Everyone has their boxes or corners filled with old toys, items that once brought joy to your kids or grandkids but now only take up space. It’s perfectly normal to have memories attached to these treasures.
However, when these toys start cluttering your home or making it hard to use your living space, it might be time to rethink their place in your life.
Why Do We Hold Onto These Things?
Well, it’s because sometimes, those same old toys remind us of a happy time or a special person that is dear to us. And in other cases, you may also think that the toy can be useful again or might be worth saving for sentimental reasons.
Recognizing these feelings is the first step toward making thoughtful decisions about what to keep and what to let go.
Which Toys Are Worth Keeping, and Which Ones Should Go?
Once you have a clearer sense of why you’re holding onto certain toys, it’s time to begin sorting them.
First, it often helps to start small, perhaps with just a single shelf or a small box, so you don’t feel overwhelmed. As you pick up each toy, ask yourself if it still holds a special meaning or if it’s simply taking up space.
If you feel uncertain about a particular item, you could temporarily set it aside and come back to it later.
Next, consider whether the toy is in good shape and might be enjoyed by someone else. If a toy is broken beyond repair, it may be time to let it go entirely. However, if it’s still usable, you can consider donating it or giving it to a friend or family member.
In either case, you are passing along something that might bring joy to another child, rather than allowing it to gather dust.
Finally, keep in mind that going step by step can help you feel less stressed and more in control. Each small success, such as clearing a shelf or organizing a box of toys, can build momentum and inspire you to tackle the rest.
How to Start Decluttering and Make Real Progress
When you start to clear out old toys, it is important to create a plan.
Sometimes, simply setting aside a small space to sort toys can make the process feel a little bit more manageable. You might decide to have a “toy day” where you and your family look at the items together. This can help everyone understand why some toys might be let go.
And as you move through the collection, you might find that some toys can be donated, sold, or even passed on to other family members who might still enjoy them.
Sometimes, you might also feel uncertain or even sad as you decide to part with these items. In those moments, remember that change is a process and that small steps lead to a better-organized space.
Helping Family Members Cope with Letting Go
Now, if you find that other members of your family are having a hard time parting with these toys, it can be helpful to approach the conversation with care.
You can start by sharing why a less cluttered space might make everyone feel better. Choose a time when everyone is calm and willing to listen, so the discussion feels supportive rather than confrontational.
You can also explain to them that the goal is to create a home that is comfortable and safe for everyone, especially if the clutter is making everyday tasks more difficult.
As you work through these conversations, remember that it is okay if progress is slow. Sometimes, finding a balance between preserving memories and making space for the present can take time.
The process of letting go the things that are most dear to you or your loved ones can be gentle and gradual, and every little improvement is a win.
But, Where Should Old Toys Go?
When it comes to figuring out what to do with old toys, there are several great options to consider.
Donate to Families in Need
One option is to donate them to families in need. Many children do not have the luxury of plenty of toys, and your gently used items might bring joy to another child.
Local charities, shelters, churches, community centers, daycares, preschools, or even hospitals that accept toy donations can be wonderful places to start.
Just be sure that the toys you donate are in good condition. (that they have no missing parts, major damage, or unsafe issues)
Sell and Make Some Extra Cash
Aside from donating old toys to families in need, another great option is to sell the toys and earn a bit of extra cash.
If the toys are still in great shape, platforms like Facebook Marketplace, local buy/sell/trade groups, garage sales, or kid-focused resale stores such as Once Upon a Child or Kid to Kid can be a good choice.
In these cases, taking clear photos, writing simple descriptions, and setting fair prices can help you sell them successfully.
Repurpose or Upcycle
If you enjoy creative projects, you can consider repurposing or upcycling the toys before tossing them out.
For example, small plastic toys can be turned into DIY keychains or magnets, building blocks or figures might be used to create shadow box decor, and old toy furniture could be painted or modified for a fun mini DIY project.
This not only gives the toys a second life but also lets you explore your creative side.
Save a Few for Sentimental Reasons
Of course, not all toys have to be let go.
If a toy holds special memories to you, to your kids, or anyone in your family, you may want to keep a few as a sentimental keepsake. One thing you can do is to save only the most meaningful three to five toys and store them in a small, labeled container so they do not take up too much space.
Recycle or Dispose of Broken Toys Properly
Finally, for toys that are too damaged to donate or sell, it is important to recycle or dispose of them properly.
Some recycling centers accept plastic toys, and electronics or battery-operated toys might be taken to e-waste centers.
If a toy is unsafe or beyond repair, it is best to dispose of it responsibly rather than passing it along.
Each of these options offers a thoughtful way to handle old toys, so you can choose the best method that best suits your situation and your home.
Looking Ahead
Change rarely happens overnight. It comes from taking small, intentional steps, whether that means setting aside a few toys for donation or finding creative ways to store those that hold special memories.
By starting small and focusing on one area at a time, you gradually build momentum, paving the way for a home that feels more open and peaceful.
In the end, your GOAL shouldn’t be to erase the past but to make room for a present that is less cluttered and more enjoyable. Whether you decide to donate, sell, or repurpose old toys, every step you take is progress toward a space that better fits your current needs.
If you’re still unsure about what to keep, toss, recycle, or donate, you can consider trying out the Keep or Toss Binder.
It’s a simple tool that can help you sort through items without overwhelming you, giving you a gentle nudge in the right direction.
And inside the binder, you’ll find:
- A clear system to help you decide quickly and confidently.
- Tools to keep your sorting process organized, making it easier to track progress.
- Guides to help you preserve meaningful items while letting go of clutter.
Isn’t that what you really need?
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