Struggling with board game boxes piled everywhere? I’m about to solve that problem for you.
In this article, you’ll find:
- Space-saving storage ideas for any home
- DIY projects that cost almost nothing
- Ways to protect games from damage
- Kid-friendly organization systems
- Products worth buying (and which to skip)
I’ve spent years collecting over 100 board games. Through trial and error, I’ve learned what truly works. Those stackable boxes falling on your kids? The missing pieces? The damaged box corners? All fixable.
Whether you own 5 games or 50, proper storage does more than clear clutter. It protects your investment and makes game night stress-free. You deserve to enjoy your games without the mess they create.
Let’s transform that chaos into order, starting right now.
Understand Your Board Game Inventory
Before buying any storage solution, take a good look at what you have. Spread out all your games. Count them. Measure them.
Ask yourself:
- How many games do I own?
- What sizes are they?
- Which ones do I play most often?
- Do any have odd shapes or extra pieces?
This simple step saved me from buying storage that was too small. Trust me, you’ll thank yourself later.
Storage Ideas by Space Type
Where you keep your games matters. Let’s explore options based on different areas in your home.
A. Living Room Solutions
Your living room is likely where you play most games. Why not make it your storage zone too?
Coffee tables with storage work wonders. I keep my top 5 games in mine, ready for impromptu game nights. Side tables and entertainment centers offer hidden spots for game boxes.
For a bolder approach, try display shelving. Your collection becomes instant decor, showing off your personality.
B. Closet & Cabinet Storage
Not ready to showcase your hobby? Closets and cabinets keep things hidden yet accessible.
Adjustable shelving is your friend. I installed some in my hallway closet and doubled my storage capacity.
Consider these cabinet hacks: Use tension rods to create dividers between stacks of games. Add pull-out drawers for small games that tend to get lost in the shuffle. Label shelves by game type or player count for quicker access on game night. These simple changes make a huge difference in usability.
Deep kitchen cabinets you rarely use? Perfect for those oversized game boxes!
C. Small Space Hacks
Living in a tiny apartment doesn’t mean giving up your hobby. Think vertical. Wall-mounted shelves use space that would otherwise go to waste.
Under-bed storage containers slide out of sight but keep games protected.
My favorite small-space trick? Bag it up. Many games don’t need their bulky boxes. Transfer pieces to labeled ziplock bags, then store those in a single bin.
Creative DIY Board Game Storage Projects
Ready to get your hands dirty? These projects save money while solving storage problems.
1. Custom game shelves
I built mine using basic lumber from the hardware store. Just measure your tallest game box, then add 1 inch for clearance.
Pine boards and L-brackets cost me under $30 total. The secret is spacing shelves at exactly the right height, no wasted vertical space. Sand the edges smooth to prevent box damage when sliding games in and out.
2. Hanging storage pockets
Shoe organizers can hold small box games and card games. Hang one on the back of a door for instant storage.
Clear plastic pockets let you see what’s inside without opening. I reinforced the seams with fabric glue for extra durability. Perfect for kids’ games since they can reach the lower pockets easily.
3. Magnetic storage
For games with metal pieces, try attaching a magnetic sheet to the wall. The pieces stay put and create interesting wall art.
I found adhesive magnetic sheets online for about $15. They’re strong enough to hold chess pieces, metal meeples, and even small tools for miniature games. Plus, they double as a spot to display rules during gameplay.
4. Upcycled furniture
That old dresser headed for donation? Give it new life as game storage. A fresh coat of paint works wonders.
Remove smaller drawers and install a tension rod for hanging file folders, perfect for storing game boards separately. Add felt to drawer bottoms to prevent box scratches. My transformed nightstand now holds 18 games and looks better than before.
Preservation & Maintenance Tips
Storing games properly keeps them playable for years.
Avoid direct sunlight. It fades boxes and warps boards. Keep games away from heating vents and humid areas. Nothing ruins cardboard faster than moisture.
For valuable games, consider these extra steps:
- Use silica gel packets to absorb moisture
- Store boards flat to prevent warping
- Bag small pieces in clear plastic
- Reinforce box corners with clear tape
I check my collection twice a year for signs of damage. This simple habit has saved several favorite games.
Kid-Friendly Board Game Storage
Teaching kids to respect and store games properly is a game-changer.
Color-coding works wonders. I use colored stickers on both the shelf and the matching game box. Lower shelving puts games within reach, encouraging independence.
For kids’ games with many pieces, try:
- Clear plastic containers
- Photo storage boxes
- Small baskets with labels
The trick? Make cleanup fun. We have a 10-minute “beat the clock” challenge before bedtime.
Aesthetic & Instagram-Worthy Ideas
Who says storage can’t be stylish?
Theme your display by color, creating a rainbow effect that brightens any room. Frame game boards from thrift store finds. They make unique wall art that hints at your hobby. Use decorative boxes for card games. No one will know they’re looking at your Magic: The Gathering collection.
My personal touch? I added small LED lights to my game shelves. They create ambiance for evening game sessions.
Best Products for Board Game Storage
Sometimes, buying the right product beats DIY. Here are my top picks:
- KALLAX shelves from IKEA Perfect cube size for most games. Affordable and versatile.
- The Container Store’s Clear Storage Boxes Great for games without boxes or with damaged ones.
- Expandable Bookends Keep games upright without falling over.
- Banker’s Boxes Budget-friendly option for games you play less often.
- BCW Card Storage Boxes Ideal for protecting card games.
Conclusion
You don’t need to fix everything today. Start with one shelf or even one game. Remember why you’re doing this: to protect your investment and make game nights easier.
I began with just a few hooks on the wall. Three years later, my collection has a dedicated space that friends admire. Your situation is unique. A studio apartment needs different solutions than a suburban home. Your perfect system might combine several ideas from this article.
The true test? When someone says “let’s play something,” and you can find the perfect game in seconds. Take that first step today. Organize one area, then celebrate with a game night.
Your future self will thank you when game night becomes about playing, not searching.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I store oddly-shaped game boxes like Jenga or Twister?
Consider removing components from original packaging and storing in clear containers. For games with tubes or long boxes, try magazine holders placed horizontally on shelves.
What’s the best way to organize multiple expansions for the same game?
Store the base game and all expansions in the largest box, using small labeled bags for different sets. Create a simple index card listing what’s included and tape it inside the lid.
How can I protect my games from pets and toddlers?
Cabinet doors with childproof locks work wonderfully for lower shelves. For open shelving, store precious games above the 4-foot mark and use decoy boxes with less important games below.
Is it worth keeping the plastic wrap inserts from game boxes?
Yes, those vacuum-formed plastic trays help prevent piece migration and box damage. If you lose the original insert, DIY replacements using foam core board work even better.
What’s a creative way to store tiny card games like Love Letter or Fluxx?
Repurpose tea tins, cigar boxes, or photo storage cases with dividers. Add custom labels on top and they’ll look intentional while protecting small boxes from being crushed.
