How to Organize Games and Puzzles: Tips and Strategies
Are you tired of rummaging through a messy game closet or puzzle box, only to find that your favorite game or puzzle is missing? Do you struggle to keep track of which games and puzzles are available and which ones need to be stored away? Organizing your games and puzzles can be a daunting task, but with the right strategies and techniques, you can keep your collection tidy and easily accessible. In this article, we’ll provide you with tips and strategies on how to organize games and puzzles, so you can spend more time enjoying them and less time searching for them.
Categorize and Group Similar Items
One of the most effective ways to organize games and puzzles is to categorize and group similar items together. This can include grouping games by type, such as board games, card games, or video games. You can also group puzzles by type, such as jigsaw puzzles, crossword puzzles, or logic puzzles.
Create a Category System
To create a category system for your games and puzzles, you can use the following steps:
- Identify Categories: Think about the different types of games and puzzles you have and group them into categories that make sense to you. For example, you might have categories for:
- Board Games: Games that require physical movement and interaction, such as Monopoly, Scrabble, or Risk.
- Card Games: Games that are played with a deck of cards, such as Poker, Blackjack, or Solitaire.
- Video Games: Electronic games that are played on a console, computer, or mobile device.
- Puzzles: Games that challenge your cognitive abilities, such as jigsaw puzzles, crosswords, or logic puzzles.
- Sub-Categorize: Within each category, sub-categorize the items further by theme, difficulty level, or playtime. For example, within the board game category, you might have sub-categories for:
- Family Games: Games that are suitable for children and adults to play together, such as Monopoly or Scattergories.
- Strategy Games: Games that require strategic thinking and planning, such as Risk or Chess.
- Party Games: Games that are designed for large groups of people to play together, such as charades or Pictionary.
Use Storage Containers and Bins
Once you’ve categorized and grouped your games and puzzles, you can use storage containers and bins to keep them organized and easy to find.
- Use Labelled Bins: Label each bin or container with the category or sub-category name, so you can easily find the games and puzzles you’re looking for.
- Store Similar Items Together: Store similar items, such as board games or card games, together in the same bin or container.
- Keep Frequently Played Games Accessible: Keep frequently played games or puzzles in a separate bin or container, so they’re easy to access and play.
Create a Game Library Checklist
To keep track of which games and puzzles you have and which ones need to be stored away, you can create a game library checklist.
- Create a Spreadsheet: Create a spreadsheet with columns for game/puzzle title, category, and availability.
- Update the Spreadsheet: Update the spreadsheet each time you add or remove a game or puzzle from your collection.
- Print Out the Checklist: Print out the checklist and keep it next to your game collection, so you can easily reference it when you’re looking for a specific game or puzzle.
Tips for Storing and Protecting Games and Puzzles
When storing and protecting games and puzzles, there are a few tips you can follow to keep them in good condition and extend their lifespan.
- Handle with Care: Handle games and puzzles with care, as rough handling can cause damage or scratches.
- Use Protective Cases: Use protective cases or sleeves to protect games and puzzles from scratches and damage.
- Store Games and Puzzles Upright: Store games and puzzles upright, rather than flat, to prevent creasing or warping.
- Keep Away from Direct Sunlight: Keep games and puzzles away from direct sunlight, as UV rays can cause fading or discoloration.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about organizing games and puzzles, along with answers:
Q: How do I decide which games and puzzles to keep and which to donate or sell?
A: To decide which games and puzzles to keep and which to donate or sell, ask yourself: "Do I play or enjoy this game/puzzle regularly?" If the answer is no, it may be time to consider donating or selling it.
Q: Can I use a game storage system from IKEA or a similar retailer?
A: Yes, you can use a game storage system from IKEA or a similar retailer. These systems are designed specifically for storing games and puzzles, and they can be customized to fit your specific needs and collection.
Q: How do I organize my games and puzzles when I’m moving to a new home?
A: When moving to a new home, organize your games and puzzles by categorizing and grouping them together, and storing them in labeled bins or containers. This will make it easier to unpack and reorganize your collection in your new home.
Q: Can I use a digital app or tool to track my game collection?
A: Yes, you can use a digital app or tool to track your game collection. There are many apps and tools available that allow you to catalog and track your games and puzzles, and some even offer features like inventory management and tracking.
Q: How do I decide which puzzles to do first?
A: To decide which puzzles to do first, start by sorting them by difficulty level, and then choose the one that interests you the most or the one that you’re most confident in completing.
Q: Can I use a game table or cabinet with storage?
A: Yes, you can use a game table or cabinet with storage to keep your games and puzzles organized and easily accessible. These tables and cabinets often have built-in storage compartments and shelves, making it easy to store and retrieve your games and puzzles.
Q: How do I keep my games and puzzles dust-free and clean?
A: To keep your games and puzzles dust-free and clean, dust them regularly with a soft cloth, and use a gentle cleaning solution if necessary. You can also use a disinfectant spray to clean high-touch areas and surfaces.
Q: Can I use a shelving unit with adjustable shelves?
A: Yes, you can use a shelving unit with adjustable shelves to store your games and puzzles. This allows you to customize the shelving configuration to fit your specific needs and collection, and to easily adjust the shelves as your collection grows or changes.
Conclusion
Organizing your games and puzzles can seem like a daunting task, but with the right strategies and techniques, it can be a breeze. By categorizing and grouping similar items together, using storage containers and bins, creating a game library checklist, and following a few simple tips for storing and protecting your games and puzzles, you can keep your collection tidy and easily accessible. Whether you’re a gamer, a puzzle enthusiast, or just someone who loves to have fun, organizing your games and puzzles can help you enjoy your hobby to the fullest.