Let’s be real—kids come with a ton of stuff, especially toys! And if you’re always bringing in new ones without clearing out the old, they can completely take over your home. Get these easier tips on decluttering kids’ toys so you can get what they play with down to a reasonable amount.

How to Declutter the extra stuff in your home so you can make room for the things you need and use.

What is a Reasonable Amount of Toys?

Well, that really depends on your family, your child’s age, and their interests—it’s not a one-size-fits-all answer.

Start by thinking about how much space you’ve got for toy storage. If space is tight, you’ll need to keep the toy collection on the smaller side. But if you’ve got room to spare, you can afford to be a bit more flexible.

Also, consider how often your child actually plays with their toys. If some only get occasional love, try rotating them in and out. This keeps things fresh and helps avoid the dreaded toy clutter.

At the end of the day, a reasonable amount of toys is one that lets your child have fun and spark their imagination—without leaving everyone buried in stuff.

Decluttering Kids’ Toys Without Tears

Toys can bring so much joy and creativity into a child’s life—but let’s face it, they can also turn your home into a chaotic mess if you’re not careful. Decluttering your child’s toys might feel overwhelming, especially if you’re worried about upsetting them.

But with the right approach, you can pare things down while teaching your kids the value of simplicity and organization.

Tackle the toy mountain without drama and keep the remaining treasures neat, safe, and ready for play.

Paring Down the Toys Without Upsetting Your Kids

Here’s the secret to decluttering without meltdowns: make it feel like a team effort instead of a punishment. Kids are more likely to go along with the process if they feel involved and respected.

• Have a Conversation – Start by having an age-appropriate discussion with your child. Explain that you’re making space for them to enjoy their favorite toys and that some toys might be better off making other kids happy who need them. Framing it positively can make the process feel less intimidating.
• Set Goals Together – Work with your child to set a goal. For instance, you could say, “We’ll keep enough toys to fit in this toy bin” or “We’ll pick 10 stuffed animals you absolutely love.” With clear limits, trimming down feels like a fun challenge instead of a command.
• Use a Selection Process – For younger kids, turn it into a game, for older kids, give a guided plan. Lay out all the toys and create piles for “Keep,” “Share,” and “Undecided.” Give your child the role of “expert toy reviewer” while you guide them gently. This makes the activity feel interactive and less like you’re just taking their stuff away.

What to Keep and What to Get Rid Of

Deciding what stays and what goes is the trickiest part for everyone involved. Use these questions to make the process easier for both you and your child:

• Is it a favorite? Does your child play with it regularly? If it’s collecting dust, it may be time to say goodbye.
• Is it age-appropriate? If your child has outgrown a toy, it’s a clear candidate for removal.
• Is it broken or missing pieces? Damaged toys might not be worth the space they take up.
• Is it a memory they cherish? Some toys hold special sentimental value (for both you and your child). Keep those few cherished items and limit “maybe” toys to a small pile.

Where to Send Old Toys

Now that you’ve got a pile of toys ready to go, what’s next? Luckily, there are plenty of great options to give your old toys a new life.

• Donate to local charities, shelters, or thrift stores like Goodwill or the Salvation Army. Call ahead to make sure they accept toys.
• Give to Friends or Family if you know someone with younger kids who would love them.
• Toy Recycling Programs for items like broken plastic toys. Research local recycling events or services in your area.
• Hospitals, Schools, or Libraries often appreciate high-quality toys for children.
• Holiday Toy Drives are perfect for donating during the giving season. Call first to see if they take gently used toys.
• Sell the best stuff online, at a consignment shop, or at a yard sale. This is great for getting rid of items that are in good condition and can make some extra money.

How to Make This a Positive Experience for Kids

Decluttering can teach your kids valuable lessons about generosity, gratitude, and responsibility. Here are a few ways to keep things fun and upbeat:

• Talk About Helping Others – Help your child understand that by giving away some of their toys, they’re making room for another child to enjoy them. Use phrases like, “This toy could make another child so happy!”
• Celebrate Their Efforts – After decluttering, reinforce their sense of accomplishment and show them that simplifying can feel good.
• Give Them Control – Whenever possible, give your child the final say in what stays and what goes. Empowering them makes the process feel more positive and less stressful.

Storage Solutions to Keep Toys Neat and Safe

Now that you’ve narrowed down the toys to a more reasonable amount, it’s time to create an organization system that works.

• Bins and Baskets – Use labeled bins or baskets for different categories of toys, like blocks, stuffed animals, or puzzles. This keeps items easy to find and put away.
• Toy Box or Storage Ottomans – A classic toy chest or a storage bench with a lid can hide toys while doubling as seating.
• Clear Containers – Transparent storage boxes make it easy to see what’s inside without rummaging. Plus, stackable ones save space.

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• Under-the-Bed Storage – For seldom-used toys or rotating collections, consider flat storage bins that slide right under the bed.
• Wall Shelves and Hanging Storage – Use the vertical space in your child’s room. Hang shelves for books and games, a net for stuffed animals, or frames to display their art.
• Cubby Systems – Cubby shelves with pull-out baskets are great for any age. You can even label each compartment for specific toys with words or photos to encourage your kids to put the right things in the right container.

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Toy Rotations: Less Clutter, More Fun

Let’s face it—picking up toys every day can feel like a never-ending chore, and kids seem to lose interest in their toys faster than you can say “clean up.” Toy rotations are a good solution, especially for kids that are a little younger.

How to Rotate Toys

1. Grab a Few Totes – Get 2-3 sturdy storage bins or totes to hold the toys you’re not using.
2. Sort the Toys – Divide your child’s toys into 2-3 groups. Try to mix up the types of toys in each pile—think puzzles, stuffed animals, and building blocks—so each rotation feels fresh and exciting.
3. Pack and Store – Leave one pile out for your child to play with and pack the rest into the totes. Store them somewhere out of sight, like a closet or under the bed.
4. Swap Monthly – Every month (or whenever your child seems bored), swap out the current toys for a new batch from the totes. It’s like giving them a whole new set of toys without spending a dime.

Toy rotations not only keep clutter under control but also make playtime more engaging for your little ones.

Decluttering kids’ toys doesn’t have to be stressful or overwhelming for anyone. With the right mindset, a family-focused approach, and some clever storage solutions, you can create a less messy and more organized space where your child can play and have fun.

Plus, you’ll be teaching them valuable lessons about sharing and responsibility along the way.

More Decluttering Tips:

• Home Decluttering Hacks
• The Best Way to Declutter
• How to Fix a Cluttered Room