Game storage chaos plagues so many households. Board games wind up scattered in closets, shoved in random corners, or stacked in wobbly piles on shelves.
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When family game night rolls around, you can’t find the pieces you need, and the frustration is real.
The key to effective game storage is to create a system that fits your collection size, space, and how often you play. If you match the right storage to your needs, your games will be easy to grab instead of buried like ancient relics.
Turning a messy game collection into an organized system isn’t rocket science, but it does take a bit of planning. You need to know what you own, set up smart storage zones, and pick containers that protect your stuff and make the most of your space.
Whether you’ve got just a handful of family classics or a massive library of strategy games, the right setup makes every game night less stressful and a lot more fun.
Assessing Your Game Collection
You can’t organize what you don’t know you have. Start by figuring out exactly what games are in your house and where you want to keep them.
This step helps you make smart storage choices and clears out space for the games you actually enjoy.
Taking Inventory and Categorizing Games
First, gather every game you own into one spot. Count each title and jot them down—use a notepad or your phone, whatever works.
Create categories that fit your collection. Strategy games like Settlers of Catan need different storage than light party games like Codenames.
Sort your games into main groups:
- Family games (good for all ages)
- Strategy games (more complex, longer play)
- Party games (big groups, social fun)
- Card games (compact, quick to set up)
- Two-player games (for smaller sessions)
Write down how many games are in each group. These numbers help you plan storage space.
Notice the box sizes in each group. Some strategy games come in huge boxes, while others are surprisingly compact.
Evaluating Storage Space and Location
Grab a tape measure and check your storage spots. Measure the height, width, and depth of shelves or cabinets.
Walk through your home and look at different rooms. Living rooms are handy, but dining rooms sometimes offer better built-ins.
Think about these factors for each spot:
| Factor | Questions to Ask |
|---|---|
| Accessibility | Can you reach games easily for setup? |
| Room Traffic | Will storage block walkways? |
| Climate | Is it dry and away from direct sun? |
| Expansion | Is there room for more games later? |
Test-fit your biggest game boxes in each space. Stack a few to see if the shelf can take the weight.
Think about where you actually play games. Keeping games close to your gaming table saves a lot of back-and-forth.
Identifying Games to Keep, Donate, or Sell
Pick up each game and ask yourself when you last played it. If it’s been over two years, maybe it’s time to let go.
Check the condition of boxes and pieces. Missing parts or beat-up boards just take up space and aren’t much fun.
Keep games that:
- You play at least twice a year
- Have sentimental value or cost a lot
- Fit your usual group size
Consider donating games that:
- Have simple rules and wide appeal
- Are complete but rarely played
- Don’t fit your current tastes
Sell games that:
- Are rare or collectible
- Originally cost over $30 and still look good
- Have a decent resale market online
Make three piles or boxes as you go: keep, donate, sell. Seeing the actual stacks makes decisions a bit easier and shows you how much space you’ll free up.
Planning an Accessible Organization System
A good system puts your favorite games front and center and keeps everything neat and easy to find. The trick is to balance how often you play each game with smart grouping.
Grouping by Type and Frequency of Play
Sort your collection by both game type and how often you play. Make three groups: weekly favorites, monthly games, and special occasion games.
Put weekly favorites on low shelves where everyone can reach. Store monthly games at eye level. Tuck special occasion games up high or in less-used spots.
Within each group, organize by game type:
- Strategy games (Risk, Settlers of Catan)
- Family games (Monopoly, Scrabble)
- Card games (Uno, Phase 10)
- Party games (Charades, Pictionary)
- Kids’ games (Candy Land, Chutes and Ladders)
Use clear bins or shelf dividers to keep categories separate. Label everything so family members know where to find and return games.
Considerations for Game Nights
Design your storage to match your game night routine. Keep party games and crowd-pleasers together in an easy-to-reach spot.
Set up a game night bin with 8-10 go-to games for groups. Keep this bin close to your main gaming area.
Think about the path from storage to table. Store the games you use most often as close as possible to where you play.
Keep accessories handy. Store extra dice, timers, and scorepads in a small container near your main collection.
Rotating and Prioritizing Frequently Played Games
Rotate your collection now and then to keep things fresh. Move games to more accessible spots if you start playing them more.
Swap out weekly favorites every few months. Promote games from the monthly section if they’re getting more play.
Set up a “try again” shelf for games that haven’t seen action lately. Put them at eye level for a while and see if anyone bites.
Track what you play by keeping a list or just moving played games to one side of the shelf. This helps you spot the real favorites.
Choosing the Right Storage Solutions
Great storage starts with shelves and systems that fit your collection and make games easy to grab. The right setup can turn a mess into a display you actually want to show off.
Selecting Adjustable and Sturdy Shelving Units
Adjustable shelves are a must for games of all shapes and sizes. Board games range from tiny card sets to giant boxes with endless expansions.
Go for shelving units with metal brackets and thick wood shelves. These can handle heavy games without bowing.
Look for:
- Shelves that adjust in 1-inch steps
- 30-pound weight limit per shelf or more
- Solid or engineered wood
- Reinforced backs for stability
The IKEA Kallax system is a crowd favorite for good reason. You can start small and add more cubes as your collection grows.
Kallax cubes fit most board game boxes perfectly. The square shape works for both tall strategy games and wide family classics.
Mix open shelving with closed storage if you like. That way, you can show off your favorites and hide the less attractive boxes or loose parts.
Maximizing Vertical Space Effectively
Vertical storage makes use of all that empty wall space. Most people only use the bottom half of their walls—why not go higher?
Install tall shelves to fit your whole collection in a small footprint. Put the games you play most at eye level.
On each shelf, organize by height:
- Top: Games you rarely play and storage bins
- Eye level: Favorites and new games
- Bottom: Heavier games and kids’ titles
Use stackable bins up high. Clear containers let you see what’s inside without pulling everything down.
Keep a small step stool nearby for those top shelves. Pick one that tucks under the bottom shelf when not in use.
Label shelves clearly so everyone knows where games belong. This keeps things tidy even when others help put games away.
Utilizing Wall-Mounted and Floating Shelves
Wall-mounted racks and floating shelves are perfect for small rooms or extra storage. They keep games in sight and off the floor.
Hang floating shelves at different heights for visual interest. Stagger them to fit your game box sizes.
Wall-mounted shelves are great for:
- Showing off collectible or cool-looking boxes
- Storing card games you use often
- Holding game accessories
Pick shelves with a 3-inch lip to stop boxes from sliding off. This little feature saves a lot of headaches.
Mount shelves into wall studs for strength. Use heavy-duty brackets rated for at least 20 pounds per foot.
Add LED strip lights under floating shelves if you’re feeling fancy. It lights up the game titles and adds a nice vibe to the room.
Game Storage Containers and Accessories
The right containers and accessories turn a messy game pile into an organized system that makes setup a breeze. Storage boxes, bins, and special containers keep parts safe, while labels make finding games quick.
Benefits of Storage Boxes and Plastic Bins
Storage boxes and plastic bins are the backbone of any organized game collection. They protect from dust, moisture, and damage, and they save space.
Clear plastic bins let you spot what you need without digging through everything. Stackable designs help you use vertical space in closets or on shelves.
Uniform storage boxes give your shelves a neat, tidy look. Standard sizes make stacking easy.
Try different container types:
- Large bins for big board games
- Medium boxes for regular-sized games
- Small clear containers for expansions
- Stackable bins for tight spaces
Lidded containers keep dust out and pieces in. Look for lids that stay put when you move the box.
Tackling Small Components with Tackle Boxes and Small Containers
Small game pieces like dice, tokens, and cards need their own storage or they’ll disappear fast. Tackle boxes and small plastic containers are perfect for this job.
Tackle boxes have lots of compartments in one case. You can adjust dividers to fit different pieces.
Small containers with their own lids work well for sorting by game or piece type. Use them for:
- Dice and tokens
- Playing cards and game cards
- Mini figures
- Rulebooks
Photo storage cases are awesome for cards. They stop bending and make sorting simple.
Zippered pouches are great for travel games or pieces you use a lot. Clear ones make it easy to see what’s inside.
Labeling for Quick Retrieval
Good labeling turns mystery boxes into an organized system anyone can use. Labels save time and cut down on setup headaches.
A label maker gives you easy-to-read labels that stick well. Match label colors to your bins or use clear ones for a cleaner look.
Label both the front and top of containers. That way, you can spot the right game whether boxes are stacked or shelved.
Add these details to your labels:
- Game name
- Number of players
- Age range
- Play time
Color-coded labels help sort by type, difficulty, or player count. Use the same colors everywhere for consistency.
Photo labels are handy for bins with lots of small parts. Snap a pic of what’s inside and tape it to the box for easy reference.
Creative and DIY Game Storage Ideas
DIY game storage saves money and lets you make pieces that fit your needs. You can turn everyday furniture into storage and add some personal flair at the same time.
Repurposing Furniture for Game Storage
Coffee tables with storage are fantastic for games. Look for ones with drawers or hollow centers. You can stash your favorites inside and keep the tabletop clear.
Media consoles also work great for board games. Their shelves fit most boxes, and many have doors to hide the wild colors.
Storage ottomans do double duty as seats and storage. Rectangular shapes make organizing easier. The hinged top lets you grab games fast.
Old bookshelves can become game storage with a few tweaks. Add adjustable shelves for different box heights. Use bins or baskets on the bottom for loose pieces and card games.
Turn vintage wooden crates into rolling game storage by adding wheels. Stack a few and you’ve got a unique storage tower that goes wherever you need it.
Customizing Storage with Modular Units
Cube storage systems really give you flexibility as your collection grows. You can start with just one unit, then add more cubes when you need them. Each cube usually fits about 4-6 standard board games.
Plastic drawer units help you sort games by type or how often you play them. Clear drawers make it easy to see what’s inside. If you label each drawer, you’ll find games even faster.
Stackable bins let you build custom towers for storage. Pick bins with secure lids if you want to store games long-term. Try mixing different sizes so you can fit all sorts of game boxes.
You can add dividers and inserts to use your space better. Cardboard dividers work well for making custom compartments. That way, boxes won’t slide around and get damaged.
Space-Saving Hacks and Solutions
Under-bed storage containers make use of space you might forget about. Flat containers slide under the bed without trouble. You can stash seasonal games or ones you don’t play much there.
Wall-mounted shelves open up floor space and show off your collection. Put them at different heights if you want things to look more interesting. Shelf lips help keep games from falling off.
Door organizers turn closet doors into bonus storage spots. You can install narrow shelves or hang organizers right on the door. They’re great for card games and smaller boxes.
Vertical storage racks let you store games upright, just like books. You’ll see the titles easily and save about 40% more space compared to stacking. Bookends keep everything from tipping over.
Maintaining and Updating Your Game Organization
You have to keep up with organization if you want your collection to stay useful. Taking care of your games protects them, and regular updates make sure your system doesn’t fall apart.
Protecting and Preserving Board Games
Store board games in a dry, cool environment to keep them safe from sunlight and moisture. Big temperature swings can warp boards and ruin cards.
Keep your games upright whenever you can. That stops pieces from moving around and getting damaged.
Check game boxes every month for wear or damage. If you see torn corners, patch them up with clear tape before they get worse. Look for loose pieces that might fall out.
Use plastic bags or small containers inside boxes for different game pieces. This keeps things organized and makes setup way faster.
Wipe game boards with a slightly damp cloth and be sure to dry them completely before putting them away. Skip harsh chemicals—they can mess up the artwork or text.
Put heavy games on lower shelves so they don’t fall. Keep lighter games at eye level so you can grab them easily.
Routine Checks and Reorganization Tips
Take a look at your organization system every three months to see if it’s still working for you. If you bring home new games, just put them in their spots right away—don’t let them pile up.
Check if your games are still in alphabetical order, or whatever system you like. If something’s out of place, go ahead and fix it.
Whenever you buy or sell games, update your inventory list. You can keep a simple spreadsheet, or maybe try a board game app if that’s more your style.
Notice games you haven’t played in a year or more? Maybe it’s time to let them go. Selling or donating them can clear up space for something new.
If your collection’s getting bigger, adjust the shelf heights. Some of those taller boxes might need more room than you thought at first.
Swap out any worn storage containers or dividers that aren’t doing their job anymore. Keeping things tidy just feels better, doesn’t it?