How to Organize Your Toy Bin

A simple, step-by-step guide to help you clear the clutter and find your favorite toys faster. HowTo: Family Edition: family how-tos that actually help.

1. Clear the floor. Take every single toy out of your bin and spread them out on the floor so you can see everything you have.
2. Sort by type. Create piles for different kinds of toys. For example, put all your building blocks in one pile, all your figures or dolls in another, and all your cars or wheels in a third.
3. Check the condition. Look at each toy in your piles. If something is broken and cannot be fixed, ask a grown-up if it should go in the trash or recycling bin.
4. Assign homes. Put each pile into its own box or section of the bin. If you want, use stickers or labels so you remember where each type of toy lives.