Let’s talk about maintaining a kids’ bedroom. I know how challenging it can be, especially when each child has their own unique personality and preferences. Kids’ bedrooms can easily become cluttered with toys, clothes and books, but keeping this space clean and organized doesn’t have to be overwhelming.

In last week’s home maintenance blog, I mentioned how kids can get easily overwhelmed by clutter and this is especially true for kids with ADHD. In our home, we’ve adapted each of our kids’ bedrooms to suit their needs, and I want to share our approach.

For JJ, clutter is overwhelming—both physically and mentally. His room is kept simple, with just books, building toy and Hot Wheels. Anything more would take up too much space, not just in his room, but also in his mind. We even simplify his wardrobe to keep things manageable.

Isabella, on the other hand, loves playing with her toys, but cleaning them up overwhelms her. That’s why we have a rule that she must clean up before taking out another toy. It helps her feel less burdened when it’s time to tidy up.

Lele is starting to outgrow her toys but still loves her art supplies. Like Isabella, she follows the clean-up rule, although for her it’s less about feeling overwhelmed and more about not wanting to do it. However, she takes pride in making her bed every day—it’s something she does beautifully. We’re also in the process of simplifying her room, especially her wardrobe.

Here are some simple tips we use to help maintain a tidy and fun bedroom for the kids:

1. Make the Bed Every Day

We all make our beds in the morning, either before or after breakfast—it’s your choice. For us, it’s typically after breakfast. Over time, our kids have gotten much better at making their beds, and we’ve noticed that the older they get, the more pride they take in how their beds look. A made bed instantly makes the room feel more organized, even if there are toys on the floor. Encouraging this habit has made a big difference in our morning routine.

2. Pick Up Toys and Trash Daily

Toys are often the biggest source of clutter in a kids’ bedroom. To manage this, we have a rule: toys must be put away before new ones are taken out. We make it fun by turning clean-up into a game, and having a toy basket or bins makes it easier for the kids to quickly tidy up. As for trash, let’s be real—kids rarely notice it! In our home, if I don’t point it out, it usually ends up under the bed. So, we’ve established a daily routine of picking up trash, and even if I have to guide them, it helps keep the room looking tidy.

3. Organize Clothes and Shoes

Clothes are a major source of mess in a kids’ room. My kids are pretty good about putting dirty clothes in the laundry basket, and they’ve gotten better at putting clean clothes away. We’ve also installed hooks in each of their rooms for easy access to sweatshirts—especially helpful during homeschooling when they get cold and need to grab one quickly. It’s a simple system that works for us. We also go through their clothes every four months or so. I used to do it seasonally, but after Isabella’s growth spurt last year, we now adjust more frequently.

4. Set Up a Homework or Reading Corner

Creating a designated space for schoolwork, reading, or quiet play helps keep the bedroom functional and less cluttered. A small desk or reading nook gives the kids a specific place for their activities, which keeps books, papers, and school supplies organized and contained to one area.

5. Weekly Clean

Even with daily tidying, kids’ rooms need regular deep cleaning. We make it a weekly routine to clean under the bed, dust surfaces, and vacuum. The kids are responsible for dusting and vacuuming their own rooms, and I’ll occasionally jump in when it’s time for a deeper clean—especially when I’m switching out their clothes for the next season.

6. Keep Things Simple and Functional

When the kids first moved in, we went all out—friends donated a lot of things for them, and we didn’t hold back. But over time, we’ve learned the value of simplicity. Now, we keep the decor functional and minimal. Focusing on items like toy organizers, bookshelves, and multi-use furniture helps keep the room tidy without sacrificing play. Rotating toys also keeps things fresh and prevents overwhelm.

Final Thoughts

Maintaining a clean and organized kids’ bedroom fosters a sense of calm and responsibility in your children. By building daily habits and establishing a simple weekly routine, keeping their space tidy becomes a manageable and enjoyable task. The goal is to create a bedroom that’s not only clean but also reflects your kids’ personalities and gives them a sense of pride.

Love,