Messy bedrooms seem to come with the territory of raising children. One moment their room is spotless, and the next, it looks like a tornado hit their Legos, crayons, and stuffed animals. Children are experts at creating clutter, and for parents, staying on top of it can feel like a full-time job.
But keeping kids’ bedrooms tidy doesn’t have to be an ongoing battle. With a few simple strategies, you can help your child keep their room organised, (mostly) mess-free, and even teach them responsibility along the way. Here are ten easy ways to tackle kids’ clutter, keep things tidy, and reclaim your sanity.
1. Get Them Involved
If your child feels ownership over their room, they’re more likely to want to keep it tidy. Talk to them about why it’s important to stay organised and encourage them to make small decisions, like deciding where their toys or books should go.
Make tidying a team effort by assigning age-appropriate tasks. For younger kids, it can be as simple as putting toys in a bin. Older kids can take on tasks like folding clothes or making the bed.
The key? Celebrate their efforts, even if the results aren’t perfect. A little encouragement goes a long way in creating a positive habit.
2. Use Storage That’s Kid-Friendly
The best kids’ clutter solutions start with storage that works for little ones. Bins, baskets, and shelves within their reach make tidying up easy and accessible.
For example:
- Clear plastic bins allow them to see what’s inside without pulling everything out.
- Open shelves help books and toys stay off the floor (without needing an adult to assist).
- Colour-coded bins keep categories (like action figures, art supplies, or doll clothes) neatly separated.
Avoid overly complicated systems because they’re less likely to be used. Simple and practical always wins with kids.
3. Rotate Toys
Children often have too much stuff, and it’s overwhelming—for them and for you. Instead of leaving every toy out in their room, try toy rotation.
Here’s how it works:
- Sort toys into groups (e.g., a stack of puzzles, a box of blocks, etc.).
- Keep one group accessible for play, and store the rest in a closet or out-of-sight storage bin.
- Every couple of weeks, swap the accessible toys for a new set.
Not only does this reduce clutter, but it also keeps old toys feeling fresh and exciting.
4. Label Everything
Labels are a lifesaver when it comes to organising kids’ rooms. When everything has a clear spot, it’s easier for children to know where things go.
Use word labels for older kids and picture labels for younger ones. Stick labels on toy bins, drawers, or shelves to reinforce the habit of putting items back in their designated spots.
(This is also a sneaky way to build vocabulary for younger children!)
5. Create a Tidy-Up Routine
Kids thrive on routines, so weave tidying into their daily schedule. A five-minute “clean-up time” before bed is a great way to keep chaos in check.
To make it fun:
- Turn it into a game (like a race to see who can pick up the most toys).
- Play upbeat music during clean-up.
- Set a timer and work together until the buzzer sounds.
Consistent habits build over time, and soon, tidying up won’t feel like a chore.
6. Set Boundaries for “Stuff”
Children often accumulate an astonishing amount of belongings. Set limits to avoid overload.
For example:
- Encourage kids to donate toys they no longer use. Explain how their old toys can bring joy to another child.
- Limit the number of stuffed animals that “live” on their bed.
- Use the “one in, one out” rule for new toys or clothing.
Less stuff equals less mess, and it helps teach kids the value of decluttering.
7. Make the Bed the Centrepiece
A tidy bed makes the whole room look neater. Teach your child to make their bed each morning as part of their routine.
If they’re too little to neatly tuck in sheets, no worries. Keep it simple with a duvet they can easily pull up. Bonus points for choosing bedding they’re excited about (hello, superhero spreads or princess patterns).
8. Keep Surfaces Clear
Desk, dresser, and bedside table surfaces tend to become clutter magnets. To keep things tidy, set a rule to keep surfaces clear.
Provide specific storage solutions for items that often land there:
- A pencil cup for stray markers or crayons.
- A small box or tray on the dresser for jewellery or accessories.
- A bookshelf for stackable books instead of letting them pile up.
When kids see clear surfaces, it reinforces the habit of putting things away.
9. Declutter Together Regularly
Spend time going through their room together every few months to declutter. Use it as an opportunity to talk about what they truly love and use versus what’s just taking up space.
When kids are part of the decision-making, they’re more likely to take pride in their room (and less likely to create unnecessary clutter).
10. Reward Their Efforts
Positive reinforcement can make a huge difference. Recognise and celebrate their tidying efforts—even the small ones.
Simple rewards might include:
- Extra time watching their favourite show.
- Special stickers or a colourful chart to track their tidying progress.
- A fun activity, like baking cookies together or a trip to the park.
The goal is to link tidying with a sense of achievement, making it a habit they’ll want to keep.
Tidy Spaces, Happy Kids (and Parents)
Keeping kids’ bedrooms tidy doesn’t mean you have to nag, argue, or do it all yourself. By introducing simple storage solutions, encouraging small daily habits, and teaching the value of decluttering, you can create a space that feels organised and inviting—for you and your child.
Remember, the goal isn’t perfection; it’s progress. Start small, have a bit of fun, and watch as your child takes pride in their tidy haven.
Now, over to you. What’s your go-to strategy for keeping your child’s room tidy? Share your tips (or funny bedroom mess stories) in the comments below!
