If you’ve ever stepped on a rogue wooden block or spent 10 minutes searching for that one missing puzzle piece, you’re not alone. Montessori homes are calm, child-led spaces… but they still need good storage. Enter: IKEA Trofast - the unsung hero of toy organisation.

With the right setup (and a little help from labels and stickers), Trofast can be transformed into a Montessori-friendly system that encourages independence, tidiness, and yes - a little less mess.

Here are our favourite Trofast storage ideas for Montessori homes, tried and tested in real family spaces.

Why IKEA Trofast Works So Well for Montessori Homes

Why IKEA Trofast Works So Well for Montessori Homes

Montessori principles focus on:

• Independence

• Accessibility

• Order

• Child-led learning

Trofast ticks all those boxes:

• Low, open storage children can reach

• Clear visual organisation

• Flexible bins you can rotate with activities

The key is making it clear and consistent - which is where labels and stickers come in.

 

1. Label Each Bin Clearly (Pictures > Words)

For younger children, visual labels are far more effective than written ones. Stickers showing cars, animals, bricks, or art supplies help children:

• Know where things belong

• Tidy up independently

• Build confidence and routine

Using Trofast stickers turns storage into part of the learning process, not just something parents manage.

👉 Tip: Place stickers on the front centre of each bin so they’re easy to see at a child’s eye level.

Shop: Toddle & Play IKEA Trofast Stickers for extra colour 

2. Rotate Toys, Not Storage

A Montessori favourite: toy rotation.
Instead of overfilling bins, keep only a few activities available and swap them every couple of weeks.

Trofast bins make this easy:

• One bin = one activity

• Stickers help children recognise activities even when rotated

• Fewer choices = deeper play

You can even keep spare bins stored away, ready to swap in when needed.

3. Choose the Right Trofast Bin Sizes (This Matters!)

Not all Trofast bins are the same size — and choosing the wrong sticker size can be frustrating.

Before ordering stickers, always check:

• Bin width

• Bin height

• Whether you’re using shallow or deep bins

We’ve created a simple IKEA Trofast Size Guide to make this easy.

👉 Read: IKEA Trofast Size Guide - link to Trofast sticker size guide

This ensures your stickers fit perfectly and look neat - something Montessori spaces are known for.

4. Group Activities by Skill, Not Toy Type

Instead of organising by “toys”, try organising by skills or activities, such as:

• Fine motor

• Creative play

• Construction

• Role play

For example:

• One bin for threading, lacing, or peg games

• One bin for bricks or magnetic tiles

• One bin for drawing or crafting

Clear Trofast stickers help children understand the purpose of each bin, not just what’s inside.

5. Keep It Calm (Neutral Colours, Simple Designs)

Montessori spaces don’t need to be boring - but they do benefit from calm, uncluttered visuals.

When choosing Trofast stickers:

• Stick to simple designs

• Avoid overcrowding bins

• Keep layouts consistent

This helps children focus on play rather than distraction, while still keeping things fun.

Toddle & Play stickers are designed to be playful but not overwhelming, making them ideal for Montessori-inspired homes.

6. Make Tidying Up Part of the Routine

When children can clearly see where items belong, tidying becomes:

• Less frustrating

• Less parent-led

• More empowering

A quick “everything back in its picture” routine works wonders — especially at the end of the day.

Need help applying your stickers neatly?

👉 Read: How to Apply Toddle & Play Stickers - click here

Final Thoughts: Simple Storage, Big Impact

IKEA Trofast is more than just toy storage - with the right setup, it becomes a tool for independence, confidence, and calm play.

By:

• Choosing the right bin sizes

• Using clear Trofast stickers

• Rotating toys intentionally

…you create a Montessori-friendly space that works for both children and parents.

Create your Montessori Play Space today using Toddle & Play - Shop Now to transform your IKEA storage