Child Care Storage Options

No Comments

3 Shares

Whether you are a new child care provider or a veteran of many years child care storage always seems to be an issue. There just don’t seem to be enough places to store all the stuff! I hear ya! So even though I don’t really believe there is such a thing as enough storage, today I thought we would check out some creative child care storage options. So if you are space challenged, keep reading for some helpful storage tips. Oh and hold on till the end for a really cool option!

What can I use for Child Care Storage ?

This post may contain affiliate links. You can check my disclosure for more info!

1. Oversized Ziplock Bags

Up first are these super-sized versions of a kitchen staple. They are called simply Big Bags by Ziplock. I found these years ago and love the amount of room each bag provides. We separate our curriculum themes into these bags and then label it for easy identification. Then we use a sturdy hanger to store them in a closet. Just like the smaller versions, the top seals everything in. The bags are strong enough to use outside too. Oh, don’t forget to get the smaller version too for the little stuff.

2. Shoe Boxes

I really love using the standard clear plastic shoe boxes. They are perfect for child care storage. We use them to separate contents when more than one child needs to share a cubby. When we need parents to replenish items, the shoe box is easily portable. Shoe boxes are also good for storing art supplies and since they are clear you can see the contents. Check out the colored ones too!

[raw_html_snippet id="wild dill toys"]

3. Cubbies

Speaking of cubbies; we use several large bookcases to store items all around the child care space. I really like this one because it comes in several different colors and the “cubbies” allow for quite a bit of storage. Whether you use fabric, rattan baskets or simple shoe boxes, you can store a lot in each cubby.

4. Large Plastic Bins

Super sturdy, these bins can take just about anything the kids can dish out. The top locks so you can safely store cleaning supplies, outdoor equipment & toys, seasonal items, etc. Since they are made of tough rubber or plastic, they can live outside and out of the way.

[raw_html_snippet id="baby sheets -ss"]

5. Locking Bins

Similar to the shoe boxes, these bins are more sturdy and the locking lids keep out little hands (most of the time , he-he). These come in a variety of sizes and shapes and are perfect for storing paper, pens, scissors, etc.

6. Desktop Divider

I love being able to find a different use for an item. You know – a good ole hack! These desktop dividers, typically used for separating paper, are perfect for storing puzzles. You could also use one as a drying station for wet painting projects too. They allow you to store items vertically in the same amount of space. Love that!

7. Book/Locker Bins

Here’s another helpful hack. These book/locker bins are perfect for separating items in a cubby (like shoes, blankets, stuffed animal, etc). They are also a perfect size for storing diapers too. Slap a label on the front and there you go.

8. Photo Boxes

These stackable boxes are perfectly sized for storing puzzle pieces, receipts, art supplies or anything semi-bulky. They come in fun colors so you can color-code them for different contents while injecting a shot of color in your space.

9. Plastic Totes

This one is a great multi-use item. Plastic totes are great for storing shoes at naptime, a catch-all for a quick clean up and I have even used them hanging on a hook for some creative vertical storage.

10. Hamper

I really like using the netting type hampers for storage. This can be used inside or out and since they are netted you can easily see the contents. We use them inside to store various baby toys and outside they easily hold bouncy balls.

[raw_html_snippet id="my pretend place"]

_

Bonus Storage Pick: Floating Shelf

I just had to throw in this one, just because it is just too cool. Since I am storage space challenged (I admit it) I constantly look for ways to use vertical space whenever I can. Check out this acrylic floating shelf! This would be perfect for books or stuffed animal storage. It’s clear so it doesn’t take up any visual space and doesn’t it just look cool?