savvy storage solutions for LEGO lovers / part 1 "bricks"

As you probably gathered from my last post, my kids (and husband!) LOVE LEGO. I grew up playing with the infamous bricks, too, but didn't have nearly the size, shape, or color range that exists now.

I'm less into building now, and more intrigued to create LEGO storage systems that work. Because whether your kid likes LEGO sets or prefers to build from their imagination, there are always plenty of pieces (bricks, plates, tiles, slopes, etc.) to put away after play. Full disclosure: I’m not a LEGO building expert. True LEGO enthusiasts have incredible systems for sorting, storing, and organizing each piece. The tips I share are based on what I’ve tried and tweaked as the size of my girls’ collection has grown. So let’s get into it!

1. SORTING LEGO

Experts say sorting by type is best. I say go with your personal bandwidth and what’s simplest for your child. We separate out the smallest pieces, then divide by color family: ROY (red, orange, yellow combined), Greens, Blues, Purples/Pinks, Browns, Grays, Black, White. Sorting by color has been awesome for finding pieces, putting them away, and flexing those sharing muscles.

2. LEGO STORAGE

Before LEGO, kids typically start out building with chunky bricks. Easy to sort through. Pretty quick to clean up. When they transition to LEGO, the bricks get smaller, and the colors and types grow exponentially. Storing it all in one giant bin is a nightmare to sort through and your kiddo will be asking for help.

If you choose to separate out smaller pieces, try storing them in an upcycled plastic jar with a lid. This makes finding teeny tiny shapes much easer, especially in the midst of crafting a masterpiece!

Upcycled jars are also a great no-cost way to test out whether sorting by color (or type) works for you. It’s what we explored when LEGO hit its stride in our home. Once the girls were gifted with more sets, I opted to invest in the KUGGIS box w/lid by @ikea. They’re strong, they stack, and the lids double as trays you can pour LEGO into to search for a particular shade or shape. The white is also a crisp, clean look that’s attractive anywhere and will only be better with LABELS! #onmylist

Ultimately, how you organize your LEGO (or not) has to work for the age and stage of play your kiddo is in. Keeping your storage system simple keeps it fluid and flexible to grow with everyone. In part 2 of this post, I'll get into what to do with those LEGO creations once they're built. Until then, happy building!

Always,