How to Choose the Right Toy Storage Solution

Finding the right toy storage solution can be harder than potty training a toddler! First of all mama, if you’re trying to both of those things right now – STOP READING. That kid is about to pee on your floor.

If that’s not the case, and you have the brain capacity to figure out how to wrangle the toys then you’ve come to the right place. Please understand, none of these systems include robots/mice who will put the toys back for you. And newsflash, if your tiny human can’t wipe their own ass, chances are it’s YOU who will be cleaning up the toys the most often. Yes you should have them help or make it a game, blah blah blah. Chances are you already know it’s so much faster when they are asleep/at Mother’s Day Out or at grandma’s house so make sure the system you choose works for YOU!

Which every you choose, the number one rule is LABEL. Label, label, label. Did we mention you need to make sure you label? Our favorite way is dual-language – whether that’s your native family language such as Vietnamese or Spanish or wouldn’t it be fun to say “poupées” (that’s dolls in French). Dual language is a fun way to learn and stay organized!

Another toy label favorite is pictures – this helps when enlisting your toddler to assist in the putting-back-the-toys game but again, isn’t, well, toddler-proof.

Ikea Trofast

Cost: Starts at $60.99
Link to buy: here

We have used this system for a few of our clients! While the backorders can be a drag this is a very kid and parent friendly system with removable bins in various sizes. It’s also super easy to label because the bins are plastic so something simple like label tape does the trick! A recent family who used this system needed 4 large units to accommodate 4 kids with varying interests! We labeled in English and Spanish since the Nanny was dual language and the oldest kids were learning Spanish in school.

-PROS: Budget friendly. Customizable with several bin sizes to choose from.
-CONS: Must use the Trofast bucket options so it sucks if they break or a size needs to be switched. Also lead times can be all over the place with IKEA product.

IKEA Kallax

Cost: $69.99
Link to buy: here

This is a very popular choice amongst our clients and even in our own homes! It’s affordable and comes in six different color options. It’s nice to be able to fit standing upright in a smaller space (for taller kids able to reach), or works well on its side for larger spaces. Again, lead times can be all over the place with IKEA product, so it can be a pain to get if you don’t live next to a store for pick-up.

–PROS: Same size cubbies for easy basket coordination. Can lay on its side or stand up. Multiple color choices.
–CONS: No back on cubbies. Not adjustable or customizable at all.

The Container Store Elfa System

Cost: $518 for full unit
Link to buy: here

This Elfa unit is a really great option if you’re wanting an open concept solution and prefer something off of the floors. Elfa systems can be added to and customized completely based on your toy storage needs, but this specific unit is pre-designed to make ordering and installation headache free. Shelves are 16″ deep so keep that in mind when purchasing bins or baskets.

-PROS: Completely customizable. Open shelves make it easy to store any size item. Easy to pick up from store or get delivered.
-CONS: Unit is attached to wall, so not ideal for moving around. Space must be at least 51″ wide.

Pottery Barn Kids Cameron Wall System

Cost: $229-519 per piece
Link to buy: here

The Cameron wall system is probably the most high-end looking option out there and can be mistaken for custom built-ins. Customize your system from a variety of options from bases, cabinets and cubbies to organize any room. These wall systems are made in a Fair Trade Certified™ factory and they are GREENGUARD Gold Certified.

–PROS: Completely customizable with many cabinet and shelving options. Looks the closet to custom built-ins.
–CONS: Most pricey option for toy storage.

Target Room Essentials Cube Organizer Shelf

Cost: $29
Link to buy: here

This Target Cube Organizer Shelf is very similar to the Ikea Kallax, it is just a smaller option with two less cubes. Three of the cubbies are open back, so again, keep in mind you could get scratched up walls and lost toys behind the unit. It is able to stand up tall or lay on its side, so the versatility with that is nice.

–PROS: Can lay on it’s side or stand straight up.
–CONS: Only half of the cubbies have backing, which makes toys easy to fall through or easy to scratch up the walls.

Walmart Better Homes & Garden Cube Storage Organizer

Cost: $87
Link to buy: here

This Walmart Cube Storage Organizer is another great option for toy storage and definitely a bang for your buck! We love that this unit has legs making it easy to clean under and no toys will be lost forever underneath! We think the legs on this unit look nice and add a more finished look than just a plain cube unit that lays on the floor. Comes in 4 colors and can be used with 13″ storage cubes.

–PROS: Raised off of the ground with attached legs.
–CONS: All cubbies are open back. Only one way to use it., cannot be stood up.

If you need some cute storage bins or baskets, head over to our newly launched shop to grab some of our favorites!