If your playroom is looking more like a toy explosion than a space for fun, creativity, and calm—you’re not alone. Playrooms have a way of attracting everything from puzzle pieces to party favors, and it doesn’t take long before it all feels overwhelming.
But here’s the good news: with a little time and a clear system, you can transform even the messiest playroom into a space your kids love and one that’s easy to keep up with. Let’s walk through the steps to get it done—and keep it that way.
Step 1: Start with a ruthless declutter (yes, really)
Before you think about organizing, you need to clear the clutter. Grab some bags or boxes and sort everything into four main categories:
- Keep – Toys your kids actually use and love
- Donate – Items in good condition they’ve outgrown
- Trash/Recycling – Broken toys, missing parts, worn-out favorites
- Relocate – Non-toy items that wandered in (mail, beauty products, kitchen stuff—yep, it happens!)
Pro tip: Let your child help make some of the decisions—but don’t be afraid to edit. You know which toys haven’t been touched in months.
Step 2: Group like with like
Once you’ve decluttered, it’s time to sort. Group toys and supplies into simple categories:
- Building toys (Legos, blocks)
- Pretend play (dolls, dress-up, toy kitchen)
- Art and crafts
- Puzzles and games
- Books
- Electronics
This step helps you see what you actually have—and it’ll make organizing so much easier.
Step 3: Create zones that make sense
Now that you know what’s staying, assign zones in the room:
- A cozy reading corner
- An art station with washable bins
- A building zone with an easy-to-sweep floor
- A quiet area for puzzles or solo play
You don’t need a huge space to do this. Just carve out clear areas for each activity, even if they’re side by side.
Step 4: Choose the right storage (don’t overthink it)
You don’t need a Pinterest-perfect setup—just use containers that are:
- Easy to open
- Easy to clean
- Easy to label
Try open baskets, clear bins, or cube organizers. Label everything with words or pictures so kids can help put things away without guesswork.
Step 5: Make it easy to maintain
Now for the part everyone forgets—keeping it organized! These simple habits make a big difference:
- The 10-minute tidy: Set a timer each day and clean up together.
- One in, one out: New toy in? Choose one to donate.
- Weekly reset: Once a week, take 5 minutes to straighten each zone.
- Rotate toys: Keep some items out of reach and swap them every few weeks. It keeps things fresh and cuts down on clutter.
Final thoughts: Progress over perfection
Your playroom doesn’t have to be spotless or styled like a magazine to be organized. It just needs to work for your family. Give yourself permission to start small, make it functional, and adjust as your kids grow and their interests change.
And if you’re feeling stuck or overwhelmed—we’re here to help. At Cut the Clutter RVA, we love helping families create spaces that feel calm, joyful, and easy to maintain. Reach out anytime for hands-on help or a fresh set of eyes.
Work hard and be kind!
Love,
Your friends at Cut the Clutter RVA
Not sure where to start in your playroom? Check out Real Stories. Real Spaces. for some organizing inspiration!