Note: I am not a professional and do not claim to be an expert. Please be sure to always read instructions for all tools and products. Safety is very important and should be your top priority. Wear necessary protection when using tools (eye wear, hearing protection, gloves, etc.) and dust masks when sanding or cutting. Sarah Flips It is not responsible for any injury or damage. All of my designs are not professionally designed and are for private use only.
Keep toy chaos under control! Learn how to build a DIY toy closet, organize bins with free printable labels, and make cleanup fun and easy for kids.
Table of Contents
DIY Labels for Kids’ Toy Bins + How to Build a Toy Closet
If your kids’ toys are taking over the house, you’re not alone! Between Paw Patrol, magnetic blocks, play food, and those tiny little figurines, it can feel impossible to keep things organized. That’s why I created this easy DIY toy closet system—complete with simple, printable labels—that makes cleanup quick and fun for the whole family.
Not only does this system keep toys sorted, but it also teaches kids independence. When everything has a labeled bin, they know exactly where it belongs!
DIY Labels for Kids’ Toy Bins + How to Build a Toy Closet
Supplies You’ll Need
- Clear plastic bins with lids (I used Hefty bins)
- White sticker paper or cardstock
- Printer
- Paper trimmer or scissors
- Laminator (optional for durability)
- Tape or adhesive if not using sticker paper
Labels are the secret weapon of any organized toy closet. They make it clear what goes where, so kids (and grown-ups!) can find and return toys easily.
Step 1: Choose Categories
Think about the toys your kids play with most. Popular categories include: Play Food, Paw Patrol, Magnetic Blocks, Animals, Ninja Turtles, and Toy Story.
Step 2: Design Your Labels
Keep it simple with bold, black text on a white background. Kids recognize words faster when they’re clear and easy to read.
Step 3: Print and Cut
Print your labels on sticker paper or cardstock. Cut them out neatly.
Step 4: Laminate (Optional)
If you want your labels to last, run them through a laminator before attaching.
Step 5: Attach to Bins
Stick or tape the labels to the front of each bin so they’re easy to see.
How to Build a Toy Closet for Bins
Now, let’s talk about the closet itself! Having a dedicated spot for toy bins makes all the difference. Here’s how you can build one like mine:
Supplies Needed:
- Closet space or an empty wall nook
- Pre-cut shelving boards (or have them cut to size at your local hardware store)
- Sturdy wall brackets
- Drill + screws
- Level
- Measuring tape
Step-by-Step to Build a toy closet for bins:
Step 1: Measure Your Space
Determine the desired height and width of your toy closet shelves. Measure your bins to make sure they’ll fit comfortably.
Step 2: Mark the Bracket Placement
Using a level, mark even lines on both walls where each shelf will sit. Make sure the spacing between shelves allows enough height for your bins.
Step 3: Install the Brackets
Drill brackets into the wall studs for maximum support. (Use wall anchors if studs aren’t available.)
Step 4: Cut & Place Shelves
Lay your shelving boards across the brackets. Screw them into place.
Step 5: Add Bins
Slide your labeled bins onto the shelves. Group similar items together for easy access.
Step 6: Style the space
Keep larger toys on the floor under the shelves, and smaller bins at kid-level so they can reach them.
In just a few hours, you’ll have a custom toy closet that’s organized, practical, and easy to maintain! If you have a lego lover, consider building them a LEGO wall!
Why This Works
- Kid-friendly – Labels + bins make cleanup simple.
- Customizable – Add or remove categories as your kids’ interests change.
- Clutter-free – Toys stay contained and easy to grab.
Free Toy bin Labels printable
To save you time, I’ve designed a set of free printable toy bin labels you can download and use in your own home. Just print, cut, and attach!
With just a little effort, you can transform toy chaos into a system that actually works. Give this DIY toy closet a try—you’ll love how much cleaner and calmer your play space feels!
