If you have kids, you have stuff. As kids grow, their stuff seems to grow with them and storing it presents a challenge. Adding shelves to a kid's room can help parents get a handle on stuff and get it off the floor. As with any project in a child's room, safety comes first. Shelves must be functional and easy for the child to access.
Bookcases
Adding bookcases to a room is the easiest way to create extra storage for kids of any age. Choose age-appropriate bookcases. A good rule to follow: the older the child, the taller the shelves. Make sure shelves are deep and sturdy, reducing the chances of them toppling over.
Milk crates
Stacking these plastic boxes creates instant shelves. Use primary colors, grouped together to create cubbyholes for children ages 10 and under. Pre-teens and teens may prefer all black or all white. If stacking more than two crates high, use plastic wire ties to bind the crates together. Purchase milk crates at office supply or home goods stores.
Garage storage shelves
Garage storage shelves are sturdy, which makes them ideal for a kid's room. The shelves are deep, making it easy to store large boxes or baskets to hold toys. Those made of 18-gauge steel hold up to 500 lbs. per shelf. These shelves are least likely to fall over. Avoid wooden garage shelves which may cause splinters.
Tiered shelves
Tiered shelves allow you to prioritize a child's belongings. Purchase tiered shelves in threes to create a wall system. Place the heaviest items at the bottom and safe, fluffy toys, such as stuffed animals, on the top shelves. Attach these to the wall using brackets, screws or toggles.
Built-ins
Expensive, but safe, custom-built shelving offers you the most flexibility. Include a bench within the wall unit for reading or create slats for magazines and text books. Future-proof the unit by adding a desk area and outlets for cable and high-speed Internet.
Armoire
Armoires serve as shelves with doors. They add interest to a room and allow you to conceal messes. Fun---even funky---armoires are available at department or discount stores. Because armoires are heavy and often bulky, they pose a safety hazard if not secured to the floor or against the wall.
