Some toys are beautiful. Stunning, almost. They’re handmade, they’re wooden, they’re beautiful colors, they actually add to a space and could basically be sold as home decor even for people who don’t have any kids.
Other toys are not.
If you don’t want to see these toys lining the walls of your living room every night, we have you covered with this list of creative ways to hide toys in plain sight.
Besides this, psychologists say that having a specific place to put each toy will actually motivate kids, even toddlers, to help clean up. Win, win.
1. Woven Baskets
Woven baskets have become a popular way to store anything from pillows to blankets to your child’s toys. They fit easily in the corner of any room and can be quickly pulled out when it is time to play, and even toddlers can help clean up with these.
A few of our favorites (scroll right):
2. Benches
Benches with built-in storage are not only a clever spot to hide your little one’s toys, but they can also serve as additional seating.
3. Tiered Storage Cart
Maybe you don’t have space to store toys in the living room and need an alternative. Tiered storage carts are a fantastic way to keep the kid’s play things organized. They fit inside of most closets and can be wheeled in and out at any time.
Also, these are just generally useful —they can be used as utility carts for diaper changing stations or even breast pump stations on the go (scroll right for more!)
4. Sideboard
Toy boxes are a great way to store your little one’s toys, but they don’t always fit with the theme of your living space. Instead of using a regular toy chest, try replacing it with a decorative (and still very functional!) sideboard like the one that Anna, mother of 5, uses below.
Take a look at some we love (scroll right):
5. Coffee Tables
Coffee tables are another practical way to store toys. And perhaps more importantly, they can hold your much-needed coffee.
6. Photo Boxes
Photo boxes or secret book boxes are a smart way to store those small toys that can easily get lost, like Legos or Polly Pockets. Put them on a bookshelf to keep the floor clean and clutter free, especially if you have littler ones crawling around who might put these in their mouths.
If you like this look, consider a few similar options we found (scroll right):
7. Decorative Storage Trunk
One of our favorite ideas is using decorative storage trunks as Hajrah, mother of two, has done here. Because they come in various shapes and sizes, they can hold all different kinds of toys. Plus they can be stacked for space and convenience.
Try out this look (more if you scroll right):
8. Ottomans
Ottomans are another discreet way to stash those toys. They add flair to any room, while still maximizing your living space and offering more seating, too.
Here are some similar options (scroll right):
9. Cube Shelf with Baskets
Versatile and functional, cube shelves are one of the easiest and most cost-effective ways to corral your little one’s toys. Baskets, which can be moved or changed, tuck into each cubby for a polished look.
Take a look at some we love (for more, scroll right):
10. Don’t Worry About It
Don’t worry about the mess. Nobody’s home looks perfect every day of every week, and that means yours doesn’t have to either. In fact, that imperfection will probably help your mom friends feel at ease in your home (it’s always a relief to know you’re not the only one).
Remember to embrace the chaos every once in a while and let those Legos fly; these messy, chaotic seasons are fleeting.
