What Not to Buy: Kids Edition
There are so many organizers out there for kids and their belongings. And while it might be tempting to dive into yet another list of top-rated picks, I’m changing it up. Instead of highlighting what you should buy, I’m going to save you some time (and money) by sharing what not to buy for your kids.
Let’s get into it.
Fabric, front facing bookshelves
Many parents gravitate toward front-facing bookshelves so kids can see the book covers and (hopefully) feel more inspired to read. Sounds like a great idea, right?
One of the more affordable versions of these shelves is made of fabric slings. But here's the problem: the books just flop forward into a saggy mess. Instead of inviting your child to pick up a book, it ends up looking cluttered—and makes it hard to actually see the covers.
Instead
Go for a solid wood front-facing shelf. It gives structure and support, and yes, it costs a bit more, but it’ll look neater and last longer, like this bookshelf.
On a budget? Try wall mounted bookshelves! They keep things tidy, and you can control how many books are out at once. In fact, fewer choices can help kids stay more engaged and less overwhelmed. Rotate a small selection of books and toys regularly for a more engaging and maintainable setup.
The rainbow storage shelf
You’ve probably seen this one: a low rack with plastic bins tilted forward, usually in bright, playful colors. It seems like a great idea at first—until it lives in your home.
Here's why I don’t recommend it:
The tilt causes items to spill out constantly.
It looks messy since you can see everything inside.
And most importantly, it’s not user-friendly for little hands. Cleaning up becomes a battle instead of a routine.
Kids thrive with organization systems that are simple and intuitive. This one just doesn’t cut it.
A Better Option: Cube Organizer
Okay, I lied—I am going to recommend one thing.
A basic cube organizer (like the ones you’ll find at Target or Walmart) is a total game-changer. It’s:
Sturdy and durable
Budget-friendly
Easy to customize with bins, baskets, or left open for books and toys
Best of all, it grows with your child—from baby years to teen life and beyond. Use it in the playroom, bedroom, or even a hallway.
