Relief is at hand for parents who despair of ever getting on top of a child’s messy room.

Burbank Homes displays presentation co-ordinator Jacqui Mallia says parents can devise 
creative storage solutions that “don’t feel like a chore to kids”. 

“If regular storage options such as cupboards or tallboys are ignored, or aren’t sufficient to contain 
the countless toys and knick-knacks, try floating shelves or laminated, open cube shelves fixed to the
 wall as a more versatile take on traditional storage,” Ms Mallia says.


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“Not only do they keep books and toys off the floor while displaying them brightly on the wall, they also score points for being very user-friendly to little ones.”

The Burbank spokesperson adds that floating shelves are also available in a variety of materials and finishes to match any room and can be painted for an extra dollop of colour.


“Pastels, fun patterns such as Indian arrows, noughts and crosses, and buttons are all popular choices 
in kids’ rooms right now,” Ms Mallia says.


Kids love mess, but you can help make tidying up a habit. Source: Shutterstock

She points out that “two-in-one” furniture items which have a storage capacity are another clever 
way to keep rooms tidy.

“Colourful storage boxes which double as seats or ottomans are a simple way to introduce more
 storage, and can be moved underneath a desk or table when not in use to free up more floor space,” Ms Mallia says.


Space under beds can also be utilised for storing items.

“Under-the-bed storage is a fantastic way to store bulky gear that may be less frequently used, like winter clothing, sandcastle equipment and Lego sets. Just bear in mind that this can become very heavy
 so consider installing castor wheels to slide the items out easily.”

To improve existing storage, Ms Mallia recommends investing in some DIY items, such as 
pull-out drawers. Also, she says householders can hang storage pouches that help maximise available 
space.

But Ms Mallia stresses the best way to ensure a kids’ room stays tidy is to make the job fun.

“Create interactive and engaging little pockets within the room that are really storage spaces in disguise,’’ she says.

“A pin board on the wall can be used to display artwork, photos and school achievements without cluttering up desks. Window decals also add great imagination to the room and won’t
 take up any space in the cupboard – or the floor!”

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