Mist parents are never fully prepared for how expensive it is to raise a child. And the one thing you will always find yourself pouring money into is toys. Your kids will be constantly asking for the latest and greatest toys until the playroom is full and you don’t know what to do with it all. So how do you handle this problem? Well, you have to look into storage options. A space to store all of the things that they love to play with will not only keep their play area neat and tidy, but help them find the toy they are looking for when they want it most.
During your search for storage options, you will come across a bunch of different types, from organizers to toy boxes and toy chests. I have put this guide together to help you figure out what type of storage will work best for your children and your home. You will also find out which one I have for my own children, and why that one was the best for us.
Carry on reading or jump straight to our number #1 pick here.
Table of Contents
- What Should I Look for in a Toy Box?
- Here’s How I’ve Determined the Best Toy Box
- Our Top Picks for the Best Toy Box of 2024
- #1: Delta Children Deluxe 9-bin Toy Storage Organizer (Best Value)
- #2: Wildkin Kids Wooden Bench Seat with Storage (Best Overall)
- #3: Delta Children 6-bin Toy Organizer (Best Themed)
- #4: Step2 2-in-1 Toy Box (Best Multipurpose)
- #5: CLCROBD Foldable Kids Large Toy Chest (Best Low Cost)
- #6: Melissa & Doug Wooden Toy Chest (Best Wooden)
- #7: Little Tikes Primary Colors Toy Chest (Best for Large Toys)
- #8: Child Craft Shoal Creek Storage Chest (Best with Locking Hinges)
- #9: Tot Tutors 3-tier Storage Unit with Rollout Toy Box (Best on Wheels)
- #10: Badger Basket Hardwood Barrel Top Toy Chest (Best Classic Design)
- Are Toy Boxes Dangerous?
- Verdict: Your Best Toy Box
What Should I Look for in a Toy Box?
With all of the choices available, you are probably wondering how you will choose the right toy box for you. Well, there are some important factors to consider. Here are a few basics that you will want to cover if you’re looking to purchase a toy box. Take a look at the list that we have come up with below to see what exactly you should be keeping in mind when you are looking for that ideal toy chest.
Size
The toy boxes and toy chests out there right now vary in size. You will want to be sure to take a look at the dimensions before purchasing, so the toy box you choose will fit in the space that you have available.
Material
Typically you will see toy boxes made out of wood or plastic. There really isn’t a major difference between them that will affect their function, so this will be more of a preference.
Capacity
Depending on how many toys your child has, or if you are planning to use the toy chest for multiple children, you will want something that will have the amount of storage space that you need. Again, this will involve checking out the dimensions.
Ease of use
No one wants a toy box with a heavy lid or dangerous hinges. After all, one of the purposes of a toy box is to promote independence in your child. It will have to be easy enough for them to use on their own, so they can safely remove toys from it and also clean them up.
Safety
Any product that you purchase for your children needs to be safe enough to use. All of the toy boxes on this list have safety features to keep your tot from getting hurt.
Assembly
If you are not comfortable with breaking out the power tools or anything more than a screwdriver, then you most likely don’t want a chest that takes a lot of effort to put together.
Toy size
You wouldn’t choose a small storage bin if your children own a lot of large toys, just like you wouldn’t choose a large chest for lego pieces and tiny race cars.
Once you have decided on these basics, then you will be better able to determine the perfect toy storage box for you.
Here’s How I’ve Determined the Best Toy Box
To pinpoint the best of the best, I looked at reviews and comments from parents just like you. You will see that this list of toy boxes contains only the highest-rated and are made with the best quality. I also compared the features to the price to be sure that they are worth what you would be spending. After all, not many parents have an unlimited budget.
Of course, you will want something that is built to last and can stand up to rambunctious little ones. I also included my own personal experience since I have kids of my own and they have a lot of stuff. I will talk about which one we had and why I enjoy it because, of course, it is a big part of what keeps our family room still looking like one.
Our Top Picks for the Best Toy Box of 2024
#1: Delta Children Deluxe 9-bin Toy Storage Organizer (Best Value)
The first thing that you will notice is that this product is referred to as a toy organizer rather than a toy box. This is because even though it can technically be called a toy box or toy chest, it is made for another very important task. You probably guessed by the name this it is meant for organizing. A great perk of this toy box is that your child will be able to take over and arrange their toys how they see fit. Read on and see why the Delta Children Deluxe 9-bin toy box takes the number 1 spot on my list.
It makes finding a specific toy a breeze
If you have young tots or did at one point, you probably remember what happens when they are looking for their favorite action figure or teddy bear and can’t find it. It feels like the end of the world for children at that age, and a toy storage organizer like this one would certainly help with that. The toy bins are lightweight and can be removed if needed, and this allows your little one to find exactly what they are looking for all on their own.
It has different sized toy bins
Toys come in all shapes and sizes, and Delta Children recognizes that. Different size storage toy bins are perfect for tiny cars to large plushes and blocks. Plus, since they are open bins, it is easy to see what’s inside each one, so they will always remember what toy goes where.
It’s great for multiple children
Below you will see which toy box that I purchased for my own sons, and this one is very similar to it. This organizer can hold so many toys that it is ideal if you have more than one child. This way they can not only sort their toys, they can even separate their toys from each other. If you have more than one child then you know how they sometimes want what belongs to them and nothing else. Toy bins that keep the toys separate and organized really do help when it comes to preventing an argument.
What else is there to know about this toy box?
- Dimensions: 36 x 12 x 24 inches
- Easy to assemble
- 100% non-toxic
- Available in multiple colors
- Tested for safety
- Sturdy wood construction and fabric bins
- Weight: 16.53 lbs.
This toy organizer is great for all different situations. It doesn’t take up a ton of space, but it is still very functional and easy for your tot to use. Plus, the assembly is also easy. It takes almost no time to put together and all of the pieces are lightweight, making it easy to maneuver. Also, it gives you choices with different size storage bins. It is ideal for toys of all shapes and sizes.
#2: Wildkin Kids Wooden Bench Seat with Storage (Best Overall)
When you first look at this toy chest, you will notice how adorable it is. It is a perfect gift for that little one in your life who aspires to be a royal princess. It is made of sturdy, solid wood and can be used not just for your daughter’s toys. It is pricier compared to the other toy boxes on our list but if you have the money to spare, it is worth it to see the look on your little girl’s face once it is set up.
It is a great addition to a bedroom
Some little ones really love to play in their own room if there is space. This toy chest is perfect for that. It is made to match well with other furniture, so it will work great with your child’s theme if they have one. Let’s face it, most kids will fixate on that one interest, and their room will end up reflecting that. What’s nice is that this can also grow with your child because of how it is made and what it can do.
It doubles as a bench
No matter where you decide to store this toy box, it can have a dual purpose. The built-in bench is great for simple tasks like taking off or putting on shoes, or even as a place to relax and read a book. However it is used, you will discover quickly that it is well worth the investment.
Here are some more important features of this toy chest that are worth mentioning.
- Dimensions: 32 x 15.5 x 26.5 inches
- Comes in Fairy Wishes or Firefighter
- Coordinates with other Wildkin furniture
- Closing metal safety hinge
- Two side handles for easy lifting
- Weight: 28.45 lbs.
The best part about this toy chest is that not only can it come princess themed, but firetruck themed as well. There is something for every child. It is also safe for little fingers because it prevents pinching, and it is very easy for even the tiniest hands to open and close. You are probably wondering why this is the runner up. That is because it doesn’t offer the same organizational concept as the Delta Children Deluxe 9-bin, but it can be used for more than one purpose. Its sleek wood design is mainly what puts it at a high price. If you can afford the higher price tag, you will not be disappointed.
#3: Delta Children 6-bin Toy Organizer (Best Themed)
If your children are anything like mine, then you know how amazing it is for them to own anything that reminds them of their favorite character or TV show. Delta Children definitely had that in mind when they designed this toy organizer. You can see there are many options, and the setup is almost exactly the same as my top pick’s. Keep reading to see why I included this toy box on my list.
There are so many different themes to choose from
It is impossible not to find one that your child enjoys. From Mickey Mouse to Paw Patrol, Delta Children caters to themes for a child of any age to enjoy. We ultimately purchased the PJ Masks one for our boys, and they were ecstatic to wake up to it the morning after I set it up. The only drawback is that children change their interests often. That is why this isn’t my number one toy box. My top pick is more neutral and features bright colors, so no matter your child’s age, they won’t grow out of it.
The bins are of different sizes
Now, this is the same as the other Delta Children toy organizer that is mentioned, and these two are the only ones that are designed this way. The rest are traditional toy chests that don’t offer as big a range of organization options. However, that isn’t a deal breaker if you know what you are looking for.
Here are some more notable features of this toy organizer.
- Dimensions: 25 x 11.75 x 26 inches
- Sturdy wood construction and fabric bins
- Easy assembly
- Lightweight
- Available in several characters
- Weight: 13 lbs.
If you are looking for a character theme that you know your child will enjoy, but also want a fun way for them to organize their toys, look no further. That is why I chose this one for our boys. They love the theme and having characters on the bins that they recognize, and it motivates them to use it. With bins of different sizes, it will be easy to store all of their favorite toys, including things like legos or puzzles. It is a new and fun way to motivate your little ones to clean up their toys, promoting their independence while giving us parents a little break.
#4: Step2 2-in-1 Toy Box (Best Multipurpose)
This toy chest is very different from all of the other ones that I will talk about in this guide. Some of the toy boxes will also work as a bench, and this one has a unique purpose in addition to acting as a storage bin. Plus, Step2 is one of the most popular and well-known brands, so you know that they have made a product that you will trust. Let’s dive in and talk about the biggest reasons to choose this toy box.
The lid has a built-in art board
I would say that this is one of the coolest features out of any toy box. The lid can be detached from the box and be used as an art board. It includes a clip for your child to hold their artwork in place and have a flat surface to draw or color on.
It is very durable and safe
There is no reason to ever question the durability of this toy box. It’s made out of strong plastic, so you will never have to worry about dents or cracks. Your little one will get so much use out of it. Parents really enjoy that they don’t have to worry about safety, either. There is no way for your child to experience pinched fingers.
What are some other key features of this kids’ toy box?
- Dimensions: 30.5 x 19 x 19 inches
- 4.5 cubic feet of storage space
- Minimal assembly required
- Easy to clean
- Includes removable storage bins
- Available in multiple colors
- Weight: 13 lbs
This is one of the smallest toy boxes on my list, but it will still hold a lot of toys. It is nice for a smaller space or if you are working with limited room in your home. It is also available in multiple color schemes so you will find something for every type of child. One of the best features of this toy box is how easy it is to wipe down when needed, so you never have to worry about germs or bacteria. I think we all know that few parents wouldn’t love that. The bottom line is that if your child loves art projects, then this is worth considering. The art clip is a great perk for displaying their favorite drawings.
#5: CLCROBD Foldable Kids Large Toy Chest (Best Low Cost)
The first thing you will see is that this is one of the simplest toy boxes included on my list. It’s extremely affordable and compact, making it great for organization. You will quickly learn that this basket will have more than one use, allowing you to find different ways to use it when you are no longer looking for storage space for toys. Let’s talk about why this particular storage box made it into my top picks.
It’s ideal for small toys
Even though this storage box isn’t meant for teddy bears, it is great for storing smaller toys like puzzle pieces or even art supplies. If you have any small toys or small parts that you don’t want to lose, this storage bin would be best out of all of the other toy box options.
It can be folded up when not in use
If you are already working with limited space, then it might be helpful for you to have a storage box that folds up when the toys are being used. This way, you don’t take up any unnecessary space when the box is empty. This may not seem very important, but it can be for parents who name their top complaint as a limited amount of room.
What else makes this toy box stand out as the best for a small budget?
- Dimensions: 21 x 14.2 x 14.2 inches
- Available in several animal designs
- Made of 100% polyester
- Reinforced cardboard bottom
- Sturdy handles on either side
- Easy to clean
- Weight: 3.72 lbs.
If your child has several large toys, then you would be better off with one of the other top picks, like Step2. However, a smaller box for toy storage like this one is definitely ideal if you don’t have a lot of space to work with. It is lightweight and easy to carry around, making it a breeze to store it anywhere in your home. It can also be put in a closet or on a shelf when not in use, making things even easier. Plus, you only need a damp cloth to wipe it down with ease. This is a great, affordable product.
#6: Melissa & Doug Wooden Toy Chest (Best Wooden)
If a wooden toy box is what you’re after, then this Melissa & Doug toy chest would be a great choice for you. If you are familiar with this brand, then you know that you are getting a high-quality product. Plus, it has a really nice wood finish that allows you to repurpose it when your little ones no longer need it. It would be a great addition to your home décor. Keep reading to see why this made our top 10 as the best wooden toy box.
It doesn’t look like a toy box
Out of all of the other toy boxes mentioned, this wooden toy chest is the most neutral. It is a simple wood design that can be matched with any décor in your home. This makes it a breeze to repurpose into pretty much whatever you want. It isn’t limited to being used only for toys.
It has a safety lid
No one wants pinched fingers. This wooden toy chest has a safety-hinged lid that makes opening and closing it a breeze. You can feel how durable it is, and you won’t ever have to worry about the lid of this box snapping closed. It will always stay open until it is closed manually, preventing injuries.
Here are some more key features of this toy box.
- Dimensions: 32.75 x 19 x 24 inches
- Easy assembly
- 4.5 cu ft. of storage
- Comes in multiple wood finishes
- Easy to wipe clean
- Lid can be used as a bench
- Weight: 26 lbs.
So ultimately, this box made it onto our list for the best wooden toy chest because of its design and safety. It is always great being able to purchase something that will eventually have another use or can stick around for a long time. This Melissa & Doug wooden toy bin is a perfect example of that. Plus with its safety lid, your children can open and close the toy box all on their own and with ease.
#7: Little Tikes Primary Colors Toy Chest (Best for Large Toys)
Every kid has a lot of large toys. Whether those be stuffed animals, trucks, or dolls, having a storage bin for them is essential in keeping things looking tidy. Not many toy boxes are big enough to handle all of those larger toys, and that’s where this Little Tikes Toy Chest comes in. If you are looking for larger toy storage for your kids’ toy room, look no further. Let’s talk about why you should choose this one.
It is safe and sturdy
Little Tikes made this toy box with durable plastic, so it can withstand everyday use by your children. The lid is safe and easy to use, making it great for allowing your little ones to learn how to pick up after themselves. In my opinion, it’s never too early for them to learn how. Plus, the lid is removable. If you want to take it off and have it out of the way until clean up time, you have the freedom to do so.
It has a smaller storage compartment
At the very bottom of this toy box, you will notice two small toy bins. They are great for blocks or smaller stuffed animals, so similar toys can be stored in the same place. They are also removable, so you can even use them for crafting supplies. Since they are lightweight, you can move them anywhere in the room.
Here are some more great features.
- Dimensions: 38 x 22 x 23 inches
- 6 cu ft. of storage
- No assembly required
- Easy to clean
- Sits right against the wall
- Weight: 19 lbs.
The only complaint about this toy box is the size. It is fairly large and wouldn’t be ideal for a space like a small living room. However, if you can fit it somewhere in your home and you know that your little ones will need the storage, then it could be a great choice for you. It is the largest of all the other toy boxes. Plus, it ships fully assembled. No need to worry about breaking out a hammer or screwdriver to put it together.
#8: Child Craft Shoal Creek Storage Chest (Best with Locking Hinges)
This is another wonderful kids’ toy bin. It has some similarities to the Melissa & Doug bin since it is made of wood and a similar size. This product has many positive testimonials from parents, praising it for its safety features and ease of use. Read on to see why this particular wood toy bin makes it into my top 10 list.
The hinges lock in place when it is opened
A unique feature about this toy bin is that it has a patented t-lock assembly system, which keeps the lid in place when your little ones have it opened. This prevents pinched fingers and any sort of snapback while kids are rummaging through to find the toy that they need.
It comes with a 5-year warranty
If you notice any manufacturing defects, it is covered under the 5-year warranty. You are automatically enrolled just by purchasing this product; there is no additional cost for it. This doesn’t mean that you have to worry about the quality, but it is a nice perk to have just in case. Nothing is always perfect, so it feels good to know that Child Craft has your back and stands behind their materials.
What are some other features of this toy bin?
- Dimensions: 35.3 x 15.5 x 18.9 inches
- Made of medium-density fiberboard and particle board with laminate
- Non-toxic wood finish
- Hardware and instructions included
- Weight: 47 lbs.
The major selling point that makes this one of the best toy chests is the safety features it possesses. The locking system and the hinges help to prevent accidents and injuries. Let’s face it — children aren’t always gentle with their belongings, and it is nice to not have any extra worry with this product.
#9: Tot Tutors 3-tier Storage Unit with Rollout Toy Box (Best on Wheels)
This product is very unique compared to the others that we have included on this list. It is one of the main reasons why you would choose it over the others. Though it is a little larger, if you have space and enough items to fill it, it may work best for you. Plus, it isn’t very expensive, which we can all enjoy. Keep reading to find out why this box is one of our picks.
The largest bin has wheels
If you find yourself always cleaning up after your children, as most of us parents do, having wheels on their toy bin could be really helpful. Messes aren’t always contained, especially if they have a large area to play in. This bin can be wheeled easily to where the toys are, then right back where it belongs. Plus, your children can use this feature as well. They could even make a game out of it. I know for a fact that my boys respond well if you make chores fun, and this product gives you that opportunity.
There are also smaller bins for small toys
One of the biggest things that I’ve noticed with my own children is that they have a lot of small toys and a lot of art supplies. Smaller bins for organization seem to really help them, especially when they are looking for a particular car or dinosaur. The ability to separate toys makes it easier for them and you because it helps promote their independence. They can find everything that they need on their own.
What are some other important features that you should know?
- Dimensions: 25 x 15 x 30 inches
- Includes a small top shelf
- Rollout bin is completely removable
- 3 plastic bins included
- Weight: 26 lbs.
This product would be best for you if you like the idea of wheels and the smaller storage boxes for organizing. If this sounds like you, then you probably wouldn’t choose the Little Tikes or Step2 toy boxes over this one. It is tall but doesn’t take up a lot of space, which is perfect for a tiny living room or small playroom. Either way, you would ultimately purchase this for its unique features.
#10: Badger Basket Hardwood Barrel Top Toy Chest (Best Classic Design)
This toy box has a very classic design, which is nice if you want a chest that you could repurpose in the future or use as a piece of accent furniture. The Badger Basket rounds out my top 10 because I just had to include something that is both beautiful and functional. Plus, it looks like a treasure chest. Use your imagination and purchase this one if you have a little pirate in your life. Keep reading and see what features made this particular product take a spot on our list.
It’s very sturdy
This wooden toy bin was built to last. It is a great option to store toys, blankets, or anything else that needs a new home. It is made with solid wood and multi-layered wood, so you know you are getting a high-quality product. If you are in search of a simple and durable wooden toy bin, then this one may be the right fit.
It’s easy to clean
Of course, ease of use is extremely important, but so is the ease of cleaning. Messes happen; your child may have unexplained sticky fingers, so it is nice to be able to clean this box with minimal effort. All it takes is a damp cloth and mild detergent, and you are ready to go. Just be sure to dry it thoroughly afterward.
What other features make this toy bin a great option?
- Dimensions: 31 x 17 x 19 inches
- Available in multiple colors
- Handles for easy carrying
- Safety hinges
- Unique style
- Weight: 25 lbs.
The Badger Basket brand is one of the most trusted brands by parents. They are known to produce high quality and safe products. This chest’s safety features make it one of the safest boxes out there on the market right now. However, with its barrel top, you can use the top for storage or as a bench like the Melissa & Doug or the Wildkin. If this isn’t a deal-breaker, the price of this is still affordable and would make a great addition to your home.
Are Toy Boxes Dangerous?
Many toy boxes on the market have mechanisms to make them completely safe for your little ones to use. This includes safety features like locking hinges or a safety lid that closes slowly. Additionally, they are made with such durability. The solid construction of toy boxes these days will keep you from worrying about injuries.
Verdict: Your Best Toy Box
If you want the best value for your money, pick the Delta Children Deluxe 9-bin Toy Storage Organizer. It offers the most storage AND the most storage options. It grows with your child.
If you are looking for the best overall, pick the Wildkin Kids Wooden Bench Seat with Storage. It is a very beautiful piece of furniture and a great splurge. Plus, there are two themes to choose from.
If you want the best-themed toy box, pick the Delta Children 6-bin Toy Organizer. There are several recognizable characters to choose from, so you are bound to find something for every child. Plus, it will help them get excited about using it.
If you love dual-purpose products, pick the Step2 2-in-1 Toy Box. The lid doubles as an art board with an art clip to hold kids’ drawings in place. It can even be used as a flat surface for them to create or a spot to display their finished work.
If you want to keep the spending under $30, pick the CLCROBD Foldable Kids Large Toy Chest. It is very compact and versatile. These bins can be great organizational tools for small toys.
For the best wooden toy storage, pick the Melissa & Doug Wooden Toy Chest. It has great safety features, along with versatility and durability. Melissa & Doug is well known for promoting screen-free playtime, and a nice toy chest like this one helps with that mission.
For the best toy storage box for large toys, pick the Little Tikes Primary Colors Toy Chest. This is the most ideal for trucks and stuffed animals. However, it also includes a storage compartment at the bottom with 2 bins.
If you want the best locking hinges, pick the Child Craft Shoal Creek Storage Chest. The t-lock assembly system is one of the best safety features for protecting little fingers. The lid stays open when you want it to, and there is no snapback.
If you are looking for toy storage on wheels, pick the Tot Tutors 3-tier Storage Unit with Rollout Toy Box. The wheels make cleaning up a breeze if you decide to keep this unit in a different area than the play space.
For the best classic design, pick the Badger Basket Hardwood Barrel Top Toy Chest. It literally looks like a treasure chest, promoting your little pirate’s imagination.
The bottom line is that you can’t go wrong with any of these boxes. They each have unique features that will ultimately be their selling point. This ranges from their materials to the lid designs. Many of them are easy to assemble and promote ease of use. This means you won’t have to worry about putting one together after shipping, or worrying about your little one using it on their own.
Your main concerns should be if you want it to be made out of wood or plastic, the size, and the price. There is something here for every budget and play area. A toy box is one item you want to make sure to put on your wish list if you haven’t already.