13+ Clever Ideas for Storing Puzzles at Home

Puzzles are a fun and engaging activity that brings people together and helps exercise the brain. Whether you’re a casual puzzler or an avid enthusiast, managing your puzzle collection can be a challenge. Finding an efficient and stylish way to store them not only preserves the integrity of the pieces but also ensures your home remains tidy. With over 20 years of organizing experience, I’ve compiled a collection of clever storage ideas that will help you keep your puzzles organized, accessible, and well-maintained.

1. Use Zippered Mesh Bags for Puzzle Pieces

One of the simplest ways to store your puzzles is by using zippered mesh bags. These bags are lightweight and provide a breathable environment for puzzle pieces, preventing them from getting too worn out. The mesh material also lets you see the pieces through the bag, so you’ll always know which puzzle is inside. For added convenience, you can store the original puzzle image inside the bag for easy identification. These bags take up little space, and when stacked, they can fit neatly on a shelf or in a drawer.

2. Repurpose Large Plastic Bins with Lids

Plastic bins with lids are a fantastic option for storing large puzzles or multiple smaller puzzles at once. These bins come in various sizes and can be easily stacked on top of each other, maximizing vertical storage. For added protection, use dividers inside the bin to keep each puzzle’s pieces separate. You can also label each bin with the puzzle’s name or a description of its image, making it easier to grab the one you want without digging through several bins.

3. Craft an Adjustable Puzzle Rack

A puzzle rack is a great space-saving solution, especially for those with a larger collection. You can build or buy a simple rack that holds multiple puzzles vertically, much like books on a shelf. This method keeps puzzles visible and organized while making them easy to access. If you’re feeling crafty, you can create a custom wooden rack with adjustable shelves, allowing you to store puzzles of different sizes. A well-constructed rack can double as an attractive display piece in your home.

4. Invest in Puzzle Sorting Trays

Puzzle sorting trays are an excellent solution for keeping puzzle pieces organized as you work through a puzzle. These trays come in various sizes, allowing you to separate the pieces by color, edge pieces, or even by the type of image. The trays are stackable and can be stored in a drawer, making them a neat and compact storage option. When you’re done with a puzzle, you can store the pieces in the trays and save time on re-sorting them next time you want to work on it.

5. Store Puzzles in Under-Bed Storage Bins

If space is limited, consider using under-bed storage bins to store your puzzles. These bins are low-profile, clear plastic containers that slide easily under your bed, offering hidden storage. Clear bins allow you to see the contents, and the lid keeps dust and debris out. For added organization, you can separate the puzzles by size or theme and label each bin. This method is perfect for those who don’t want to dedicate valuable closet or shelf space to puzzles.

6. Use Puzzle Boards with Built-In Storage

Puzzle boards are a fantastic solution for both puzzle assembly and storage. These boards provide a flat surface for assembling your puzzle and often come with built-in storage compartments for the pieces. Some puzzle boards even feature rolling mechanisms, making them easy to store and transport. When not in use, the board can be slid under a couch or placed in a closet, keeping your puzzle area tidy.

7. Create DIY Storage Solutions with Wooden Crates

For a rustic and budget-friendly storage solution, repurpose wooden crates to organize your puzzle collection. These crates can be stacked and easily labeled with the name of each puzzle. Wooden crates are sturdy, and you can find them in various sizes to suit your needs. If you’re feeling creative, you can also personalize the crates with paint or wood stain to match your home decor.

8. Utilize Puzzle Mats for Easy Storage

Puzzle mats are an ideal solution for those who like to leave puzzles unfinished but still need a space-efficient way to store them. These mats provide a large, soft surface to work on and can be rolled up when you’re not using them. The puzzle pieces stay in place when rolled up, so you don’t have to worry about losing any pieces. Some mats come with storage bags, making it easy to take your puzzle on the go.

9. Store Puzzles in Vintage Suitcases

For those looking to add a bit of vintage charm to their puzzle storage, consider using old suitcases. Vintage suitcases offer ample storage space and make for an attractive display piece. You can store puzzles in their original boxes or use smaller bins inside the suitcase to keep the pieces organized. Not only does this method provide a functional storage solution, but it also adds a nostalgic touch to your home.

10. Install Floating Shelves for Easy Access

Floating shelves are an elegant and space-efficient way to store puzzles. These shelves can be installed on any wall, keeping your puzzles visible and accessible. By displaying puzzles in clear storage boxes or frames, you can turn your puzzle collection into a decorative element in your living room, hallway, or playroom. Floating shelves also free up precious closet and drawer space while keeping your puzzles organized and easy to grab.

11. Invest in Puzzle Storage Cabinets

Puzzle storage cabinets are a more permanent solution for those with large collections. These cabinets often feature drawers or compartments specifically designed to hold puzzle pieces. Many cabinets have customizable shelves, allowing you to adjust the size of each section to accommodate different-sized puzzles. If you have an extensive collection, a dedicated storage cabinet can help keep everything organized and in one place.

12. Use Clear Plastic Bags with Labeling

For an ultra-simple and affordable storage solution, consider using clear plastic bags. These bags are available in many sizes and are ideal for storing individual puzzle pieces. Once the pieces are inside, you can label the bag with the puzzle’s name or an image of the completed puzzle. This method works particularly well for smaller puzzles or for keeping extra pieces from getting lost.

13. Store Puzzles in Decorative Baskets

Decorative baskets are not only stylish but also functional when it comes to puzzle storage. You can use large, woven baskets to store multiple puzzles, keeping them neat and organized in one place. Baskets add a rustic or boho touch to any room and can be placed in the corner of a room, under a table, or even as part of your coffee table. For added convenience, you can use dividers or smaller containers inside the baskets to separate different puzzles.

14. Use Magnetic Boards for Display

Magnetic boards are an innovative solution for both puzzle display and storage. Once you’ve completed a puzzle, you can frame it with magnets and hang it on the magnetic board. This allows you to display completed puzzles in a unique and creative way. Magnetic boards are great for showing off your puzzle achievements while keeping your home organized.

15. Implement Custom Puzzle Storage Drawers

If you have a collection of puzzles that need a dedicated space, custom-built storage drawers can be a game-changer. These drawers can be installed under tables, in closets, or even built into walls to keep your puzzle collection out of sight but easily accessible. Custom drawers allow you to fit your puzzles perfectly, whether they are large or small, and you can organize them by size, theme, or complexity.