How to Organize a Toy Shelf

Designate the purpose for each toy shelf, such as for storing action figures, miniature cars, comic books or craft supplies. Do not allow the shelf to be a catchall for toy clutter.

Remove everything from the toy shelf, if it is already in use. Toss or recycle all toys and items that are useless or broken.

Sort and coordinate the toys into categories. For example, store miniature cars by color and comic books by characters or publisher.

Purchase totes, baskets, zip-closure bags or containers to store multiple items on the shelf. This process keeps sets of toys from getting separated.

Place labels on the shelf or the totes. This makes it easier for your child to find her toys and to replace them on the shelf. It also helps her to learn to read the labels.

Screw hooks into the bottom of the toy shelf, if it is high enough, to hang costumes, backpacks or canvas bags.

Clean and organize the shelf periodically. Instruct your child to avoid adding items that do not belong on the shelf.