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Have you thought about decluttering your board game collection? For many of us, board games are more than just cardboard and dice—they’re gateways to adventure, laughter, and connection. But even the most passionate gamer can find their collection reaching critical mass. Shelves overflow, boxes stack precariously, and once‑loved titles gather dust. It might be time for a declutter.
Fear not, fellow gamer! Decluttering doesn’t mean parting with beloved treasures. It’s about creating space for the games you truly cherish and play, making your collection more manageable and enjoyable. This guide walks you through each stage from tough keep‑or‑toss decisions to giving unplayed gems a new home.
Step 1: Before You Begin Decluttering Your Board Game Collection: Set Yourself Up for Decluttering Success
Before diving into a pile of cardboard, preparation is key. Set yourself up for success:
- Dedicated Time: Carve out a few hours—or an entire weekend afternoon—just for this task.
- Empty Space: Clear a large area (table, floor, or even a whole room) to spread everything out.
- Sorting Containers: Have boxes or bins ready for Keep | Maybe | Sell/Trade | Donate.
- Cleaning Supplies: Wipes or a duster let you freshen keepers as you go.
- Open Mind & Honest Assessment: Be ready to evaluate each game’s real value to you.
Step 2: Take Inventory and Sort Your Games with Intention
Pull every game off the shelf. Seeing the full scope helps you spot duplicates, forgotten titles, and space hogs.
- Lay Out Everything: Create visual piles on your cleared surface.
- Start Sorting: Drop each game into one of the four containers: Keep, Maybe, Sell/Trade, or Donate.
- Stay Objective: Focus on play frequency, enjoyment, and condition, not just nostalgia (that comes in Step 3!).
This intentional inventory reduces overwhelm and builds momentum before making deep decisions.
Step 3: Ask the Right Questions to Decide What Stays or Goes
Now comes the crucial reflection phase. For each game, ask:
- When did I last play this?
- Do I actually enjoy it?
- Do I own similar games?
- Is it worth the shelf space?
- Is it complete and in good playable condition?
- Is nostalgia clouding my judgment?
Pro Tip: The Maybe box is your friend. Give unsure games a grace period, like a week or month, replay or reconsider—then decide.
Step 4: Give Games a New Life. Sell, Trade, or Donate
Selling
- Online Marketplaces: eBay, Facebook Marketplace, or board game specific groups.
- Local Game Stores: Some buy used games or accept them on consignment.
- Conventions & Flea Markets: Great for quick sales among enthusiasts.
Trading
- Trade Forums & Apps: Swap titles with gamers worldwide.
- Local Meet‑ups or Clubs: Refresh your collection within the community.
Donating
- Libraries & Schools: Enrich collections or after school programs.
- Charities, Shelters, Hospitals, Senior Centers: Provide entertainment and social interaction.
- Thrift Organizations: Goodwill, Salvation Army, etc.
Always donate only complete, playable games and confirm an organization’s needs beforehand.
Step 5: Organize and Maintain to Prevent Future Clutter
Decluttering is just the beginning—keeping your board game collection manageable over time requires a bit of strategy and regular upkeep. Here’s how to maintain a curated, clutter-free collection that works for your space, your play style, and your future game nights.
Smart Storage Solutions
Proper storage not only makes your space look better, but it also helps you use and enjoy your collection more efficiently.
- Use sturdy shelving units: Invest in bookshelves, cube organizers (like IKEA Kallax), or dedicated game shelving. Make sure they can handle the weight and size of game boxes.
- Go vertical: If you’re tight on space, vertical storage can make a huge difference. Stack games by size or use vertical racks to keep everything visible.
- Keep similar games together:
- By game type (e.g., party games, strategy, cooperative)
- By number of players (great for quick picks on game night)
- By playtime (for when you only have 30 minutes or want an all-nighter)
- Use box organizers and inserts: For inside-the-box organization, inserts can prevent component chaos and make setup and cleanup faster.
- Label shelves or bins if your collection is large. This makes finding what you want—and putting it back—super easy.
Try the following storage ideas from Amazon
- Mesh Zipper Pouches
- Zipper Pouches with an Organizer to Hold Them
- Plastic Stoage Bins
- Clear Plastic Cases for Card Games
- Bookshelve Editions – for those classic games that you will play for a lifetime
The “One In, One Out” Rule
A simple but powerful habit: for every new board game you bring home, choose one existing game to sell, donate, or trade.
- Why it works: It keeps your collection size in check and makes you think more intentionally about what you buy next.
- How to make it easier:
- Keep a small “outgoing” box near your collection so you can toss in games as you lose interest.
- Make it a rule to not buy new games unless you’ve played something from your “unplayed” pile first.
This rule helps prevent the all-too-common problem of collecting games faster than you can play them.
Regular Collection Check-Ups
Just like your wardrobe or pantry, your board game shelf needs a seasonal review.
- Set a reminder (every 6 or 12 months) to go through your games with fresh eyes.
- Ask yourself the same questions from earlier:
- Do I still love this?
- Did I play this in the last year?
- Does it still fit my current gaming group or lifestyle?
- Adjust for life changes: Kids grow up, friends move, interests evolve. Your collection should evolve too.
- Bonus tip: Keep a small notebook, spreadsheet, or use an app (like BG Stats or BoardGameGeek) to track what you play and how often. This makes re-evaluation easier and more objective.
By organizing smartly, setting simple boundaries like “one in, one out,” and checking in regularly, you’ll create a board game collection that’s not only tidy but truly serves your lifestyle and gaming joy.
No more shelf shame, just games you love, ready to play.
Enjoy the Benefits of a Curated, Clutter‑Free Collection
Decluttering isn’t about loss, it’s about rediscovering joy in the games you truly love. With a curated shelf, closet or gameroom you’ll:
- Reduce decision fatigue on game night
- Find and access titles faster
- Free up space for future favorites
So roll up your sleeves, embrace the process, and celebrate the freedom of a clutter‑free game time.
