organizing sensory bin "stuff"

I have put together a number of sensory bins.  

(I quite like making them - it's a bit of an addiction.)


I need a sensory bin storage solution.


serious disclaimer:  I am not an organizing queen.  I wish I was.  I actually quite dislike organizing things and would much rather some nice people invaded my space and organized all my stuff for me, and then I could just have fun creating and playing.


That said, here is how I sort of organize my sensory bins and their bits and pieces.


My go-to essentials are a big storage bin and the gallon size zip lock baggies. 




I put the to-store-for-next-time sensory bins in the gallon size baggies.  Heavy ones like this one - pirate bin with a base of aquarium gravel need to be double bagged. (Sadly, I speak from experience.)

 

Then they are labelled and go into the storage bin.


I pick up sensory bin bits and pieces when ever I find them (hopefully on sale) at thrift shops, dollar stores, Target, Michaels, Walmart ...  End of season sales are really good - especially bead garlands that go on sale after Christmas.  I usually throw new finds in a rubbermaid bins - I organized them into floral gems, glass pebbles, bead garlands and buttons and other bits and pieces because I was too embarrassed for anyone to see my mess!  So, thank you!


I also keep my eyes open for any scoops, shovels, spoons, tongs, tweezers that will work in bins.  Shiny, natural, brightly colours.  Cheap.  Free - I'm not too proud to beg.


They are neatly (for now) stacked in a cupboard with smaller bins with toob contents (that I want available, not just in a sensory bin bag), table scatter, golf tees and other bits and pieces that need smaller containers.



Bits and pieces waiting for inspiration. 





            

12 comments

  1. What should I do with sand? It's in a sensory bin and I am unsure of how to store it.... It's quite a lot of sand, too! Ideas? I loved your post!

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    Replies
    1. I keep extra sand in big bags and then store them in rubbermaid dishpans. Hope that helps.

      Sandi

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  2. Double bagging sounds like it is a must. Thanks for sharing! I've pinned this onto Sensory Learning again! :)
    Alison
    Rockin' and Lovin' Learnin'

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    Replies
    1. Thanks for pinning. And sadly, I have learned that double bagging is the way to go!

      Sandi

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  3. Hey...when did you do this?? I am going to have to peek in your cupboards while you are away! :) Looks great. :)

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    1. I sorted this out a couple of days before I left. But, the cupboards are still their usual mayhem. I only sorted 4 rubbermaid containers!

      Sandi

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  4. Such a smart way to organize all of those fun sensory bins!! I completely agree with your comment about end of the year/season sales. :)

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    Replies
    1. Oh, and I am sooooo not an organizational queen either!

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    2. Looking out for sensory bin materials can become a bit of an obsession. Can't wait to get to the Turkish markets! My poor husband!

      Sandi

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  5. Ziplocks and storage containers! The caregiver/preschool teacher's best friends! I must confess that I love organizing though! Great tips, Sandi!

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  6. Oh, Jackie. Don't you want a nice break from winter on Vancouver Island in the spring. I can happily supply the most satisfying organizing for you!

    Sandi

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  7. What great ideas for sensory bins! You are so very creative! I know our children will enjoy them immensely. Many thanks!

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