How do you store large amounts of toys?

Having a large collection of toys can be a fun hobby, but it also presents some practical storage challenges. Proper storage is key to keeping your toys organized, protected, and easy to access. Here are some tips for effectively storing a large toy collection.

Assess Your Collection

First, take stock of what you need to store. Sort your toys into broad categories like action figures, dolls, stuffed animals, building toys, board games, etc. Then consider:

• How many toys are in each category?
• What sizes and shapes are they?
• Do any require special protection or display?
• How often do you access certain toys?

This will help determine how much space you need and what storage methods will work best.

Choose Appropriate Storage Locations

When deciding where to store your toy collection, consider these factors:

• Accessibility – Store frequently used items in easy to reach places.
• Visibility – Display special toys in visible locations to enjoy them.
• Security – Keep irreplaceable toys somewhere secure.
• Climate control – Store toys in clean, dry, temperate areas.
• Space – Have enough room for your entire collection to fit comfortably.

Some possible storage spots are bookshelves, cabinets, chests, under beds, utility rooms, basements, attics, garages, or spare rooms. Closets can work for medium collections.

Choose Storage Containers

The right containers will keep your toys organized, dust-free, and damage-free. Consider:

• Plastic bins – great for grouping similar toys. Use clear bins to easily see contents.
• Bookcases – display toys and books together.
• Shelving units – freestanding units can hold bins, display cases, or oversized toys.
• Cabinets and chests – conceal toys behind doors or in drawers.
• Hanging bags – store stuffed animals and soft toys.
• Garment racks – hang costumes, accessories, or delicate toys.

Organize Toy Categories

Group similar toys together in bins, bags, or shelving sections. Some ideas:

• Action figures by brand (Marvel, Star Wars etc.)
• Dolls by size (Barbie, Monster High)
• Stuffed animals by type (bears, cats, dogs)
• Building toys by material (LEGO, wood blocks, magnet tiles)
• Puzzles and games by type (jigsaw, board game, card game)
• Vehicles by location (farm, construction site, racetrack)

Label containers clearly so you can easily find toys later. Store small pieces like accessories in labeled Ziploc bags inside bins.

Protect Fragile Toys

Prevent damage to delicate toys:

• Wrap in acid-free, non-stick tissue.
• Use archival foam, dividers, or natural cork in bins.
• Display in enclosed shadowbox frames or display cases.
• Pad shelves with non-abrasive felt cloth.
• Avoid overcrowding toys on shelves.

For extra protection, store irreplaceable toys in glass display cabinets with humidity/temperature control.

Rotate Displays

Rotate toys in and out of display to avoid light damage. Store toys not on display in darker, climate controlled locations. Every 3-6 months, cycle different toys into your main display. This keeps them protected while still allowing you to appreciate your entire collection.

Clean Regularly

Prevent dust buildup by cleaning storage areas and toys regularly:

• Dust shelves, bins, and display cases.
• Gently wipe toys with a microfiber cloth.
• Clean toys at least once per year, more as needed.
• Use vacuum attachments to remove dust from toys.
• Follow any special washing instructions for fabric toys.

Inspect for Damage

Inspect toys when cleaning for signs of wear, damage, or pests. Discard damaged packaging. Repair or dispose of damaged toys. Use cedar blocks, lavender sachets, or mothballs to deter pests in fabric toys.

Maximize Vertical Space

Use vertical space to gain more storage real estate:

• Install ceiling-height shelving.
• Stack plastic bins vertically.
• Use wall-mounted cabinets or pegboards.
• Hang toys from hooks, racks, or nets.

Add Displays Throughout Home

Incorporate toy displays beyond the main storage area:

• Display select items in bookcases, cabinets, or wall shelves in living spaces.
• Create mini-displays on shelves, desktops, or countertops.
• Highlight rare or special pieces in protected wall displays or shadowboxes.
• Showcase toys in decorative curio cabinets.

This allows you to enjoy toys in different settings without taking up all space in one room.

Maintain Spreadsheets

For large collections, maintain a detailed spreadsheet inventory with:

• Photos
• Names
• Descriptions
• Locations
• Quantities
• Purchase dates
• Current values

Update this regularly. It provides insurance documentation and helps you monitor your collection.

Consider Climate Control

For serious collectors with valuables, it may be worth investing in climate control. This regulates temperature and humidity to prevent warping, rust, mold, and pest damage. Options include:

• Central humidifiers/dehumidifiers
• Air conditioning
• Portable dehumidifiers
• Controlled heating sources
• Humidity sensor monitoring

This provides ideal storage conditions but involves added upfront and operating costs.

Ask for Help

Don’t be afraid to recruit help organizing and maintaining your collection. possibilities include:

• Hire professional organizers to set up systems.
• Enlist friends or family to assist with cleaning and inventory.
• Consult collectors associations for advice.
• Hire specialists for repairs or pest management.

The bigger your collection, the more benefit you can gain from delegating certain tasks.

Add On Down the Road

As your collection grows, be prepared to adjust storage. Options include:

• Expanding into other rooms or storage buildings.
• Adding modular shelving, cabinets, or containers.
• Building custom built-ins or cabinetry.
• Renting off-site storage units.

Leave room in your displays and storage setups to accommodate new additions in the future.

Conclusion

A large toy collection requires an organized storage strategy. By assessing your needs, choosing appropriate storage locations and containers, categorizing and protecting toys, maximizing space, maintaining inventory records, and planning for expansion, you can keep your treasured collection in great condition for years to come. With some time and effort, you can make storage a breeze so you can better enjoy your toys.