This Picture Frame Trick Could Declutter Your Game Cabinet (But Is It Practical?)

Does this sound familiar? Your kids go to look for their favorite board game, only to find it hidden in the back of the closet. Not only does this make it difficult to locate games when you need them, but it also takes up coveted storage space. This is especially true if you don't have many closets in your home. Sure, you can stuff board games under beds or in dressers, but this doesn't make it any easier to find them when you need them. TikToker @chanandmari has a genius solution to make your home more organized: add some colorful decorations to your kid's room while also creating storage for games in plain sight. You just need a 16 inch x 20 inch frame and voila! Use your board games as artwork, hanging them on the wall when not in use. 

This hack is ideal for kids' rooms and game rooms alike, especially when you're unsure how to decorate. Not only will you have your board games on display, but you'll prevent them from becoming damaged during use. Since most board games are only made from flimsy cardboard, it's easy for them to rip and tear (especially with little ones), but keeping them inside a frame is an excellent way of protecting them while offering affordable storage. But is this hack practical? Absolutely! As your child grows up, simply remove the games from their frames and replace them with posters or pictures that match their room's decor. 

If you don't have any 16 x 20 inch frames, you can purchase them on Amazon. A four-pack sells for $60. However, this can be pricey, especially if you have multiple games to store. Instead, look at thrift stores for gently used frames. When choosing the right frames for your art, always measure your board games first, and look for frames that match your home decor. Since these games are for little ones, always use frames with plastic picture framing glass — not actual glass — and monitor your children when using these games. Plexiglass is more durable than glass (and resistant to shattering), but it's not unbreakable. Also, always help children when taking these games off the walls. 

When it comes to storing game pieces, hanging them in a baggie under the frame may not work with all games. Amazon sells mesh bags with zippers for just under $10. This set comes with 24 bags in assorted sizes and colors, so you can color code each game, working to keep all its pieces organized. Instead of hanging these zippered bags on the wall, consider storing them in a desk drawer or toy box and using the color-coding system to keep track of them. From there, you can secure your game pieces. This is especially useful for games with bulky playing pieces which may not fit behind a frame and is a great trick for decluttering one of your potentially messiest rooms.