As parents, we naturally want the best for our children. We shop for top-of-the-line toys, review high-quality clothing, and research crib safety standards; however, as time goes by, we also realize that most of these items are of no interest to our child or simply to be put in the garage sale pile to be resold. A child’s toy box is no exception. While a toy box is a great way to teach a child organization, even the finest quality boxes can collect dust and find a permanent home in the attic. So what’s a dad to do with an old toy box that’s no longer used for his kid’s toys?
For plastic or wooden boxes, the sky is the limit of uses. One just has to sit down and use a little creative imagination. The easiest idea to reuse one would be to simply change what’s stored inside. Place your pet’s toys inside, use it as a laundry hamper, or attach it to the back of your car or trunk for jumper cables, tools, or groceries. Get your kids involved in making a time capsule that will hold their favorite toys and memories to look at for years to come. Don’t be afraid to take it outside either! It can be used for garden equipment, pool toys, or lawn equipment. To really get the green effect on your reuse, turn it into a compost bin or recycling bin!
Storage isn’t the only option, either. Attach wheels to the bottom and decorate it like the upcoming Indy 500 cart. Sew a canopy and attach it to the top for a covered cart. Place pillows or a cushion on the closed lid for an entryway bench. Does Fido need a place to sleep? Place a blanket and pillow inside for a pet bed. You can even decorate it as a coffin on Halloween!
Plastic toy boxes are very versatile; They can even be used to house chicks! It’s the perfect size with a few extra vents, chicken wire, and some handy work; You’ll be raising chickens in no time! It could also be converted into an incubator for bird eggs. How about taking some of your plants and giving them a new home indoors? Headed to the big game? Take it on ice and TOUCHDOWN! to an instant cooler!
For durable wooden boxes, think outside the “box” as you flip it upright to store DVDs, CDs, or books. If you add shelves inside, you now have a potential wine rack! Flip it all the way around for a kid-sized table. And the most economical use for a wooden toy box… set it apart to light at your next campfire!
A child’s toy box creates memories that remain stored inside forever. Open the lid to create a world of new memories!
