How to Organize LEGOs for Busy Families
LEGOs are a fantastic way to spark creativity and build fine motor skills, but for busy families, keeping these tiny bricks organized can be a real challenge. If stepping on a rogue LEGO has become a nightly hazard (they hurt!), don’t worry — there are practical and realistic solutions to tame the chaos and make LEGO playtime enjoyable for everyone. Here are some tried-and-true strategies to organize LEGOs while keeping it simple and manageable.
1. Choose the Right Storage System
When selecting a storage system, think about your family’s needs and how your kids use their LEGOs. Here are a few popular options:
Bins and Baskets: For families who prefer quick cleanup, large bins or baskets are an excellent option. Label them for specific categories like “All LEGOs” or “Loose Bricks” if you want to keep it simple.
Drawer Systems: For more detailed sorting, stackable drawer systems allow you to separate LEGOs by color, type, or size. Transparent drawers make it easy to see what’s inside.
Portable Storage: Rolling carts or handled bins let kids move their LEGOs to different play areas without scattering pieces everywhere.
2. Sort by How Your Kids Play
Instead of aiming for Pinterest-perfect organization, focus on what works for your family.
By Color: Sorting by color works well for kids who like to build vibrant, colorful creations.
By Type or Function: For kids who build specific sets or need certain pieces quickly, sorting by function (e.g., wheels, mini-figures, flat pieces) can save time.
Keep It Random: If sorting isn’t your style, a “One Big Bin” system with a quick cleanup routine is perfectly fine.
By set. Keep the manuals! You never know when your little sister will sneak into your room and destroy your latest build. Don’t ask me how I know!
3. Create a Designated Play Space
Dedicate a specific area for LEGO building to minimize the mess. A few ideas include:
LEGO Table: Invest in or DIY a table with built-in storage and a LEGO-compatible surface.
Play Bags: Use a large, drawstring play bag that doubles as a storage bag. When playtime is over, simply pull the strings to gather up the bricks.
Lap Table: Portable cases that help contain LEGOs during building sessions and can easily be stored away.
Underbed storage Short on space? Slip this under your child’s bed when it’s not play time.
4. Set Up Cleanup Routines
To keep things under control, make cleanup a regular part of playtime:
Use a timer to turn cleanup into a quick game (“Can we clean up all the LEGOs in 5 minutes?”).
Assign specific tasks to kids based on their ages (e.g., “You collect the red bricks, and I’ll handle the mini-figures”).
Integrate cleanup into your daily routine, such as right before dinner or bedtime.
If your child is still mid-build, consider a tray that can be left out for them to finish the next day. This is what we utilize for our son which can be repurposed for playdough, slime, kinetic sand or whatever messy substance may enter your house!
5. Make It Fun and Accessible
Labels with Pictures: Use picture labels on bins or drawers to help younger kids know where things go. The Duplo bricks are great for ages 1.5-5 years old. I remember buying our first set on Facebook marketplace and the mom was sentimental that her kids were aging out of these. I understand because I couldn’t part with all of ours either. They are now in the attic being saved for the next generation!
Minimize Overwhelm: Rotate LEGO sets or pieces in and out of storage so kids don’t get overwhelmed by too many options at once. Less is more. I don’t know if my son would agree but Legos are expensive. So start small!
Encourage Creativity: Have a “display shelf” for finished masterpieces to celebrate your kids’ creations and motivate them to keep building. Every LEGO lover needs a brag wall or surface for their creations. Work with your space and get creative!
6. Don’t Overthink It
Remember, the goal is to make your life easier, not to achieve perfection. Your LEGO organization system should work for your family’s lifestyle, not against it. Start small, try out one or two of these ideas, and adjust as needed. The key is consistency, not complexity!
By implementing these practical strategies, you’ll create a more organized and stress-free LEGO experience for your entire family. Happy building! How does your family organize their LEGOs? Let us know by sending your solution here!
Some favorite products that we’ve utilized for LEGOs as our kids have grown are:
IKEA Trofast storage with bins (under my son’s loft bed)
Container Store large shoe boxes (our current storage solution)
Storage bricks in various sizes and colors
If your child is a LEGO enthusiast, I recommend subscribing to the free magazine with five issues per year. We also visited LEGOLAND California when our kids were 8, 6 and 4. There is a Facebook group that was an incredible resource as we prepared. It is magical for the LEGO lovers in your life and so close to many other family friendly destinations in San Diego. Happy to be a resource if you are planning a trip!
Jessica is the founder of Signature Organizing, a Professional Home Organizing Business in Washington (servicing the greater Eastside and Seattle area). She loves transforming chaos into functional spaces and is known for bringing creative solutions to improve the quality of life for her clients. She shares her tips and tricks on Instagram @signatureorganizing
