This simple toy storage solution is a frugal way to store all those toys with small pieces!
I’ve been looking for a good toy storage solution for a while, but everything was either too expensive or looked like the sort of decor our kids would outgrow within a few years. We found these nice shoe racks at Costco for $19.99 and I knew we had a winner. These plastic shoebox bins are the same size as those used for Sue Patrick’s Workbox System. I love that they are clear so my kids can see what is inside. I’m also very happy that they have lids. My children occasionally go into Destructive Mode. Having to stop and remove a lid from each bin provides a pause to wonder if the destruction is worth the trouble – and keeps them busy for that many more minutes if they decide to continue. The lids require a certain level of dexterity to remove, so they should also keep Lily out of toys with small pieces for several months. The shelf heights are adjustable and the racks are stackable, so I see a lot of use from these units for many years.
MaryAnne is a craft loving educator, musician, photographer, and writer who lives in Silicon Valley with her husband Mike and their four children.
those lids look like a great way to keep little hands out! and I LOVE your point about having to take off lids makes them pause for thought. thanks so much!
Love clear boxes with lids for toys! Like you said, takes a bit longer for them to get into and dump.
Looks great… and so tidy! :)
That looks amazing, I wish our toys could be that organized!
Great idea…lids! I’ve got a little wrecking ball who likes to dump. I need to run out and get some LIDS stat!
That looks fantastic! Orderly, but with great kid appeal :)
I love this idea. We’re getting quite frustrated over here with our toy situation.
Your blog looks great!
Great job Maryanne! Looks good! I spent about $115 on “storage” stuff for the toys – I got 2 of those 9 cube shelves at Target when they were on sale for $34.99 ea and 8 of the bins at $5 ea. Crazy…but whatever. I love storage bins!
What great storage! Love your new blog and look too, :-)
Does your play area look like that on a regular basis? I am beyond jealous! Lids alone will not stop my daughters from pulling every toy out just for fun.
what a fabulous idea! I keep looking at the wooden storage system with the open colored boxes for like $40 but because they are titled, they aren’t great for repurposing later.
I love the way you’ve organized these toys/learning tools.
Those racks from Costco look awesome!!
We use Sue’s workbox system too and really like it.
they look great!