31 Days To A Clutter Free Life Day 7: Toys

31 Days To A Clutter Free Life Day 7: Toys

Welcome to Day 7 of the 31 Days To A Clutter Free Life Challenge! If you want to find out what the challenge is all about or would like to read the previous posts, simply go here.

Today we’ll be focusing on de-cluttering your children’s toys. I’m lucky that my 10 year old son prefers playing with Nerf toys, board games and Legos so I don’t have a huge arsenal of toys to deal with. He currently keeps his toys in one plastic bin in his closet which has always been our rule. If it fits in the toy bin he can keep it. I know when they are younger this is much harder to do, but since he’s a little older and plays with less toys, it works for us.

If you find that your home is cluttered with your children’s toys here are some tips that might help:

One in one out:

Each time your child receives a new toy, they must donate an old toy. I do this every year around Christmas time to keep the toy clutter under control.

If it doesn’t work, toss it out:

If the toy is not in working condition get rid of it. No point in keeping toys that don’t function properly. Besides it will only create more clutter and frustrate your child.

Choose quality toys:

When purchasing a toy for your child evaluate if the toy is worthy of entering your home. There are plenty of cheap toys out there that offer no value other than a few playing hours before it falls apart.

Find alternatives:

Instead of buying toys, purchase things that will enable you to enjoy your time together as a family. Some great options are books, board games, movies, CDs and sports equipment.

Designate a storage space:

If you want kids to put away their toys, you will need to provide them with a space to do so. Make it easy for them to reach and put things away. If you make it easy and simple for them, they’ll be more likely to keep up with it.

Do you find that toys are taking over your home? I’m preparing for that season as my baby girl continues to grow. For now I’m enjoying a semi-toy free season until that time arrives. 🙂

Looking for more organization ideas? Check out the following:

If you want to join in or would like more tips for today’s challenge, check out Living Well Spending Less for more details. Let me know if you are also doing the challenge so we can cheer each other on!