Assess Your Collection

Evaluating your collection is the essential first step in organizing board games. I start by laying out every game I own. This gives me a clear visual of the entire collection. It's amazing how quickly you can accumulate games without realizing it. Next, I check the condition of each box and its contents. Are there missing pieces? Is the box damaged? This helps me decide which games need some TLC or replacement parts.

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I also like to ask myself how often I play each game. Some might've been favorites once but haven't seen the light of day in years. It's important to be honest here – if a game hasn't been played in a long time, it might be time to let it go. This step not only helps in decluttering but also makes room for new games that will actually get played.

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Categorize by Type

With my collection assessed and some games set aside, I now group the remaining games by type. This makes it easier to find what I'm looking for and adds a level of organization that's both practical and visually appealing. I start by separating my games into broad categories: party games, family games, strategy games, and two-player games. If a game fits multiple categories, I decide where it's used most often.

Party games, like "Codenames" and "Taboo," go into one pile because they're great for social gatherings. Family games, such as "Monopoly" and "Catan," form another group, perfect for casual nights in with loved ones. My strategy games, including "Terraforming Mars" and "Scythe," get their own section since they require more time and brainpower. Finally, two-player games like "Jaipur" and "Patchwork" are grouped together for those quieter, intimate sessions.

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Categorizing by type helps me quickly grab the right game for any occasion. It also makes it easier to identify gaps in my collection, so I know what to look for when I'm adding new games. This system keeps everything tidy and accessible, making game nights smooth and stress-free.

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Choose the Right Shelving

Now that my games are sorted by type, I need to think about the right shelving to display and store them. The first step is to measure the space where the shelves will go. It's essential to know the dimensions so I can choose shelves that fit perfectly and maximize storage.

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Sturdy, adjustable shelves are ideal because they allow me to customize the height for different game box sizes. I prefer shelves with a decent depth—around 12 to 15 inches—so the boxes aren't sticking out or getting crammed. Open shelves make it easy to see and access the games, but enclosed shelves can be great if I want to protect them from dust.

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Material matters too. Wooden shelves are durable and can support the weight of heavier games. Metal shelves offer a modern look and are generally easier to assemble. If I'm looking for something budget-friendly, plastic shelves can work, but they might not hold up as well under heavy loads.

Utilize Storage Boxes

I've chosen the right shelving to display my board games, but efficient organization doesn't stop there. To truly maximize space and keep my collection tidy, I turn to storage boxes. These handy containers help manage all the small components that come with board games, like cards, tokens, and dice.

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I prefer using clear, stackable boxes so I can easily see what's inside without opening them. This saves me time when I'm setting up or putting away a game. Dividers within these boxes are a lifesaver, keeping everything in its place and preventing pieces from getting mixed up or lost.

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For games with many expansions or extra parts, I use larger storage boxes to keep everything together. This way, I don't have to hunt through multiple boxes to find what I need. I've found that investing in a few high-quality storage boxes pays off in the long run, as they protect game components from damage and make my collection look neat.

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Using storage boxes has genuinely streamlined my board game organization. It's a simple step that makes a huge difference, ensuring my game nights go smoothly every time.

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Label Everything

Labeling everything is essential for keeping my board games in order. It helps me quickly find the game I'm looking for and keeps the chaos at bay. I use a label maker, but you can also use sticky labels and a marker. Each game box gets a label on the front and side, so I know what's there, no matter how it's stacked.

Labeling isn't just for the boxes, though. I also label the storage boxes where I keep game pieces, cards, dice, and other components. This way, if I need just the cards from a particular game, I can grab them without rummaging through everything. I even label baggies inside the game boxes for small components, making setup and cleanup much faster.

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It saves me time and reduces stress. I no longer have to open multiple boxes to find a single game or piece. Plus, if friends or family want to play, they can easily find what they need without my help. Taking the extra time to label everything upfront has made my game nights smoother and more enjoyable for everyone.

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Maintain Regularly

Keeping my board game collection organized isn't a one-time task; it requires regular maintenance to stay in top shape. Every few weeks, I make it a habit to go through my games and verify everything is in its proper place. Components can get misplaced, boxes can become damaged, and new games can disrupt the order.

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First, I check each game box to verify all pieces are accounted for. It's easy for small components to go missing, so I keep a list of what should be in each box. If something's missing, I search for it right away before it gets lost permanently.

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Next, I inspect the condition of my boxes and storage units. If a box is showing wear and tear, I might reinforce it with some tape or consider getting a replacement. Verifying the integrity of the boxes helps keep everything protected and makes stacking easier.

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Conclusion

In wrapping up, organizing your board game collection is easier than it seems. By evaluating, categorizing, choosing the right shelving, utilizing storage boxes, and labeling everything, you'll have a tidy and accessible collection in no time. Don't forget regular maintenance to keep everything in tip-top shape. Trust me, a well-organized collection not only looks great but also makes game nights more enjoyable. Happy organizing!