinmom.com
Fabric Storage Basket
This mom made great use of oversized, hinge top jars to store all those little toys like blocks or Legos.
Clear see-through jars mean easy access for kids, and easy cleanup. Visit source…
Source: makeit-loveit.com
Painted Toy Jars
If you’re the crafty type, this blog will teach you how to create sturdy and durable fabric storage bins which can be placed anywhere and everywhere they are needed.
There are great way to keep things up off the floor. Visit source…
Source: anightowlblog.com
DIY Pallet Board Pool Toy Storage
Pool toys are made to be used and abused, but they can still benefit from proper storage. Those with carpentry skills can build a storage rack from old wood pallets.
Eco-friendly, and keeps your backyard organized. Visit source…
Source: smartypantsmama.com
DIY Matchbox Car Storage
Those familiar with PVC pipe can make a really clever storage solution for matchbox cars. Each “cell” holds one car, keeping them within easy reach, and also turning them into wall decor. Visit source…
Source: thegraciouswife.com
Toy Shelves from a Used Tire
Your little fan of cars and trucks will love this thematic toy shelf. By affixing the shelves inside a tire, this mom made it perfectly on-point car storage space for her son’s room. Visit source…
Source: spaceshipsandlaserbeams.com
DIY Repurposed Can Lego Head
Love this! By repurposing a large empty jar of cornstarch, this mom turned it into a Lego head. Now there is a fun and friendly place to keep all of those tiny blocks. Visit source…
Source: organized31.com
Hanging Storage Bins
Love this! By repurposing a large empty jar of cornstarch, this mom turned it into a Lego head. Now there is a fun and friendly place to keep all of those tiny blocks. Visit source…
Source: makeit-loveit.com
Toy Box with Casters
This DIY toy box tutorial will show you how to make a movable, rolling toy storage bin with a soft bench top. This will go great in any kid’s room, and can easily be moved around. Visit source…
Source: thislittlestreet.com
A Collector’s Shelf
Cardboard wall-mounted toy shelves for the little collector in your life. Those not comfortable working with PVC piping can achieve the same result by working with sturdy cardboard tubing.
Check out the results on this blog. Visit source…
Source: pysselbolaget.se
Puzzle Organization
Puzzles can get lost and disorganized very quickly. This blogger shows you a great way to jump on it early, by using plastic containers for each individual puzzle.
Simply cut out the picture on the lid and attach it to the front of each container. Visit source…
Crap Buckets
Gotta love the name of this project: “crap buckets.” In other words, brightly colored and clearly labeled buckets arranged along the stairs where parents can place all the things their kids leave around, and kids can then pick up their bucket and put everything where it belongs. Visit source…
Source: remarkablehome.net
Metal Hanging Fruit Basket
As part of an overall bathroom renovation, these parents came up with the idea to use a hanging wire fruit basket as a clever form of bath toy storage.
The water can easily drain out, and the toys have a chance to dry between play times. Visit source…
Source: 8footsix.com
Wall Clipboards
Not necessarily toy storage, but still a necessary storage solution when you have kids around: papers.
This mom attached several clipboards to a wall in her home, and each one can be used to display important school information, calendars, etc. Much better than trying to stick them all to the fridge. Visit source…
Source: homeiswhatyoumakeit.com
Smart Storage for Small Toys
Small toy storage can be particularly challenging. This blog will show you a clever use of mesh bags to keep everything organized. I like this because you can still see what’s inside the bags while keeping everything contained. Visit source…
Source: iheartorganizing.com
Arts and Crafts Supplies Organizer
Art supplies! If you’re not careful, they can take over your entire house. This blogger had the great idea to use an over-door shoe storage hanger as a way to keep all those markers, paints, colored pencils, and everything else in its own place. Visit source…
Source: cookienut.blogspot.com
Creative Toy Storage Ideas
This family is working with a shared space. There is no playroom per se, it’s more like a corner of the living room.
So, to keep everything organized, they had to get creative. You can see all the cool tips and tricks here. Visit source…
Source: thimbleandtwig.com
Hidden Storage and Train Table
A coffee table that converts into a train table, Lego table, playspace, etc. This is another great solution for families that need to blend playspace with living space.
No need for a separate room, just so long as you have a place to put the toys. Visit source…
Source: thekimsixfix.com
Hanging Rack for Play Clothes
Storage for dress up clothes! This blog will walk you through how to build your own hanging rack for play clothes, with a wide base for storing all those little odds and ends. Visit source…
Source: ana-white.com
Wood Crate Toy Storage
Learn how to construct a shelf using readily available wooden crates. By attaching them altogether, you get extra space for books, stuffed animals, action figures, or anything else cluttering up the floor in your children’s bedrooms. Visit source…
Source: smartschoolhouse.com
Bath Toy Organization
A tension rod, colorful plastic baskets, and a few clever clips are all you need to create this DIY bath toy storage solution. This is a very cute idea for addressing the bath toy storage conundrum. Visit source…
Source: theinspiredhome.org
Clear Toy Storage Bags
Sometimes, bags really are the easiest and most convenient way to store toys. This mom came up with a way to make clear bags with drawstring closures so that kids and parents can still see what’s on the inside.
Sewing directions on the blog. Visit source…
Source: makeit-loveit.com
Portable Kids Bookshelf
No DIY required. This lightweight, portable shelf is available from Amazon and can be shipped right to your door. We don’t always have the time or technical know-how to build things from scratch.
This is a great alternative. Visit source…
Source: amazon.com
KidSpace Toy Organizer
Here’s another ready-made solution. This rolling toy bin is large enough to accommodate some of those extra fluffy stuffed animals, but super easy to maneuver thanks to the casters on the bottom. Visit source…
Source: wayfair.com
Westcote Blue Toy Box
This is really beautiful – it looks like an heirloom piece. This ready-made toybox is available through this website and makes a quick, easy, and very attractive toy storage solution. Visit source…
Source: cotswoldco.com
Fabric Storage Cube
Those fabric storage cubes are so handy for so many things, but you can be somewhat limited in colors and patterns. Unless of course you make your own. Here’s a tutorial on how to do exactly that. Visit source…
Source: hometalk.com
Realistic Playroom Organization
I love this! This family is taking a realistic, whole room approach to organization. They don’t expect you to be a genius with sewing, carpentry, or anything else.
These are just good solid tips for how to get organized. Visit source…
Source: organizingmoms.com
Green X-Large Lego Storage Drawer
Got a Lego fan in your life? They’ll absolutely love this giant green Lego brick storage drawer. Of course, you’re welcome to store anything in it, but I tend to think it’s perfect for Legos. Visit source…
Source: containerstore.com
Unicorn Shaped Wicker Storage
Pottery Barn always comes up with the most creative stuff! This beautiful wicker basket is shaped like a unicorn, and has a perfectly neutral color theme. It will really work well in any room. Visit source…
Source: potterybarnkids.com
DIY Peek-A-Boo Toy Storage Bags
A sewing tutorial for how to create fabric bags with clear plastic panels so you can easily see what’s inside.
Pair these with a few colorful wall hooks, and boom! Everything’s up off the floor! Visit source…
Source: heytherehome.com
DIY Wooden Toy Crate
Step-by-step instructions for how to make a DIY wooden toy crate. You can make this look as rustic or as refined as you want. A good beginning carpentry project, as there aren’t too many tricky details here. Visit source…
Source: ourhomenotebook.com
Reading Nook with Storage Bins
This is amazing! A seldom used closet has been turned into a reading nook, complete with comfy bench and plenty of books storage. There is even space for toy storage bins along the bottom. Visit source…
Source: prettyhandygirl.com
Multitier Wooden Storage Shelf
Here’s a good weekend project to help get a bedroom organized. This blog will take you through this DIY how-to guide on building your own multitier wooden storage shelf.
Plenty of room for books, toys, and everything else. Visit source…
Source: familyhandyman.com
Fabric Storage Bucket
These freestanding round toy storage buckets can be easily sewn at home. I do love these storage solutions with the clear plastic panels, so kids (and you) can easily see what’s inside. Great for quick easy organization. Visit source…
Source: mellysews.com
Under Bed Storage Box
This DIY guide will show you how to create an under bed storage box with a hinged top. A bit of carpentry know-how is required, but even if you are a novice, I think this guide does a very good job of taking you through step-by-step. Visit source…
Source: familyhandyman.com
Easy, Affordable Uniform Storage
Follow along with this family as they completely redo their child’s room. They are addressing every aspect of a room renovation, including toy storage. Some really clever ideas here. Visit source…
Source: thehandmadehome.net
Suitcase Kids Toy Storage Idea
Too cute! Older style (read: flat) suitcases are painted up and converted into under bed toy storage. Super easy project, and very easy for kids to access. Plus, it adds a ton of personality to the room. Visit source…
Source: hazelwood-homes.com
Stylish DIY Toy Storage Ideas
For those who need to store toys in the living room, or anywhere else they will be on prominent display, this blog has you covered with a selection of modern and stylish toy storage solutions. Visit source…
Source: hometalk.com
Playroom Benches with Storage
This family had two challenges to address: playroom seating, and extra storage. Their solution was to build a long corner bench with individual storage compartments underneath. Best of both worlds! Visit source…
Source: daveandjoi.blogspot.com
DIY Toy Chest That Doubles As A Toy
I love it when toy storage can double as a toy itself. This DIY guide will instruct you on how to build a toybox that also serves as a city skyline backdrop for superhero missions, busy cars, or metropolitan tea parties. Visit source…
Source: shelterness.com
Flip Down Wall Art Desk
Floor space is at a premium in many homes, so I absolutely love this idea of a flip down desk, complete with space for art supply storage. It provides a nice neat workspace, without crowding the room. Visit source…
Source: ana-white.com
DIY LEGO Storage
If your child is into Legos at all, I’m willing to bet you have thousands and thousands of them in the house. This family address the problem with a really cool use of hanging buckets and a specialized play table. Visit source…
Source: b-inspiredmama.com
Hoopla
If you’re good with a sewing machine, this project might be a godsend. By combining a sturdy hoop with a sewn fabric bag, you’ve now created a clever toy storage solution which can hang right on the back of a door. Visit source…
Source: always-a-project.com
The Matchbox Organizer
This hanging car display has plenty of room for your little ones favorite vehicles, and can easily be hung over the back of the door, or on a wall. Just a little bit of sewing required to make this super adorable addition. Visit source…
Magnetic Toy Storage with Pizza Pans
So many toys are magnetic, and it can be challenging finding a safe place for them to be stored.
This mom came up with the genius idea of simply attaching a few metal pizza pans to the wall, and letting her kids stick the magnets all over them. Amazingly easy! Visit source…
Source: dollarstorecrafts.com
I am always so impressed by the clever and creative ways people are able to bring both order and fun to their kids’ playrooms.
Hopefully, somewhere in and among these dozens of excellent ideas, you found something that will work for your home.
If something on this list inspired you, please be sure to tell me about it in the comments. I can’t wait to hear about your next project.
