Struggling with messy board games and missing pieces? Organizing your game collection can save time, protect components, and make gameplay smoother. Here’s a quick overview of the best ways to keep your games neat and accessible:

• Declutter: Remove unused or damaged games to free up space.
• Smart Storage: Use shelves, bins, or modular systems based on your space and collection size.
• Sort Components: Group cards, tokens, and dice in labeled bags or organizers.
• Label Everything: Add clear labels to containers, boxes, and shelves for easy identification.
• Store Vertically: Prevent box wear and make games easier to grab.
• Use Wall Space: Install shelves to save floor space and showcase your collection.
• Protect Components: Use sleeves, inserts, and cases to keep pieces safe.
• Prioritize Access: Place frequently played games within easy reach.
• Custom Inserts: Try pre-made or DIY inserts for games with many pieces.
• Maintain Regularly: Tidy up after each session and review your setup periodically.

Quick Tip: A well-organized collection means faster setup, better protection, and more enjoyable gameplay. Ready to dive deeper? Let’s explore each step in detail.

3 Ways to Store Board Games and Keep Components in Place

1. Remove Unused Games

Clearing out games you no longer use can free up space for the ones you love most.

Here’s what to look for when deciding what to keep or remove:

• Games with missing pieces
• Damaged games
• Games that are rarely played
• Games no longer suitable for the players' age
• Duplicate copies

If a game is still in good shape, consider donating, selling, or gifting it. To keep your collection manageable, try a "one in, one out" rule: every time you add a new game, remove one that's older or less used. It's also a good idea to review your collection every 6–12 months.

For games that are damaged or incomplete, save any usable parts and recycle the rest. Before making final decisions, check with your group or family - what you consider unused might be someone else's favorite.

A well-curated collection is not only easier to organize but also more enjoyable to use. This first step lays the groundwork for keeping your games neat and accessible.

2. Pick Good Storage Options

Once you've sorted out the games you no longer need, it's time to organize the rest with smart storage choices. The right storage depends on your space, collection size, and how well it protects your games.

Modular Storage Systems
For dedicated collectors, systems like BoxThrone offer adjustable and expandable shelves. These are designed to maximize space with features like double-notched pillars.

Budget-Friendly Options
If you're looking for a cheaper solution, consider repurposing bookshelves or using plastic bins. Affordable shelves, such as those from IKEA, work well for standard game boxes.

Here’s a quick look at some common storage options:

Storage Type | Best For | Key Features

Modular Systems | Large collections | Adjustable, expandable, protective
Bookshelves | Medium collections | Affordable, easy to find, vertical storage
Storage Bins | Small collections | Portable, stackable, moisture-resistant

Pick the storage solution that matches how often you play and the space you have available.

Tips to Maximize Space
Keep these factors in mind when choosing storage:

• Measure your space and game boxes before buying anything.
• Plan ahead for your collection to grow.
• Make sure frequently used games are easy to grab.
• Opt for vertical storage to avoid damaging game boxes.

Mix and match storage methods to keep your games both accessible and safe.

3. Sort Game Pieces

Once you've set up smart storage options, it's time to organize the individual game pieces. Sorting these components properly makes both setup and gameplay smoother.

Here’s how to organize different types of pieces:

• Cards and Tiles: Use card sleeves or deck boxes to protect your cards. For non-standard sizes, opt for specialized sleeves. Keep related cards together with labeled dividers inside the boxes for easy access.
• Tokens and Markers: Place tokens in clear ziplock bags, grouping similar ones together. Label each bag for quick identification. For games with many token types, small plastic organizers with adjustable compartments can keep everything neat and easy to find.
• Dice and Miniatures: Store dice in dedicated dice bags or small containers to prevent damage. Miniatures are best kept in foam-lined cases or specially designed storage boxes to avoid scratches or breaks.

Here’s a quick reference for storing common components:

Pro Tips for Organizing Game Components

• Use clear containers to quickly identify pieces.
• Group items of similar sizes to save space.
• Keep frequently used pieces easily accessible for faster game setup.

4. Use Clear Labels

Once you've sorted your game pieces, clear labeling is the next step to keep everything organized. Labels make it easier to set up games and find what you need quickly.

Component Labels
Label each container with the game name and a description of its contents. Instead of vague terms like "Tokens", go for specific labels like "Resource Tokens - Wood/Ore/Grain" or "Character Cards - Heroes." These detailed labels save time during setup and reduce the chances of mixing up components. Adding labels to the game boxes themselves also improves visibility and speeds up selection.

Box Edge Labels
If you store your games vertically, add clear labels to the visible edges of the boxes. Include key details such as:

• Game title
• Player count
• Play time
• Age range

Storage System Labels
For larger collections, a location-based labeling system can be a game-changer. Divide your storage space into sections and label them by category. For example, you could have sections like "Quick Games (15-30 min)" or "Heavy Strategy (2+ hours)." This approach keeps things tidy and makes it easier for others to help with cleanup.

Here’s an example of a labeling system based on game categories:

Label Maintenance
Use sturdy labels that can handle wear and tear. A label maker can give your system a polished look and ensure consistency. If labels get damaged or fade, replace them promptly to keep your system running smoothly. Durable labels are especially important for protecting high-end games you’ve invested in, such as those from specialty stores like Brain Games.

5. Store Boxes Vertically

Storing board game boxes vertically, like books on a shelf, helps prevent wear and tear while making them easier to access. This method also reduces the pressure and friction that can damage your game components over time.

Before placing boxes vertically, secure small pieces using plastic bags or rubber bands. For boxes with multiple compartments, double-check that all components stay in place.

Consider using modular shelving units, such as BoxThrone, which provide adjustable shelves and maximize your storage space.

Organize your games thoughtfully: keep larger, heavier boxes on the lower shelves, place your most-played games at eye level, and leave enough space around each box to avoid unnecessary friction.

Regularly check your boxes for any signs of damage. Repair or reinforce them as needed, especially for collector's editions or rare games, to keep them in great condition.

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6. Use Wall Space

Looking for ways to save space and organize your board games? Wall storage is a smart solution. By adding mounted shelves, you can free up floor space, keep your games within reach, and even show off your collection.

When choosing shelves, go for options that are sturdy and adjustable. This way, they can handle different game sizes and weights. A great example is BoxThrone's modular system, which can expand as your collection grows.

Here’s a quick guide to organizing games on your shelves for easy access and safety:

"Wall storage can help maintain the condition of board games by keeping them upright and preventing them from being stacked on top of each other, which can cause damage. This also reduces the risk of pieces getting lost or mixed up."

7. Keep Games Safe

Taking care of your board games ensures they stay in good shape and remain enjoyable to play. Protecting your games goes hand-in-hand with organized storage, helping them last longer and work as intended.

Card protection: Use acid-free, archival-grade sleeves to guard game cards against moisture, dust, and damage from frequent handling. This is especially useful for games with intricate artwork or heavily used cards.

Box protection: Depending on your storage needs, consider these options to safeguard game boxes:

For smaller game components, use clear plastic bags or organizers to keep pieces sorted and make setup or cleanup quicker.

Check your games regularly for wear and tear. Clean them as needed, and repair or replace damaged parts. You can use clear packing tape to reinforce weak spots or rubber bands to secure loose items.

Lastly, store your games in a space that’s free from direct sunlight and controlled for temperature and humidity. This helps prevent long-term damage from environmental factors.

8. Place Popular Games Within Reach

Once your games are organized and protected, make sure the ones you love the most are easy to grab. Keep your go-to games at eye level or in spots that are simple to access. This saves time and keeps everything tidy.

A helpful tip is to organize your collection into zones based on how often you play each game. Here's an example:

Modular storage options, like BoxThrone, can make this even easier with adjustable setups to fit your needs.

You can also use tools like Board Game Geek to track how often you play each game. This helps you figure out which ones deserve the prime spots.

To keep your system running smoothly:

• Regularly check which games you’re playing most
• Avoid overcrowding your shelves
• Adjust placements as your game rotation changes

If you’re organizing for a family or group, think about who’s playing. Put kids' games on lower shelves for easy access and keep more complex strategy games higher up. This way, everyone can find what they’re looking for without any hassle.

9. Try Game-Specific Storage

Custom inserts from companies like The Broken Token and Go7Gaming are designed to fit perfectly and keep everything organized. These are especially useful for complex games with lots of pieces, like Gloomhaven, Scythe, or Terraforming Mars.

Here’s a quick look at the materials often used for game-specific storage inserts:

If you prefer a hands-on approach, DIY options might be a better fit. You can use foam core boards or even try 3D printing your own inserts (check out designs on platforms like Thingiverse). When creating your custom solution, think about how well the components fit, how quickly the game can be set up, and the durability and cost of the materials.

Retailers such as Brain Games also offer pre-made inserts that simplify setup while protecting your game. For card-heavy games, consider adding specialized card holders to keep everything neatly arranged.

10. Keep Up With Organization

Take 5–10 minutes after each gaming session to tidy up your collection. Use the "one-touch rule": put each piece directly into its designated container to avoid unnecessary clutter.

Here’s a simple maintenance schedule to keep your system running smoothly:

This routine helps ensure your collection stays neat and easy to manage.

Keep a small supply kit nearby for quick fixes. Stock it with extra bags, replacement labels, and cleaning supplies. This makes it easy to handle minor issues on the spot.

For games with lots of small pieces (like Carcassonne or Pandemic), clear plastic containers with compartments are a game-changer. These can be lifted out directly, speeding up both setup and cleanup while encouraging everyone to stick to the system.

Make sure your storage method works for all users. Visual guides showing where pieces go can be especially helpful for complex games. When everyone in your family or gaming group understands the system, keeping things organized becomes a shared effort instead of a solo task.

If certain games always end up messy, it’s worth rethinking their storage solution. Sometimes, what seems like a good idea doesn’t hold up in practice. Organization isn’t set in stone - it’s okay to tweak it as your needs change.

Organizing Your Board Game Collection

Taking the time to organize your board game components can enhance your gaming experience and help protect your collection. Whether you opt for vertical storage, custom inserts, or another method, the goal is to make your games easy to access and keep them in good condition.

The key is to create a system that works for you. These approaches simplify setup, reduce the chance of losing pieces, and help prevent damage to your games.

Here’s how a well-organized collection can improve your gaming experience:

Organization isn’t a one-time task - it evolves with your collection. As you add new games, adjust your system to keep everything running smoothly and ensure you spend more time playing and less time searching.

If you're looking to expand your collection, retailers like Brain Games offer a variety of titles that can fit seamlessly into your storage setup.

FAQs

How to organize a board game collection?

Organizing your board game collection doesn't have to be complicated. Here are some strategies to keep everything tidy and easy to access:

Here are some additional tips to streamline your storage:

• Use ziplock bags for small components and custom inserts to keep pieces organized.
• Store games vertically to save space and prevent damage.
• Label everything clearly and use plastic organizers for tokens, cards, and other small items.

"Experts suggest dedicating a specific area for board games, using modular storage solutions, and maintaining the setup regularly to keep it functional and user-friendly."

Avoid common mistakes like stacking boxes too high or storing them sideways - this can damage the contents or cause pieces to get mixed up. Regularly revisiting your setup ensures your collection stays in good shape and remains easy to navigate. Modular storage is especially helpful, offering both protection and easy access to your games.

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