These creative shared bedroom ideas are perfect for families, whether it’s for big kids, babies, or a combination of the two.
Anyone who lives in a home with more bodies than they have space for knows all too well that shared rooms are just part of the deal (and sometimes all that clutter). But it turns out, that designing a space that makes everyone feel cozy and comfortable (and is good-looking to boot) is possible, no matter who’s sharing the bedroom. Here are six tips for tackling shared bedrooms and how you can replicate the look in your own home.
Shared Room Tip #1: Stack up the Beds
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This triple bunk takes advantage of high ceilings (its height is almost 6.5′ high so this would work best in a room with 9′ ceilings or higher) and is the ultimate space saver when it comes to shared bedroom ideas for those with more than two kids (or for those with one kid who has loads of cousins and sleepover friends). Best part? Costing less than $500—it won’t break the bank. For more bunk bed inspo, check out our round-up of bunk beds that will have everyone fighting for the top bunk.
Shared Room Tip #2: Divide the Room
courtesy Kim Cornelison
Private yet together. This bedroom cleverly splits the bedroom with a privacy wall, complete with handy sconces and built-in storage. The wrap-around wallpaper helps unify the space.
Shared Room Tip #3: Get Creative with Double-Duty Furniture
If an entire wall build-out is out of the question, make double use of a headboard from both sides like this solution by Jennifer Wundrow Int. Design. It offers privacy much like the wall but is executed much less expensively. Bonus: Built-ins at the end of the bed provide extra storage space for books, a glass of water, and other bedtime must-needs.
Insider Tip: If you don’t have a headboard, you can add a bookcase and use it as the divider/headboard.
The graphic nature of these IKEA beds (yes! IKEA) helps make this bedroom look modern and roomy thanks to the tight color palette and minimal bedding. A battenboard wall adds a nice bespoke touch to the room without overwhelming the space.
Shared Room Tip #5: Take Advantage of High Ceilings
Photo by Barnes Vanze Architects, Inc.
Whether you have 9′ high ceilings and can fit a triple bunk bed in a room or have a loft-like space where a niche would work just right—utilizing otherwise wasted space, use high ceilings to your advantage when it comes to shared spaces.
If you are decorating a shared space, make sure to personalize each space for each kid. So whether you have a big kid and a baby sharing a room, a brother and sister, or any combination you choose, make sure that each kid’s bed space reflects them—it could be a favorite color bedspread or even their initials over the bed. Whatever you do, it’ll make the room feel cozier and possibly, make them love sharing a room even more.
The only thing better than getting lost in a book is having your own cozy space devoted to literary escapes. These adorable reading nooks for kids are both simple and stunning. All you need is a corner of your home, some floating shelves, and a bunch of books, and you’ll be on your way to setting up a spot where reading is the focus.
This adorable option from @thunderousdandelion doesn't take up a ton of space in your home. All you need is a corner, a kid-sized chair, some floating shelves to display this week's reads, and a bookshelf for the overflow.
Who doesn't love a bookshelf organized by color? This option from @thesimpleliefofoliver takes it up a notch with rainbow artwork, rainbow sensory toys and rainbow crafts. LOVE!
Instant Reading Nook
It really is as easy as can be with this book nook from KidKraft. Order yours and set it up and you have your own too-cute reading area and bookcase combined!
Julia from Tag & Tibby set out to create a sensory-friendly space for her son, and the result is simply awesome. The little ones can cuddle up in the canopy to read, but can also take plenty of LEGO breaks.
Even if you don’t have much extra space, you can still make a reading nook. All you really need is a corner, a pile of pillows, and a few blankets, like with this sweet space by The Merrythought.
File this one under “dream house”: this daybed setup by House Homemade takes the idea of a reading nook to a whole new level. Flanked by IKEA bookshelves, this is one spot that the whole family would love.
If you've got a cupboard that doesn't do much but collect clutter, get inspired by @pagesofemma's IKEA kids' room idea for turning wasted space into a cozy reading nook using IKEA's Kallax picture shelf units.
We love this bright and beautiful nook by The Effortless Chic. Start off with stacks of pillows on the floor, add a cozy chair, and finish it off with a pretty gallery wall.
Take inspiration from Mama.Papa.Bubba and turn your kiddo’s closet into a reading nook. In this case, they kept clothes hanging in the closet, so you don’t even have to give up all the storage space. Win-win!
You know the old saying: one kid’s closet is another’s a super cool reading nook. While transforming her son’s nursery into a “big boy room,” blogger Elaine also gave his closet a literary makeover. From comfy pillows and art to essential bookshelves, check out how this reading nook was born over at Visual Meringue.
Featured over at Project Nursery, this library-inspired nursery was dreamed up by The Road Forks. Not only does it have a showstopper set of bookshelves, but there’s also a cute closet nook that’s great for book storage and story time.
When creating a home reading nook, it’s always important to consider every angle. That’s what Sunshine on the Inside did, installing gutter shelves that turn a regular corner into a nifty nook.
Ah, the magic of mesh curtains. They offer up a feeling of privacy for little bookworms, but parents can still keep an eye on storytime. If you want to try out this nifty idea for yourself, head on over to Stuff Parents Need for a full tutorial.
Got an empty fireplace in need of a new function? Turn it into a cozy reading space! Take a cue from interior stylist Emily Henson’s blog Life, Unstyled, and round up some fairy lights, cushions, blankets, and books and you’ll have a next-level nook.
If you have stuff in your home, we have a home storage idea for it.
Whether you’re a pro at organization or find yourself getting dressed from a never-ending pile of clean laundry (we totally get it), smart home storage is a must. Although it may feel daunting to attempt to find a place for everything when just making it out the door on time is a challenge, we’re here to help. These home storage ideas are not only genius; they’re easy (which is, of course, one of our favorite words) and don’t require you to be a well-oiled organizational guru to use.
If a box and a drawer had a brilliant baby, it would be this drop-front sweater box. Of course, you can use it for more than just sweaters, but the real draw is the clear window in the magnetic drop-front. Try one for your handbags and clutches, too!
Well, well, well. If it isn't instant fridge bliss. This home storage idea is sustainably designed and is an easy way to whip your fridge into shape in one pass! We had no idea our refrigerators had so much extra space.
There's literally never enough bathroom or kitchen cabinet space, so we're really loving this metal cabinet organizer. The metal design makes it super durable and the pull-out shelves keep all our stuff accessible. We'll take two, please.
This is one of the most satisfying storage ideas we've seen. Fill one of the plastic cubes with pillows, blankets, coats, sweaters, comforters (you get it), then attach any hose-style vacuum to the built-in air plug, and watch your items compress into easy-to-manage packs!
It's not hard to find over-the-door storage solutions, but this one has a metal frame with attached baskets versus thin plastic pockets. We need one for every door in the house.
This food container lid organizer doesn't require an explanation, but we'll miss the avalanche of lids falling out of the cabinet every time we open it.
Closet space is invaluable, and this adjustable closet rod gives you a lot more of it! It attaches easily to your existing rod, allowing you to layer more hangers as needed.
This clever little 3-tier rack easily slides between your washer and dryer, between the wall and the fridge; anywhere you need to create extra storage within a tight space!
Wedding dishes, holiday dishes, dishes you don't want your kids to break, keep them all stored safe in these cushy quilted set with built-in dividers for the next big meal!
This is the pinnacle of kitchen storage and organization! Store, weigh, measure, auto-convert, and dispense ingredients using the Smart Canisters (this set comes with one large and one small canister, but you can grab more separately as needed for all your ingredients!). You can even download the Chefling app and connect it to your PantyChic System. It doesn't get much more pro than that!
We get a full moment of zen just looking at these airtight storage containers. This set of 24 comes with lids and labels, so you'll have everything you need to get your pantry in shape!
These boots were made for sortin', and that's just what this rack does. It fits up to 10 pairs of any size boots and includes smooth clips for hanging them without damaging or denting suede or leather!
Organizing under the sink can be a huge pain, especially because of all the hardware that's down there. This shelving system not only doubles your space, it wraps around the plumbing and adjusts for the perfect fit!
They're in your car, your bag, and falling out of the kitchen cabinets. Water bottles can be really tough to store, so we're big fans of this 2-pack storage system!
So long, bundle of mops and brooms in the corner! This wall-mounted mop and broom (and anything else with a handle) organizer securely grips your tools so you can grab them and go.
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There are so many great things about school. Kids make friends and learn all kinds of cool stuff, and you get to take care of business without having to worry about if they’re spending too much time online. If there’s one downside, it’s probably homework, and while the verdict is still out on how much good it really does, it’s probably going to make its way home at some point during the year. That’s why it’s important to dedicate somewhere to school and learning at home to help kids stay focused. These inspiring ideas go from grand loft bed-desk combinations to simple, small-space work station inspirations, and we think you’ll find one that’s just right for you.
What started as a creative way to make a work station for kids during the pandemic holds up just as well for after-school work. Simply set them up in their spot of choice and roll their supplies over to them.
If your kid’s room doesn’t seem to have space for a desk, Crate and Kids has a cool solution with their Kids Uptown Loft Bed Desk that can be attached to the interior or exterior rail of their Uptown Loft Bed for a cozy study cove (as can a matching shelf for book overflow). A Kathleen Wills design, this look is clean and contemporary, while wall space can shine with personal touches like artwork, maps, or memo boards to spur on study sessions.
IKEA’s FLISAT collection is designed for kids ages three all the way up to 12, so these pieces are meant to be versatile and customizable. They are also made of pine for a non-toxic study station. The legs on this FLISAT desk adjust to one of three heights to accommodate growing learners, while the top tilts for a fully ergonomic fit. It also conveniently holds a roll of drawing paper for artistic study breaks. If you want to round out the room with storage bins (on wheels!), a sweet book display, or a dollhouse-shaped wall shelf for books and other supplies, explore the entire collection.
Pottery Barn Kids’ Catalina Collection is a best-selling desk for good reason. The Catalina Storage Desk comes with three different hutch options, one of which comes with an outlet for easy charging capabilities. The oversized nob on the larger drawers also makes it easy for little hands to fully own and operate this space.
Have you tried setting up study stations in their rooms, but the homework still ends up at the kitchen counter? Your kids, especially during early schooling, may just work better in a space where you can help them stay on task. So go with it and designate cabinet space for school and craft supplies. This design from Mullet Cabinet makes organization and storage a breeze, all in a separate section of the island so parents can still prep dinner and are present for any questions that might come up. Because it's a shared space, kids can also be responsible for setting up and cleaning up—and won’t waste any time hunting down that calculator.
You can get creative with the spot you dedicate for homework. We love how Design Improvised set up this station by a window (it’s important to take those mental pauses to gaze and regroup). With a portable cart that’s labeled and well-stocked with everything little learners would need, a chalkboard calendar for keeping easy track of assignments, and a desk to call their own, they also have everything they need to get to work.
We love this genius setup from The Vintage Glitter House—a painted pegboard offers a fun pop of color as well as lots of space to hang supplies and decorations. That way, your kiddo's pencils, paper, and craft supplies will all be in one spot.
This book set up from Good + Simple will help encourage reluctant readers and is an awesome addition to any study or work station. With sections for "currently reading" and "to read," it'll keep things organized while getting them excited about their next book.
An extra closet becomes a fun "office" space for the kids over at Look Linger Love. Clear plastic bins keep supplies organized and in view, and any mess is easy to conceal by shutting the door. Tucked in a corner of the playroom, you can take a closer look and tour the rest of the adorable space here.
To help create a clutter-free zone in her daughter's room, the clever mom over at Organized Mom decided to mask the mess. With built-in shelving and a fold-up base, this DIY desk easily folds up when not in use.
This combination of study space and craft area is perfect for group projects. The custom-designed craft/work island by Ellen Grasso & Sons features convenient storage space for each seat; supplies can be neatly stored until needed.
Tiny babies mean big changes to your life and daily routine. Even if you have all the apps, organizational tools and advice from other parents on getting through the day, it’s still a lot. While there is no magic fix for getting everything done every single day, these baby hacks work well to simplify your life. Read on to learn some new tricks of the parent trade and find a few that will work for you.
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1. Meal Plan & Prep It's a reality of life that we all need to eat three times a day, everyday. Once a baby starts eating solids, there are even more mouths to feed! Taking some time every week to plan out meals means that during the week you don't need to give a second thought to what's for dinner. Even better, if you can find an hour or two over the weekend to prep, dice and slice, then cooking during the week will make weeknights run much more smoothly.
2. Outsource Identifying where you can outsource (and what's in your budget) can change your life. Think about which household tasks you dislike the most or that you have the hardest time fitting in. For some families, sending their laundry out to be washed and folded is a lifesaver. Other parents rely on cleaning services or meal prep subscriptions to keep their household running smoothly and give them more time with family. Even smaller steps towards outsourcing, such as having groceries delivered, can make a big difference.
3. Have a Shared Schedule Once a baby enters the picture, it's vital for all caregivers to share their schedules. This is key to ensuring that schedule conflicts are kept to a minimum. Using a calendar that can be synched across computers and phones, such as Google Calendar, is a great option you can access from almost anywhere. Even better, color-code events so it's easy to tell at a glance what is a family obligation, what is a work event and so on.
4. Touch Things Once It's tempting to take something that's in your way and simply move it to the closest open spot. However, you will save yourself a lot of time and hassle if you commit to touching things just once. In practice, this means that once you have your hands on something that needs to be put away, you take a few extra seconds to put it back where it belongs, instead of stacking it on the table or an existing pile. This not only saves time but greatly simplifies life because you will always know where to find what you need.
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5. Double Duty Look for places in your day where you can double up on duties, or delegate them to older kids. Some parents find that time spent watching TV after the kids go to sleep is a great time to fold laundry. Others use time spent on the phone to go for a walk to get some exercise or straighten up. Everyone needs some downtime, but looking for opportunities to multi-task can really make your day go more smoothly.
6. Daily Tasks Some families swear that the key to making their household run smoothly is doing some tasks daily. You may find that running the dishwasher and putting on a load of laundry everyday helps you stay on top of chores and save time in the long run.
7. Make a Schedule Having a set schedule to get things done can be a lifesaver. If bills piling up are stressful, set aside an hour one night a month to pay bills. If you constantly have a long list of phone calls to make, pick one day a week to go through your list. Just having time set aside to take care of all of the little things that add up can do wonders for reducing stress and simplifying life.
8. Book Time for Yourself If you find you are putting yourself last, as most new moms do, make sure you set aside some time for yourself to do something you enjoy. That could be reading a book, going to brunch with your bestie or going for a run every weekend. Put this on your calendar, tell your partner, and treat it a non-negotiable obligation. Some time away from the daily grind, even if it's just an hour at a time, can help you face everything else you need to do with more patience and grace.
9. Simplify Shopping Shopping for items in bulk is one of the best baby hacks. As long as you have some storage space, stocking up on items like paper towels, diapers and canned beans that can last for years can save hours every year. It can also ensure you're not unexpectedly caught without something essential. Once you're stocked up, limit grocery shopping to once a week for fresh items only. This not only cuts back on number of times you need to shop, but it makes those trips much shorter.
10. Set a Timer There is no magic number of books or toys your child needs. However, there probably is a limit to the number of minutes you are willing to spend cleaning up every day. Whether you can devote 10 minutes or 30 to tidying up daily, leave out only the items that can be put away within your limits. Put everything else in storage to rotate in when your little one needs something new to hold their attention. Another awesome timer trick is to set aside time every day to do a few chores and straighten up. For example, taking 15 minutes before sitting down for dinner to put things away can really make a difference in your day.
11. Mark It Up New parents spend a lot of time getting up at all hours of the night. While you're trapped under a fussy or nursing baby, your mind may drift to thinking thinking about what belongs on your to-do list. Keep a dry erase marker by your bathroom sink. Whenever you remember something important that needs to get done, write it on your mirror so you don't forget. After you add these items to your calendar, just wipe the mirror clean and you are ready for a fresh start.
12. Ditch the Decor It may be tempting to keep pretty decor on display. However, after having kids there are some new considerations beyond aesthetics. Anything fragile within grabbing reach of little ones need to go for safety peace of mind. Even those out of the danger zone present an extra challenge: They take up space and collect dust. Before deciding what to keep and what to ditch, ask yourself if it's worth dusting or giving up storage space to. If the answer is no, donate it.
13. Use a Command Center Whether it's virtual or tangible, having a command center where you can leave notes for your partner, a babysitter and even yourself is an essential part of simplifying family life. There are some fantastic hi-tech and low-tech options for keeping essential information accessible.
Holding on to baby gear for your next child is a smart move, saving you both money and time. Unless these items pose a risk to your child’s health or safety. So pack up the baby clothes, books and toys and then read on to find out how to safely reuse baby gear for your next child.
A word of caution: For anything you keep, check to make sure there have not been any recalls, that no pieces are missing, and that everything is intact and in good working order before you sacrifice storage space to it.
What to Ditch
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Mattresses There is some evidence that used crib mattresses pose an increased risk of sudden infant death syndrome. While the risk is higher from mattresses from a different home, there is still a slightly increased risk of SIDS when a mattress is reused by a sibling. Additionally, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that babies sleep on a firm, flat surface. Many mattresses become soft and develop divots with use. This means used mattresses may be unsafe.
Nipples Nipples for baby bottles are usually made from silicone or rubber, and both substances break down over time. They can also degrade after exposure to heat from repeated washings. For this reason, you should replace nipples for baby number two.
Pacifiers Like nipples, pacifiers are normally made from materials that do not stand the test of time. There is also a risk that older pacifiers may break off of their base, posing a choking hazard. Given how inexpensive pacifiers are, it makes sense to replace them all.
Think Before You Keep
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Car Seats It's never a good idea to buy a used car seat, since there is no way to be sure its safety wasn't compromised in an accident. However, if you want to reuse an older sibling's car seat, it might be safe to do so. The most important thing to check is that the car seat has not expired. If the car seat is past its use-by date, or if it has ever been in an accident, get rid of it. Otherwise, it's usually safe to use a car seat for a younger sibling as long as all parts are intact. Keep in mind that car seat technology is constantly evolving, so even if your old car seat is still in good shape it might be a good idea to invest in a new car seat with better safety features.
Breast Pump It's perfectly safe for many mothers to reuse their own breast pumps for a second child. All parts should be sterilized and checked for signs of mold before use. Most parts can be sterilized by placing them in boiling water for 5 minutes or using a specially designed microwavable pouch. It is not safe to use a breast pump that has previously been used by another woman, with the exception of hospital-grade pumps. There is a risk of contamination from bacterial or viral particles that can make a baby sick. Many insurance companies cover a new breast pump for each pregnancy, so check your coverage before making a decision.
Keep It
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And now for the good news about how to reuse baby gear the safe way.
Crib Most cribs are sturdy and can safely be used for multiple children, as long as the mattress is replaced. Make sure your old crib meets current safety standards and check for recalls. If there are features now considered unsafe, such as drop sides or large spaces between slats, it's time for a new crib. Otherwise, reusing a crib can save you a bundle.
High Chair High chairs may get dirty, but most are built to take a beating. As long as your high chair has no broken parts, remains stable and there is no risk of baby sliding out, it's likely safe for you to reuse this essential item.
Stroller Strollers are one of the most reused items for second babies for good reason! Well-made strollers last a long time and remain functional even if the fabric fades. Unlike car seats, safety features have not changed much over time. If you don't need to upgrade to a double stroller once a new bambino appears on the scene, chances are good it's perfectly safe to use your stroller for another child.
Bottles Most baby bottles can be cleaned and sterilized easily. That means it's safe to use them for multiple babies. But make sure to replace those nipples.
Slings and Carriers Baby slings, wraps and carriers generally hold up over time. As long as there are no broken buckles and straps remain taut, it's likely safe to reuse your favorite carrier.
Playmat
Babies need a lot of tummy time. Luckily, most play mats and baby gyms can be cleaned and reused safely.
Baby Bath If your baby bathtub is free of cracks and mold there is no reason it can't be used again!
Cloth Diapers Although there may be a little bit of a "yuck" factor, cloth diapers are safe to reuse for a second child. It's very easy to wash cloth diapers and make them good as new.
Bouncers Baby bouncers are a lifesaver for many parents of newborns, since they give their arms a much needed break. As helpful as they are, this essential piece of gear is relatively simple. That means there is not much that can go wrong, making most safe to reuse for your next baby.
Whether it’s trying to stash cash for the future or add to the family travel fund, figuring out how to save money is a move in every parent’s playbook. From simple hacks like keeping a change jar to money-saving apps, we’ve got some awesome tips just for you. Keep reading to see them all.
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Keep a Change Jar: This has to be one of the easiest money-saving tips! Drop your spare change in at the end of each day and watch your savings grow.
Always Use Cash: Avoid using your card whenever possible. Fact: Using cash allows you to see how much you’re spending and keeps you accountable.
Time Big Purchases: Save all of your big purchases for the end of the month to get the best deals. If a salesperson is trying to make month-end goals, she might be willing to work with you on the price.
School Supplies: When it comes to school supplies, the earlier you shop the better. You’ll find more options and more savings.
Buy Themed Supplies After the Fact: Always purchase plates, cups and napkins on sale after holidays like Halloween, Fourth of July and Easter are over. You can stow away to use the following next year.
Groupon: This is definitely one of our favorite money-saving apps! Discover great deals for all types of events and products for your family.
SnipSnap: Ever wanted a money-saving app to keep you organized? This is the ultimate place to store all of your printed coupons right on your phone.
Honey: Install Honey on your browser and it'll automatically search the internet for all the coupons being offered for the website you're shopping on. It applies the savings at checkout.
Coupons: Do you miss clipping all those paper coupons? Check out Coupons, where you can sift through tons of digital coupons. You might have to print out some, but many can be used via your smartphone.
Checkout 51: This cash-back app saves you money at grocery stores, gas stations, drugstores and more. Checkout 51 adds new items every week, too.
Cloth Diapers: Babies go through diapers like crazy, and if you're searching for money-saving tips that will help you save the planet, cloth diapers are the way to go. Here are our favorites.
Wool Balls in Your Dryer: Forget that chemical fabric softener, and throw a wool ball in your dryer instead—they can be used over and over with ease.
Create a Non-Toxic Cleaner: If you want to stop using harsh chemical cleaners, you can actually keep your family healthy and save cash by making your own cleaner in a snap.
Shop Unique Sales: No need to obsess over department store sales. Look out for sample, garage and consignment sales for everything from clothes to toys.
Do Specific Searches: No more aimless scrolling! Avoid impulsive purchases by searching for the specific products you’re looking for when you shop online.
Grow & Plant Your Food: It takes a bit of extra work, but growing your veggies and planting your own trees can be a fun activity that will save you quite a bit of money in the long run.
Skip the Coffee Shop: Brew your own coffee at home and save $5-$7 every day!
Baby Food: Making your own baby food is actually surprisingly easy. Follow simple recipes to make yummy and healthy options for your little one.
Check Your Bills: Take an in-depth look at your cell phone and cable bills to make sure you’re not paying for features you don’t use.
Retail Me Not: Ever wanted to find out how to save money when you're shopping? Get paid to shop at your favorite stores by signing up with Retail Me Not.
Neighbor: Make money by renting out a spare room, garage or closet as storage space for others by downloading and registering for Neighbor.
GasBuddy: On the road and need gas ASAP? Use this money-saving app to find the cheapest gas closest to you.
Hotel Tonight: Have an unexpected stop on your vacay? Find low price hotels your family will love (You can also use this app to get great deals in advance!).
BestParking: Going on a cool adventure to a new city? This money-saving app will help you find parking that won’t break the bank.
Open a Travel Credit Card: Many credit cards (especially airline cards) offer extra points and incentives if you spend a certain amount of money within the first few months of opening an account. Some even offer double points for travel-related expenses, so take advantage of this perk and charge away.
Buy Themed Gear Ahead of Time: Your kid will want to represent her favorite character anyway, so why not buy it and bring it along for the trip? You'll save tons by avoiding marked-up resort prices.
It’s always a good time to give back to your community. Why not give back, declutter your closets and toy bins while helping the planet at the same time? We’ve gathered a list of places where you can used toy donations support great causes and families in need. Everybody wins!
Looking to offload some of your pre-loved toys to another family in your community? ToyCycle is perfect and offers peer-to-peer toy recycling where you post available items and arrange for pick up and vice versa if you see an item that you can use. They even have an app that makes it easy to post the items that you'd like to pass down. Note: Items are sorted by age to make it easier to find what you need.
SCRAP Old objects find new lives at SCRAP, the Bay Area's first re-use center for creative education. Donations of art supplies, craft supplies, toys, textiles and office supplies are sorted, stored and made available to the community for educational programs and creative projects in the classroom and at home. SCRAP accepts donations of clean, reusable materials Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Check online for a full list of accepted materials and call ahead to ensure that they have enough storage space to accept your donation.
801 Toland St. San Francisco, CA Online: scrap-sf.org
Salvation Army The Salvation Army Family Store and Donation Center in San Francisco accepts used toy donations, books and children's clothing. Mon.-Sat., 9 a.m.-7 p.m., and Sun., 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Donated items are sold in the Family Store and the proceeds are used to fund the Salvation Army's Adult Rehabilitation Centers. You can even schedule a pickup!
Editor's Note: Edgewood Center for Children and Families has moved from San Carlos to San Francisco.
New Location Alert! The Edgewood Center for Children and Families has moved but is still providing treatment and prevention programs to children, youth and families that have experienced traumatic stress. Show your support by donating to their wish list that includes art supplies, gently used tablets, personal care items, sports equipment, household items, books, dolls, puppets, toy trucks and games in new or excellent condition. Donations are given directly to clients.
1801 Vicente St. San Francisco, CA Online: edgewood.org
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Goodwill Goodwill in San Francisco accepts donations of household items, women's clothing, men's clothing and children's items including books, baby gear (must meet current safety standards), sports equipment, games and toys. Drop off hours are Mon.-Sat. 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Sun. 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Donated items are sold in Goodwill stores and the proceeds are used to fund programs that help disadvantaged individuals learn competitive job skills and find employment.
1669 Fillmore St. San Francisco, CA Online: goodwill.org
Homeless Prenatal Program For over 30 years the Homeless Prenatal Program in San Francisco has been serving as an empowering resource center for families. The center accepts gently used baby and maternity clothing, children's and parenting books. COVID-19 Update: The program is ONLY accepting baby formula, baby food, diapers and wipes at this time. Call for drop-off hours. You can also make a cash donation online.
SF Smiles SF Smiles collects donations by appointment only of new and gently used essentials for individuals and families in need throughout the San Francisco Bay Area. SF Smiles is run on a volunteer basis by Chad Christensen out of his family home in the Inner Sunset neighborhood of San Francisco. Chad and his volunteers redistribute donations directly to families and also work with many local organizations to reach their programs’ clients.
Editor's Note: BANANAS is not accepting on-site donations at this time. Visit their Virtual Boutique to learn how to help those in need.
BANANAS provides affordable child care, workshops, classes and support groups for families in Northern Alameda County. Their BANANAS Boutique provides low-income parents with free books, toys and equipment for their children. Your donations of clean and gently used toys, books, puzzles, games, children's clothing and maternity wear keep the boutique stocked up. Items can be dropped off during business hours. Due to limited space, the BANANAS Boutique occasionally reaches storage capacity, so call ahead before heading over.
Davis Street This organization assists families in need by addressing issues facing low-income families and the homeless. In addition to gently used clothing, the organization also accepts household items, backpacks and school supplies in the fall as well as new toys for its holiday program. Donation hours are Mon.-Tues. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. COVID-19 Update: Only donations of in-kind donations of unexpired non-perishable canned food are being accepted.
3081 Teagarden Street San Leandro, CA Online: Davisstreet.org
Loved Twice is a nonprofit organization that supports new mothers by providing them with baby clothing. They accept baby clothing sizes 0-12 months only and can also take small blankets and board books. Loved Twice has several Bay Area drop-off locations for your convenience. Visit their website to see if there’s a location near you and make a donation today!
Salvation Army The Salvation Army Family Store and Donation Center in Alameda accepts used toy donations, books and children's clothing, Mon.-Sat. 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Donated items are sold in the Family Store and the proceeds are used to fund the Salvation Army's Adult Rehabilitation Centers.
Goodwill Goodwill in Oakland accepts donations of household items, women's clothing, men's clothing and children's items including books, baby gear (must meet current safety standards), sports equipment, games and toys. Drop-off hours are Mon.-Sat. 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Sun. 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Donated items are sold in Goodwill stores and the proceeds are used to fund programs that help disadvantaged individuals learn competitive job skills and find employment.
Goodwill Goodwill in Palo Alto accepts donations of household items, women’s clothing, men’s clothing and children’s items including books, baby gear (must meet current safety standards), sports equipment, games, and toys. Drop-off hours are Mon.-Sun. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Donated items are sold in Goodwill stores and the proceeds are used to fund programs that help disadvantaged individuals learn competitive job skills and find employment.
4085 El Camino Way Palo Alto, CA Online: goodwill.org
PARCA PARCA helps people with development disabilities and their families at all stages of their lives, from children’s services to independent residential programs to respite care. Through a partnership with Saver’s Stores, PARCA turns used clothing and household item donations into funds that support their programs. Requested items include toys, games, puzzles, stuffed animals, bicycles and sports equipment, as well as clothes and household items. Donors can schedule a donation pick up over the phone and online, or drop off donations at Saver’s Thrift Store in Redwood City or Milpitas, during store hours.
800 Airport Blvd., Suite 320 Burlingame, CA Online: parca.org
This organization supports families escaping intimate partner abuse. Their needs include diapers, new clothing, umbrellas, strollers and more. They run seasonal school supply drives. You can view their wish list here and drop off donations at their office. COVID-19 Update: CORA is currently not accepting donations of goods. Check their website for updates.
LifeMoves LifeMoves provides interim shelter and services for families. Linens, towels and blankets are among the family shelters' greatest need. Household supplies such as towels are also needed for incoming residents. View shelter wish lists here and consider making a donation today.
184 South 11th Street San Jose CA Online: lifemoves.org
Salvation Army We moved! The Salvation Army Family Store in San Jose is now located on West Taylor Street. It accepts used toy donations such as books, bikes, games, stuffed animals and children's clothing, Mon.-Sat. 9 a.m. to 8p.m. and Sundays 10 a.m.-6p.m. Donated items are sold in the Family Store and the proceeds are used to fund the Salvation Army's Adult Rehabilitation Centers.
Santa Maria Urban Ministry was founded in 1983 to provide emergency food to impoverished families in downtown San Jose. Santa Maria has provided a food pantry continuously for 38 years and also collects donations of clothing and goods for families in need. In addition to clothing and care items, there is a need for school and craft supplies. Learn more about their wish lists and make a donation.
Salvation Army The Salvation Army does more than just ring bells and accept change! Their Family Store and Donation Trailer in San Rafael accepts donations Tues.-Sat. 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. Donated items are sold in the Family Store and the proceeds are used to fund the Salvation Army's Adult Rehabilitation Centers.
Goodwill Drop off your used toy donations, household items, women's clothing, men's clothing and children's items including books, baby gear (must meet current safety standards), sports equipment, games and toys at Goodwill's Drop Off Center, located inside the Mill Valley Safeway on Camino Alto. Drop off hours are Mon.-Sun., 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Donated items are sold in Goodwill stores and the proceeds are used to fund programs that help disadvantaged individuals learn competitive job skills and find employment.
1 Camino Alto Mill Valley, CA Online: goodwill.org
Last weekend, I opened my entryway closet to find a doll stroller wresting the hula hoop, a jump rope strangling the tennis racquets and a jumble of scooters knocking the vacuum over directly into my shin.
And that was my seasonal cue to purge. Out went the neglected badminton racquets, neon green plastic baseball bat and outgrown balance bike. And in swept the bliss I find in freeing up space.
My default is to shed toys, clothes and art projects the moment they become irrelevant. I eagerly donate, toss or pass them along to a neighbor or cousin to make room for the next hobby my kids adopt. And, frankly, every single thing I get rid of, is one less item I need to manage.
It’s exhausting to constantly pick up pipe cleaners and toothpicks before someone’s barefoot gets stabbed. I detest tripping over dolls, slipping on marbles, and peeling Elmer’s glue off the windowsill from a drying popsicle stick creation. It’s frustrating to wage war against Rubik’s cubes monopolizing the end table, Scotch tape clinging to the coffee table, and the collection of apparently important twigs that have made their home on our kitchen table.
Yet I wonder whether, in wishing away the physical inconveniences of apartment living with four kids underfoot, I am speeding too eagerly toward the tidiness—but also loneliness—that may mark the next stage of my life journey. I fear that I will miss the clutter of childhood when my children are grown. In that case, I wouldn’t trade our happy chaos for the world.
Now I’m grappling with whether it’s worth holding on to items my kids have physically or developmentally outgrown but may find joy in rediscovering as parents themselves. But signing up to store something for several decades is a big deal when you live in a two-bedroom Manhattan apartment. With space at such a premium, what I choose to keep must be worth the square footage it occupies, either for its sentimentality or practicality.
I awoke last night to use the restroom and glanced around the living room, frosted by the glow of city lights. We had tidied up before bedtime, so the scene lacked the tell-tale signs of children. My daughter’s cardboard sword from a wrapping paper tube had been tucked away in the dress-up cabinet. Sequined backpacks were nestled into their cubbies out of sight. Stuffed animals were squished into their basket under the bunkbed. Looking around in the darkness, you wouldn’t know this was home to our family of six.
I groggily flashed forward to what my apartment might look and feel like 20 years from now. Peaceful, organized, clutter-free—yet perhaps eerily so. In a moment of boredom or loneliness, will I look back and recall our stuff-filled rooms with nostalgia?
As I struggle to balance out my love of decluttering with a desire to keep what’s worth holding on to, I learn from the examples set by my parents and in-laws.
My mom kept many timeless toys from childhood that I loved seeing her unveil for my kids. Indestructible DUPLO bricks in a big blue bucket. Playmobil. Battleship. My American Girl doll Samantha. Chinese Checkers. Barbies from her own childhood. A matching game. Wooden shapes. Travel games that kept our little minds and bodies occupied on countless plane rides to see my grandparents. This makes me want to be able to pull a similar treasure trove out of a closet to share with my future grandkids.
However, I do realize that whatever cherished playthings I decide merit a few square feet of storage space may not ultimately hold the same special status for the next generation. Let’s just say my kids didn’t shed a tear when they accidentally decapitated Grandma’s vintage Barbie. They were more focused on squeezing as many Beanie Boos as possible into Barbie’s speedboat. And while the Playmobil kids with their click-on backpacks and stackable bunk beds provided a few moments of fun, that certainly hasn’t rivaled the endless hours my girls have spent playing make-believe with their Hatchimals or setting up a doll house full of Calico Critters.
As for my in-laws, what brought my kids delight during visits with them was the simplest household odds and ends—a plastic Santa, vases filled with fake flowers, clip-on earrings, a window screen, Kermit the frog, an old cosmetic case, and musty pillows that transformed an empty basement area into their playroom.
They didn’t require shelves of toys to make those trips meaningful. My son just needed a coloring book to spend pleasant hours working his way through while hanging out on the couch with Grandpa. My daughters simply needed Grandma to whip out her recipe card and ancient cookware so they could make a polka-dotted cake together. Their joy continued as they raided Grandpa’s ice cream stash in the freezer and devoured their sticky sweets on the front patio.
I hope to become of mix of these grandparent examples. I want to keep some treasures so I can show my descendants a bit of what childhood was like for their parents and me. But I don’t need a basement or attic packed with playthings. Photos, stories and a bookshelf stocked with my favorite puzzles, board games and art supplies will suffice.
In fact, what I most look forward to sharing with the next generation is the joy I have found in daily life. Creativity through writing, dancing and cooking; learning through museums, reading and conversations and experiencing beauty through nature, music and relationships.
These sources of joy require little to no storage space. Plus, sharing these pleasures with others sounds like the perfect way to usher in, rather than dread, this next stage of life.
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Kristin Van de Water is a former journalist and teacher who relies on humor, faith, and her mom crew to get her through the day. Raising four kids in a two-bedroom NYC apartment, Kristin is always on the lookout for life hacks to save time, space, money, and her sanity.
These amazing baby nappers use smart technology to help babies sleep so tired parents can rest too. By using motion, sound and light, these smart bassinets mimic a mother’s calming womb or a parent’s comforting arms to create the ideal environment for newborn’s sleep. Prices vary. A lot. Find the right one for your budget below.
Created by pediatrician and child development expert Dr. Harvey Karp, the SNOO is a responsive bassinet that combines gentle rocking, white noise and safe swaddling for a womb-like environment. Smart technology gives the bassinet the ability to automatically respond to baby’s cries with increased motion and sound. The bassinet comes with a mattress, three organic cotton swaddles that keep newborns in a safe sleeping position, an organic cotton sheet, and a water-resistant cover. The mobile app allows caregivers to view sleep patterns, customize settings, and receive helpful tips. While buying it carries a hefty price tag, you can also rent this sleeper for $129 per month.
With five unique motions—car ride, wave, kangaroo, tree swing, and rock-a-bye—that mimic the natural movements of parents and other caregivers, this bassinet is designed to help newborns fall asleep fast and stay asleep. There are also five speed options and four white-noise choices that can all be controlled with the Bluetooth-enabled 4moms app. The firm, flat sleep surface comes with a water-resistant mattress and sheet.
The 3-in-1 design makes this combination bedside sleeper, portable bassinet and changing pad a real deal. Keep baby close by and adjust to the right height for your bedside, or roll it into any other room and lock the casters into place. Soothing melodies and vibrations lull baby to sleep. When it’s time for a diaper change, flip the quilted mattress over to the waterproof changing-pad side. The fabrics are machine-washable. This sleeper accommodates babies up to 20 pounds, or until they push up on hands and knees, and the changing pad is for little ones up to 35 pounds.
This bassinet has a 360-degree swivel and lowering bedside wall that make it easier for new moms to tend to their newborns. The soothing center includes four sounds, two levels of vibration, a nightlight and floorlight, and a timer. It comes with a newborn insert that provides a snug sleeping surface that mimics the womb. The fabric is machine-washable and the sleeper includes a waterproof pad and fitted sheet. The bed itself can be removed from the stand, so baby can nap wherever you are.
The built-in microphone hears baby’s cries and automatically adjusts the bassinet’s setting to lull baby back to sleep. The Sense2Snooze includes a head-to-toe soothing motion with three different speeds, two-speed vibration, and a variety of noise options. You can even save your newborn’s favorite combination of settings for quick calming action. There is a dimmable light and a reversible canopy for optimal light options. A storage space keeps all the essentials close at hand.
The gentle swaying motion of this sleeper can be activated by parent or baby to send your little one off to dreamland. An overhead mobile rocks along with the bassinet, and light features include a projector that can be removed to use as a tabletop soother. Calming vibrations, songs and sounds all help create the right sleep environment. The removable sheet is machine-washable and the pad can be wiped clean.
Combining a bassinet, crib and baby monitor all in one, the Cradlewise adjusts as baby grows. The noiseless bouncing mechanism can respond to baby's wake-up cues before they cry and does not disturb sleeping parents. The built-in monitor has video, audio and a night-vision camera that can be monitored from home or remotely. Once your newborn grows out of the higher bassinet level, the mattress can be dropped to crib level for use by a toddler. In addition to a customizable app, the sleeper can be operated with hand gestures.
