10 practical tips to help you declutter your children’s toys without causing a meltdown

If you’re a parent, you know that kids and clutter can sometimes go hand in hand. Toys seem to multiply overnight, and finding a place for them can feel like an impossible task. But fear not, there are ways to declutter your children’s toys and create a more organized and enjoyable space for everyone.

Here are 10 tips to help you declutter your children’s toys:

1. Start with a plan: Before you dive into the decluttering process, take some time to think about what you want to achieve. Set goals and establish a clear plan of action to guide you.
2. Get your kids involved: When it comes to decluttering their toys, it’s important to get your children involved. Explain to them why it’s important to keep their space organized and let them have a say in what stays and what goes.
3. Set limits: Establishing limits on the number of toys your children can have can help keep clutter at bay. Encourage them to donate or sell toys they no longer play with to make room for new ones.
4. Organize by category: Grouping toys by category can make it easier to find and put things away. Store similar toys together in labeled containers or bins.
5. Keep what sparks joy: Taking a page from the Marie Kondo playbook, keep only the toys that truly spark joy for your children. Encourage them to let go of items that no longer bring them happiness.
6. Rotate toys: If your children have too many toys to keep out at once, consider rotating them. Store some toys away and bring out new ones every few weeks to keep things fresh and exciting.
7. Involve a professional organizer: If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the task of decluttering your children’s toys, don’t hesitate to seek help from a professional organizer. They can offer expert advice and guidance to make the process easier.
8. Find creative storage solutions: Investing in storage solutions that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing can make all the difference. Look for storage options that fit well into your home’s interior and keep toys easily accessible.
9. Donate or sell outgrown toys: As your children grow, it’s inevitable that they will outgrow certain toys. Instead of keeping them stored away, consider donating or selling them to make room for new creations.
10. Make organizing a regular habit: Lastly, remember that organizing is an ongoing process. Make it a habit to regularly declutter and organize your children’s toys to keep the clutter at bay.

By following these tips, you can create a clutter-free and enjoyable space for your children. Remember, it’s about finding a balance and creating a space that works well for your family. Good luck!

10 tips for decluttering toys

When it comes to organizing your children’s toys, decluttering can be a daunting task. However, with these 10 tips, you can effectively declutter their toys and create a more organized and clutter-free home.

1. Dedicate storage space: One of the first tips for decluttering toys is to dedicate a specific storage space for them. This will help you and your children know where their toys belong and keep them organized.
2. Set limits: Another important tip is to set limits on the number of toys your children can have. By doing so, you can prevent them from accumulating too many toys and ensure they only keep their favorites.
3. Involve your children: When decluttering, involve your children in the process. Explain to them the importance of keeping their toys organized and ask for their help in deciding which toys to keep and which ones to donate or throw away.
4. Store outgrown toys: If your children have outgrown certain toys but you’re not ready to part with them yet, consider storing them. This way, you can keep them for your next child or give them away at a later time.
5. Use an organizer: Utilize storage organizers such as bins, baskets, or shelves to keep toys in their designated places. This will make it easier to find and put away toys, as well as keep them organized.
6. Create a rotating system: If you’re dealing with a large collection of toys, consider creating a rotating system. Only keep a portion of the toys accessible to your children at a time, and switch them out every few weeks. This will create the illusion of new toys without the clutter.
7. Donate or sell unwanted toys: For toys that your children no longer play with or have lost interest in, consider donating or selling them. This will not only free up space in your home but also benefit others who may enjoy them.
8. Keep up with latest trends: Stay updated with the latest toy trends. By doing so, you can avoid unnecessary purchases and prevent toys from piling up.
9. Get professional advice: If you’re struggling with decluttering and organizing toys, consider seeking advice from a professional organizer. They can provide expert tips and guidance tailored to your specific needs.
10. Make decluttering a regular task: Finally, make decluttering a regular task in your household. Set a specific day or time each month to declutter and organize your children’s toys. This will help you stay on top of the clutter and maintain an organized home.

By following these 10 tips for decluttering toys, you can create a more organized and clutter-free space for your children to play in. Remember, a clean and organized environment not only brings peace of mind but also allows your children to appreciate and enjoy their toys to the fullest.

1 Start with the easiest decluttering tasks

When it comes to decluttering toys, it’s always best to start with the easiest tasks. This will help you build momentum and make progress without feeling overwhelmed. By tackling the simpler decluttering tasks first, you can motivate yourself to continue with more challenging ones.

There are several great reasons to begin with simple decluttering tasks. First, it allows you to quickly see some progress, which can be a great confidence booster. Second, it helps you clear out space and create a more organized environment, making it easier to move on to more complicated tasks later on. Lastly, starting with the easier tasks gives you a sense of accomplishment and helps you build momentum to tackle the more difficult areas.

So, where should you start? Begin by decluttering toys that are no longer used or loved by your children. Look for toys that are broken, missing parts, or simply outgrown. These toys can be donated to a local charity or passed on to another family who could use them. Clearing out these toys not only helps declutter your home, but it also gives the toys a chance to bring joy to another child.

Next, dedicate some time to decluttering toys that have been outgrown. These toys may hold sentimental value, but if they’re no longer played with, it might be time to let them go. You can consider storing a few treasured items, but limit yourself to a specific space or container to avoid cluttering up your home again.

Another easy decluttering task is to go through board games or puzzles and make sure all the pieces are intact. If there are missing pieces, make a note to either find replacements or recycle the games. It’s best to store these items in a specific area where they can be easily accessed and enjoyed.

By starting with these simple decluttering tasks, you’ll be on your way to a more organized and enjoyable space for your children. Remember, decluttering doesn’t have to be overwhelming – take it one step at a time and celebrate the progress you make along the way.

2 Declutter little and often

Dedicating regular time to decluttering is a key strategy for keeping your children’s toys under control. Instead of waiting for a huge mess to accumulate, start the process of decluttering in small increments. By setting aside just a few minutes each day or a few hours each week, you can make a significant impact on reducing toy clutter.

July is a good time to start implementing this habit since the next school year is just around the corner. By decluttering little by little during the summer, you can make sure your child’s play area is tidy and organized by the time school starts.

By submitting yourself to regular decluttering sessions, you teach your children a valuable lesson in taking care of their belongings. If they see you actively working to clear out unnecessary toys and create order, they are more likely to adopt the same mindset and help out as well.

One effective way to do this is by setting up a designated area in the house for toys to be kept. Designate a specific shelf or bin for toys that your child has outgrown or no longer plays with. Encourage your child to go through their toys on a regular basis and identify any items that they no longer need or want. This will create a sense of responsibility and ownership over their possessions.

If you find it hard to get started on your own, consider hiring a professional organizer. They can offer expert tips and guidance on how to declutter effectively and create a more organized and functional space for your child’s toys.

Remember that decluttering little and often is a key rule to live by when it comes to organizing children’s toys. It doesn’t have to be a daunting task if you break it down into smaller, manageable steps. By dedicating regular time to decluttering, you can create a more peaceful and enjoyable environment for your child to play in.

3 Make it fun

Decluttering toys doesn’t have to be a boring or tedious task. In fact, getting your kids involved can make the process more enjoyable and exciting for everyone. Here are some tips to make decluttering toys a fun activity:

1. Turn it into a game

Make a game out of decluttering toys to keep your kids engaged and motivated. For example, you can set a timer and challenge them to collect as many toys as they can within a certain time frame. The one who collects the most toys wins a small prize or gets to choose a special activity for the day.

2. Sort toys into categories

Have your kids sort their toys into different categories, such as dolls, action figures, building blocks, etc. This not only makes the decluttering process more organized but also helps children develop their sorting and categorization skills. You can also turn this into a fun learning activity by asking them to count how many toys they have in each category.

3. Create a donation box

Explain to your children the importance of helping others and giving to those in need. Encourage them to pick out toys that they no longer play with or have outgrown and place them in a special donation box. Talk about the joy someone else might experience from receiving these toys and how they are spreading happiness by donating them.

4. Get creative with storage solutions

Involve your kids in choosing storage solutions for their toys. Let them pick out colorful bins or boxes that they find visually appealing. This can make the process of organizing and storing toys more exciting and personalized for them. You can also label the storage containers together, using pictures or words, to make it easier for your children to find and put away their toys.

5. Reward your kids

Make decluttering toys a rewarding experience for your children. Promise them a special treat or outing once the task is completed. This can act as an incentive for them to stay focused and motivated. It’s important to celebrate their efforts and acknowledge their hard work in decluttering their toys.

By making decluttering toys a fun and interactive activity, you can teach your children valuable organizing skills and instill in them the importance of keeping their living space clean and clutter-free. Remember, the goal is not only to declutter their toys but also to create a positive and enjoyable environment for them to play and grow in.

4 Hold on to decluttered toys for a few weeks

Once you’ve gone through the process of decluttering and organizing your children’s toys, it can be tempting to get rid of everything right away. However, it’s important to think twice before completely parting with the toys your children no longer play with.

Leaving the decluttered toys in a designated area for a few weeks can help you and your children adjust to the new toy collection. This easy step can also be a great opportunity to see if your children start requesting certain toys that you were planning to get rid of.

Just because a toy hasn’t been played with recently doesn’t mean it won’t be loved in the future. Children’s interests change and evolve over time, so what they may have been uninterested in a few months ago might suddenly become their most treasured possession.

According to professional organizer and toy collection expert, it’s important to keep in mind that you’re not just decluttering for yourself, but also for your children. By involving them in the decluttering process, you’re teaching them the importance of organization and giving them a sense of ownership over their belongings.

When you’re decluttering, always ask your children for their input on what toys they want to keep and what they’re ready to let go of. This makes them feel heard and respected, and it also helps them understand the value of their toys. It’s a good idea to set limits as well, so they learn that there’s always a storage limit and the importance of prioritizing their most loved toys.

By holding on to decluttered toys for a few weeks, you’re giving yourself and your children the opportunity to think it through. If, after this trial period, no one has missed or asked for a particular toy, then it’s safe to say that it can be donated or passed on to someone else who will love it.

However, if your children have been asking for a specific toy during this time, then it’s a good idea to bring it back into their toy collection. This process allows you to avoid the constant back-and-forth of getting rid of toys and then regretting it later.

Remember, the goal of decluttering is not just to get rid of toys, but rather to create a space that is organized and filled with toys that your children truly love and play with. Holding on to decluttered toys for a few weeks can help you achieve this goal.

5 Instil a toy rotation system

One great way to manage your child’s toys and keep their playtime enjoyable is to implement a toy rotation system. This will help prevent clutter and ensure that your child’s toys are being used and appreciated.

So, what exactly is a toy rotation system? Let me explain. Instead of leaving all of your child’s toys out and available for play, you can choose to rotate their toys. This means that only a portion of their toy collection will be accessible at any given time, while the rest is stored away.

When it’s time to rotate the toys, you can involve your child by letting them choose which toys they’d like to keep out for the next rotation. This ensures that they have some control over the toys they get to play with, and also helps them learn the importance of making choices and limits.

Toy rotation can be done on a weekly or monthly basis, depending on what works best for you. You can dedicate a specific area in your home for the current toy rotation, whether it’s a shelf, a bin, or a designated play area.

The benefits of toy rotation are many. Not only does it keep your child’s play area and toy collection more organized, but it also helps prevent them from getting overwhelmed with too many toys at once. It allows them to fully appreciate and enjoy the toys that are currently available, while still keeping their interest and excitement for the toys that will be brought back out in the next rotation.

Additionally, toy rotation is an effective way to start dealing with the constant influx of new toys. With birthdays, holidays, and other occasions, children can quickly accumulate a large collection of toys. By implementing a toy rotation system, you can limit the number of toys that are out at any given time, making it easier for your child to manage and play with their toys.

Involving your child in the toy rotation process can also teach them the value of taking care of their belongings. When they have to think about what toys to put away and what toys to bring out, they become more aware of the items they have and are more likely to take good care of them. This can also help prevent them from quickly losing interest in their toys and constantly wanting new ones.

So, if you find your home constantly cluttered with toys and your children feeling overwhelmed, implementing a toy rotation system might be the solution. It can help you keep the toy collection under control while still allowing your children to enjoy their playtime to the fullest.

6 Don’t hold on to toys for your own sake

When it comes to decluttering toys, it’s important to keep in mind that the process isn’t just about organizing and getting rid of items. It also involves letting go of your own attachment to these toys. As an expert in home organization, I can offer some advice on why it’s important to not hold on to toys for your own sake.

There’s no point in keeping toys that are no longer used or loved by your children. If you find yourself holding on to toys simply because they bring back memories or because you hope they might be useful in the future, it’s time to let go. Keeping toys that your children no longer play with only takes up valuable space and makes it harder to declutter effectively.

As an interior organizer and mother myself, I understand the desire to hold onto your children’s creations or toys that were once their favorites. However, it’s important to set limits and not let these sentimental items take over your home. You can still keep a few special toys or art projects without going overboard. Dedicate a designated storage area for these sentimental items, and when it starts to overflow, make the difficult decision to let go of some.

Although it may be challenging, it’s important to explain to your children the importance of decluttering and letting go of toys they no longer use or need. Teach them that keeping a collection of toys that are no longer played with can take away from the joy of having a few beloved toys that they truly enjoy. Encourage them to donate or pass on toys to other children who will appreciate them.

It’s also worth considering the impact of holding on to toys for your own sake. When you keep toys that are no longer relevant or loved, you’re not only cluttering up your home but also sending the message that it’s okay to hold on to things that no longer serve a purpose. This can hinder your children’s ability to let go of things as they grow and develop.

Don’t underestimate the psychological impact of decluttering and letting go of toys. It can bring a feeling of freedom and peace, knowing that you are not tied down by material possessions. By following the experts’ advice and not holding on to toys for your own sake, you can create a space that is conducive to play, learning, and growth for your children.

7 Explain the importance of sharing

When it comes to decluttering toys, there is an important lesson for our children to learn: the importance of sharing. Explain to your kids why it is important to share their toys with others.

By involving your children in the decluttering process, they will understand that there are children out there who may not have as many toys as they do. Teach them that sharing their toys can bring joy to others and make someone else’s day.

Leave them with the thought that by donating their toys, they are giving other children the chance to enjoy and play with the toys that they have outgrown.

One way to do this is to introduce them to organizations or charities that accept toy donations. Show them pictures or videos of children who are less fortunate and explain how their toys could bring happiness to those children.

It’s important for children to learn how to let go of things and think about others. By explaining the importance of sharing, you can instill these values in your children while also decluttering their toy collection.

Keep in mind that decluttering and sharing should be an ongoing practice. Encourage your children to periodically go through their toys and donate those that they no longer play with.

8 Take pictures of toys you’re not keeping

When it comes to decluttering toys, taking pictures can be a helpful strategy. This is especially true if your children have a sentimental attachment to certain toys but you simply don’t have the space to keep them all.

By taking pictures of the toys your children are not keeping, you are still preserving the memories without taking up physical space in your home.

Here are a few reasons why taking pictures of toys can be a great way to declutter:

1. It makes the decluttering process more enjoyable for your children. They can take an active role in deciding which toys to keep and can feel a sense of control over their belongings.
2. According to experts, taking pictures can help children let go of toys they no longer play with. Having a photo of a toy can serve as a reminder of the happy memories associated with it, making it easier to say goodbye.
3. When you take pictures, there’s no need to worry about where to store all those excess toys. Photos can easily be stored on a computer or in a digital album, taking up minimal space.
4. By creating a digital inventory of toys, you can easily keep track of what your children have. This can prevent you from accidentally purchasing duplicate toys in the future.

Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to taking pictures of toys:

1. Gather all the toys that your children are not keeping and find a well-lit area to photograph them.
2. Arrange the toys in a way that makes them look appealing and presentable.
3. Take clear, high-quality photos of each toy from different angles.
4. Organize the photos on your computer or in a digital album, labeling each toy accordingly.

Remember, the goal is to create a visual reminder of the toys your children no longer have, so it’s important to take clear and detailed photos.

While taking pictures of toys may seem like a small task, it can make a big difference in the decluttering process. Not only does it help your children let go of toys they no longer need, but it also allows them to hold on to the memories associated with those toys.

Next time you’re feeling overwhelmed by the sheer number of toys in your home, consider taking pictures of the toys you’re not keeping. It’s a simple and effective way to declutter while still preserving the memories.

9 Dedicate space for favorite creations

When it comes to decluttering toys, one area that can be challenging to tackle is your child’s collection of favorite creations. Whether it’s their artwork, crafts, or models, these items hold a special place in their hearts and it’s important to find a way to keep them without cluttering up your home.

One effective solution is to dedicate a specific space for your child’s favorite creations. This can be a section on a shelf, a designated drawer, or even a small table or desk where they can proudly display their work. By giving these creations a dedicated space, you show your child that their artistic endeavors are valued and important.

A professional organizer can be of great help in creating a space that is both functional and enjoyable for your child. They can offer advice on how to arrange and display the creations, making it easy for your child to find and appreciate their work.

When dedicating space for favorite creations, it’s important to set a limit. Discuss with your child how much space they have for their creations and encourage them to only keep their most cherished pieces. This will help prevent the area from becoming too cluttered and overwhelming.

If your child’s collection starts to outgrow the dedicated space, it may be time to have a conversation about decluttering. Sit down with your child and go through the items together, explaining the importance of letting go of some things to make room for new creations. This can be a good opportunity to teach your child about cleaning and organizing, as well as the benefits of decluttering.

However, be aware that what might seem like clutter to you may hold significant sentimental value to your child. It’s important to respect their attachment to certain items and find a balance between decluttering and preserving their treasured creations.

One simple way to declutter without completely getting rid of items is to take photographs of your child’s creations. This allows you to store the memories without taking up physical space. You can create a digital album or even print out the photos and create a scrapbook.

Another option is to involve your child in the storage process. Teach them how to properly store their creations, whether it’s using clear plastic bins, folders, or portfolios. This will not only help keep the items organized but also give your child a sense of responsibility in taking care of their artwork.

In summary, dedicating space for your child’s favorite creations is a great way to keep their artwork and crafts without letting them take over your home. Set a limit, involve your child in the storage process, and teach them the importance of decluttering. With these tips, you can maintain a clean and organized space while still preserving the things your child loves.

10 Establish a set of limits going forwards

When it comes to organizing toys, it’s important to establish a set of limits going forward. This means setting boundaries and guidelines for what toys are allowed in your home and how many you’re willing to keep. These limits will help prevent the accumulation of excessive toys in the future and keep your household more organized.

Here are some tips to help you establish these limits:

1. Dedicate a specific storage space: Designate a specific area or room in your home to store toys. This will help keep them organized and contained in one place.
2. Set a maximum number of toys: Determine the maximum number of toys your child can have at any given time. This will help prevent the collection from getting out of control.
3. Regularly declutter: Make it a habit to regularly declutter your child’s toy collection. Set aside time every few months to go through the toys and remove any that are broken, unused, or no longer age-appropriate.
4. Involve your child: Explain to your child the importance of having a set number of toys and involve them in the decluttering process. Let them choose which toys they want to keep and which ones they’re willing to part with.
5. Limit the number of new toys: Be mindful of how many new toys you bring into your home. Instead of constantly buying new toys, consider encouraging other forms of play or learning.
6. Follow the “one in, one out” rule: For every new toy your child receives, have them choose one toy to donate or give away. This will help maintain a balance and prevent the collection from growing too large.
7. Donate or sell unused toys: Instead of keeping unused toys in storage, consider donating or selling them. This not only helps declutter your home but also gives someone else the opportunity to enjoy them.
8. Keep up with current trends: Stay informed about current toy trends and interests. This will help you make more informed decisions about what toys to bring into your home and what toys your child is likely to enjoy and play with.
9. Consult an organizing expert: If you’re feeling overwhelmed or unsure about how to establish and maintain toy limits, consider consulting an organizing expert. They can offer guidance and tips specific to your situation.
10. Remember the benefits: Remind yourself of the benefits of having fewer toys. A more organized home can create a sense of calm and make it easier to find and enjoy toys that are truly loved and cherished.

By establishing a set of limits going forward, you can create a more organized and enjoyable space for both you and your child. Remember, it’s not about depriving your child of toys, but rather about creating a manageable and clutter-free environment that promotes creative play and learning.

How do I get rid of a lot of toys

When you have a lot of toys cluttering up your home, it can be overwhelming to figure out how to get rid of them. But with some simple strategies and a bit of organization, you can tackle the task and create a more streamlined and clutter-free space for your children.

1. Assess the current toy collection

The first step is to take a good look at what toys your children currently have. Sort them into categories such as “keep,” “donate,” and “throw away.” This will help you see how many toys you’re dealing with and make it easier to decide which ones to get rid of.

2. Set limits

It’s important to set limits on the number of toys your children can have. This will not only reduce clutter but also teach them the value of having fewer possessions. Decide on a reasonable number of toys and stick to it.

3. Get the kids involved

When decluttering toys, it’s important to get your children involved in the process. Explain to them that there are other children who don’t have as many toys and that by donating some, they can help bring joy to others.

4. Start small

If you’re overwhelmed by the amount of toys you have to deal with, start small. Choose one category of toys to tackle first, such as stuffed animals or board games. This will make the task feel more manageable.

5. Seek expert advice

If you’re not sure where to start or how to organize the toys, seek the advice of a professional organizer. They can offer tips and guidance on how to declutter and create storage solutions that work for your space.

6. Donate or sell

When getting rid of toys, you have several options. You can donate them to a local charity or children’s organization, sell them online or at a garage sale, or give them to friends or family members with younger children.

7. Consider storage options

When you’re deciding what toys to keep, consider whether you have appropriate storage options. If space is limited, it may be necessary to get creative with storage solutions such as bins, shelves, or under-bed storage.

8. Don’t follow trends

It’s easy to get caught up in the latest toy trends, but it’s important to resist the temptation. Children’s interests change quickly, and what may be popular one month may be forgotten the next. Stick to timeless toys that encourage creativity and imagination.

9. Be mindful of sentimental value

Some toys may have sentimental value or be special creations your children made. It’s okay to keep a few of these, but set limits. Only keep the ones that hold the most meaning and find creative ways to display or store them.

10. Keep the end goal in mind

Remember that the end goal is to create a clutter-free and organized space for your children to play and learn. By getting rid of excess toys and dedicating yourself to regular decluttering, you can achieve this and create a happier and more organized home.

How do you get rid of toys without feeling guilty

Decluttering toys can be a daunting task for any parent. It’s not easy to part with your child’s beloved toys, but it’s a necessary step in organizing and creating a clutter-free home. If you find yourself struggling with guilt when it comes to getting rid of toys, here are some tips to help you navigate this process:

1. Start with a plan: Before you begin decluttering, create a plan of action. Decide on the criteria for what stays and what goes, such as broken toys or toys that haven’t been played with in months.
2. Involve your child: Getting your child involved in the decluttering process can help them understand the importance of keeping things organized. Explain to them that there are children who may benefit from their toys, and encourage them to choose toys they no longer play with to donate or give away.
3. Set limits: If you find it difficult to let go of toys, set limits on how many toys your child can keep. This will help you declutter without feeling overwhelmed or guilty.
4. Consider sentimental value: It’s okay to keep a few toys that hold sentimental value, such as a favorite stuffed animal or a toy that has been passed down through generations. Just be mindful of not keeping too many sentimental items that can contribute to clutter.
5. Donate or sell: Instead of throwing away toys, consider donating them to a local charity or selling them online. This way, you can feel good knowing that your child’s toys are going to a good cause or getting a second life with another child.
6. Follow the latest trends: If you’re unsure about what toys to keep or get rid of, consult with a professional organizer or an interior design expert. They can provide you with insights on the latest trends and help you make informed decisions about what toys to keep or let go of.
7. Keep the future in mind: Remember that decluttering is not just about getting rid of toys but also creating a more organized and functional space for your child. Keeping this in mind can make the process more enjoyable and less guilt-inducing.
8. Focus on the positives: Instead of dwelling on the guilt of getting rid of toys, focus on the positive outcome that comes with decluttering. A more organized home will benefit both you and your child in the long run.
9. Get creative with storage: If you find it difficult to part with certain toys, find creative and practical storage solutions that can help keep your child’s toy collection organized and manageable. Invest in shelves, bins, or baskets to keep toys neatly organized and easily accessible.
10. Seek support: If you’re still struggling with guilt even after following the above advice, don’t be afraid to seek support from other parents or friends. They may have gone through a similar experience and can provide you with words of encouragement or useful tips to deal with the emotions associated with decluttering.

Remember, decluttering toys is a great way to create a more organized and manageable space for your child to play and grow. It’s okay to let go of toys that are no longer used or loved, and doing so can bring a sense of peace and order to your home.