Ask Elsa: Summer Solutions for Families

Dear SUMMER,

I completely understand wanting to tuck away the toys at the end of the day. Toys don't really go with all aesthetics...or even most of them, lol.

Here are a few of my favorite tips for organizing outdoor items:

Storage benches are great for containing toys, and they make cleaning up easy for all ages. They are also ideal for storing outdoor cushions, and they double as seating!

Mount hooks on a wall for towels, wet bathing suits, or anything else that needs to dry outside. (Think flippers, goggles, etc.)

Boogie boards / surfboards can be stored horizontally or vertically on a really cool board rack in a garage or other storage space. Store Your Board makes awesome ones that can be freestanding or wall-mounted.

Keep a basket outside for sandals or any other shoes you don't want coming in the house.

I have two of these wood storage benches in my backyard to hold kids' water toys and other items that benefit from being able to air-dry / drain.

These metal bins with lids would also be great for hiding toys or even gardening supplies, and the lid allows them to double as side tables.

I hope that helps — happy summer!

Elsa