As a devoted dog mom, I understand the chaos that can ensue when my furbaby’s toys are scattered throughout the house.
Toys underfoot not only create clutter but also pose a tripping hazard – have you ever stood on a hard toy barefoot? They HURT.
That’s why effective storage solutions for dog toys are essential to maintaining a tidy and safe home—not to mention they help prevent you from going crazy.
They provide a designated spot for playthings, making it easier to locate a favorite squeaky ball or tug rope when it’s playtime.
In today’s article, I’m going to share my thought process for selecting the right dog toy storage options so you know what to look for.
Choosing the Right Dog Toy Storage
Choosing the right dog toy storage option can be a reflection of your personal style as well as the needs of your furry friend.
It’s important to consider the size and material of the storage, as some dogs might be inclined to chew on their toy bin! Durability and ease of cleaning are practical factors, as dog toys often collect drool and dirt.
When organizing dog toys, it’s crucial to keep them accessible both for me and my pet. Low open baskets or bins can be perfect for dogs to choose their own toys, fostering a sense of independence and curiosity.
However, for those seeking a more discreet option, a lidded container or a storage ottoman doubles as furniture while hiding the toys from view.
This versatility in dog toy storage solutions enables each dog owner to find the appropriate setup that works best in their living space and for their furry friend’s habits.
Size Considerations
When assessing size, I check both the storage capacity and the available space in my home. For instance:
Small (1-10 toys)
If your dog is not a big toy fan, you may be able to get away with a small shelf, low down, or a basket that holds up to 10 toys.
Shelves
Baskets
Medium (10-20 toys)
Most doggies will have somewhere between 10 and 20 toys, so a medium-sized solution, such as those I’ve listed below, work better:
Drawers
Bins
Large (20+ toys)
For the truly pampered pooch, with a plethora of dog toys to pick from, you’re going to have to go big with your storage solutions – consider:
Cabinets
Dog Toy Boxes
Material Durability
The material of the toy storage must withstand frequent use and the occasional chew. With this in mind, you have the following options:
Plastic: Resilient and often affordable.
Wood: Sturdy and aesthetically pleasing but can be pricey.
Fabric: Lightweight but may not hold up against sharp teeth.
Ease of Cleaning
Considering toys often get slobbered on or dirty, I prefer storage options that are:
Washable: Fabric bins with a machine-washable feature are usually best, or
Wipeable: Plastic or wooden options that I can easily clean with a cloth and disinfectant.
Accessibility For Pets
I ensure Bella can safely access her toys whenever she wants. If you want to do the same, you may consider opting for:
Open bins: Low enough for your dog to reach in without tipping over.
Lower shelves: No higher than your dog’s chest level to prevent climbing or jumping.
Creative Storage Solutions
As I mentioned earlier, I prioritize organization and aesthetic appeal when managing my home. If you’re the same, these innovative dog toy storage ideas can help streamline your space and keep your pet’s belongings in order.
DIY Dog Toy Boxes
I’ve found that building my dog toy box offers full customization. I can create a box size that fits my space and dog’s needs using sturdy materials such as wood. I often personalize it with my pet’s name using paint or stencils for a touch of personality.
Repurposing Furniture
Old furniture can become unique dog toy storage with a dash of creativity. An unused nightstand, for instance, can be transformed by removing drawers and adding a fabric curtain. Shelves can be added inside to sort toys by type or size.
Outdoor Toy Storage
Weather-resistant storage options are essential for outdoor use. I use a deck storage box that doubles as a bench for extra functionality. Ensuring it has a lid keeps the toys dry and clean, no matter the weather.
Wall-Mounted Bins
Utilizing vertical space, I install wall-mounted bins in my mudroom to clear floor clutter. Labeling each bin helps me stay organized, and I ensure they are low enough for my dog to reach their favorite toys.
Decorative Baskets
Aesthetic matters and decorative baskets are stylish solutions that I often place in my living room. Choosing baskets that match my decor brings harmony to the room. I opt for durable materials like wicker or thick fabric that can withstand frequent use.
Where To Buy Dog Toy Storage Solutions
I’ve made a few of my own, as I mentioned above, but when I’ve bought dog toy storage boxes and bins for myself or friends, I usually shop around on Amazon or Etsy. Here are a few I have my eye on right now:
Personalized Dog Toy Basket– I think this one makes a great gift for someone getting a new pup as you can add their name.
Dog Toy Crate– This is stylish and robust, perfect for those dogs who can’t resist a little nibble!
Storage Basket– I LOVE the design and material of this one and have been tempted to buy, but I am a little worried even Bella might chew it.
The Final Woof
So there you have it – no matter how many toys your pooch has, there’s a storage solution available.
While we want our furbabies to have access to their toys whenever they want, having them all over the house can be both unsightly and dangerous.
Choose a dog toy storage option that works for your home and your dog, and you’ve got the best of both worlds!
