What to Do With Old Toys – 4 Quick and Easy Decluttering Tips

Feeling unsure about what to do with unused, outgrown toys that clutter the playroom or closets? Instead of letting them languish, consider donating them to families or organizations in need. It's an easy way to declutter your living space and significantly improve another person's life. Shelters, community centers, and most charities would be more than happy to receive gently used toys, especially if they're still in good shape. Not only does this minimize waste, but it also brings joy to children who might not have many toys.

1.  Donating Used Toys - Give Joy to Another Family 

One of the best things you can do with toys that you have outgrown is donating used toys. Many families can’t purchase new toys, and gently used toys could brighten a child’s day.

There are many places and charities where you can donate toys. Some of the most popular options include:

• Local shelters or children’s organizations- 

Most shelters and nonprofit agencies accept toy donations, especially those that assist families in transition or children in need. Your used toys can offer comfort and joy to a child facing challenging circumstances.

• Hospitals and pediatric clinics- 

A few hospitals and clinics accept toy donations for their playrooms or to give to child patients. Always call first to find out what types of toys are accepted – they typically prefer items that can be easily sanitized and are in great condition.

• Schools and daycare centers - 

Preschools, daycares, and even elementary schools often welcome toy donations, especially for indoor play areas, after-school activities, or free playtime. Educational toys are especially appreciated!

• Religious or community organizations- 

Churches, mosques, synagogues, and community centers often assist families through outreach programs and may appreciate charities that donate toys. These toys can be used during children's services or distributed to families in need.

Before donating your toys, call the organization to ask what types they can accept. Some may have safety limitations or requirements, such as no stuffed animals or battery-powered items.

2.  Sort and Separate 

The first step toward decluttering is the most critical: sort and separate. Walk through all the toys and divide them into four groups: 

• Keep - 

These are toys that are well-loved, used regularly, and bring joy. If your child reaches for them frequently, they are in the keep store.

• Broken - 

Toys that are broken beyond repair or have essential parts missing fall into this category. Some may be recyclable, so check local recycling regulations before disposing of them.

• Outgrown - 

These are toys that your child used to play with but no longer does, yet they’re in excellent condition. They are ideal for giving away, exchanging, or handing down.

• Sentimental - 

Certain charities to donate toys are too precious to give up - like a treasured stuffed animal, a gift from someone special, or a toy tied to a cherished memory. Keep these in a safe place to enjoy.

3. Clean and Refresh Before Rehoming

Before passing along toys, they should be cleaned. Dampen a cloth with mild soap and wipe the plastic surfaces. Many plush toys may be placed in the washing machine on the gentle cycle. 

Freshening up the toys for a few minutes truly makes a significant difference when donating used toys to others. Clean toys are more appealing and show respect for the next child who will play with them. Additionally, many donation centers only accept gently used, clean toys—so it's a win-win.

4. Organize a Toy Swap or Share With Friends

Another amusing and innovative approach to giving new life to your toys is to organize a toy swap. Invite a few friends, neighbors, or parents from school to bring the toys they no longer use and exchange them with one another. It's like a yard sale, but free, allowing everyone to go home with new toys!

Another simple option is to reach out to friends or family with younger kids. Chances are, they’ll be happy to receive toys you’re ready to part with. It's a personal and meaningful way to donate old toys, especially when you know the items will be appreciated and cherished again.

Read this blog also:- Essential Tips for Running a Successful Toys Donation Campaign

Bonus Tip:

Teach Kids About Letting Go

Decluttering doesn't have to be a chore; it can serve as a way to discuss generosity and gratitude with your children. Allowing them to select some toys to donate gives them a sense of control and encourages them to think about others. When children grasp the joy of giving, it becomes easier to part with old favorites.

You can even establish a family tradition of selecting toys to donate each year during birthdays or holidays. Discuss where the donate old toys are going and how they will bring joy to another child. This is an excellent way to instill a healthy, lifelong mindset regarding belongings and generosity.

Final Thoughts

Removing old toys need not be stressful. Sort, clean, share, and, above all, donate your old toys to create space at home and make a remarkable impact on another person's life. It does not matter whether you prefer sharing with friends or involving charities to donate toys in the act of giving; what matters is that even the little you can do brings happiness.

Tackle it step by step, and don't worry about achieving perfection. The goal is to make progress, not to overwhelm yourself. When you take the time to donate toys, you're spreading kindness, and that's something we can all appreciate.