Too Many Toys? Simple Hacks to Declutter and Keep Playtime Fun

1. Try the One-In, One-Out Rule

Whenever a new toy comes in, choose one to donate, sell, or store away. This helps keep toy numbers under control and teaches kids about mindful choices from an early age.

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2. Use the “Toy Rotation” Trick

Store some toys out of sight and swap them every few weeks. Kids often treat “old” toys as brand new, which means fewer purchases and more excitement without spending a cent.

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3. Sort by Play Value, Not Sentiment

Keep the toys that get played with in multiple ways and work across ages — building blocks, pretend play sets, art supplies. If it only gets touched once a month, it might be time to say goodbye. And instead of letting it collect dust, consider selling it through Neworn, where other families can give it a second life and you can make space (and a little extra cash) for toys your kids truly love.

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4. Involve Kids in the Process

Even young children can help decide what stays and goes. Give them a “yes” and “no” pile to make it feel like a game — they might surprise you with what they’re ready to part with. Plus, it’s a great opportunity to teach them about sharing and reusing.

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5. Borrow Instead of Buy

For toys your kids only want for a short while, a toy library is a game-changer. At the Vienna Toy Library, members can borrow a wide selection of high-quality, developmentally appropriate toys — from costumes to puzzles — and swap them whenever they’re ready for something new. This means no more clutter from toys that have been outgrown, and no more waste from barely-used purchases. You get variety, your kids get fresh play experiences, and the planet gets a little greener.

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