How to Store Board Games with Expansions Without Losing Your Mind
- by Piece Keepers
- 19 min reading time
Struggling to keep your board games and expansions organized? You're not alone. Managing game pieces, tokens, and boards can feel overwhelming, especially when expansions pile up. Disorganization leads to lost components, damaged pieces, and frustrating setup times. Here's how to fix it:
- Problem: Board games come in inconsistent box sizes, and expansions overflow original packaging, causing clutter and damage.
- Solution: Use modular storage systems like Piece Keepers™, which offer magnetic closures, stackable designs, and customizable trays for easy organization and protection.
- Outcome: Faster setup, better game preservation, and less stress during game nights.
We’ll break down why these issues happen, compare storage methods, and show you how to organize your collection step-by-step.
How to Better Store and Organize Your Games! (so you can buy more...)
Why Board Game Storage Is So Difficult
Storing board games comes with challenges that other hobbies rarely encounter. Unlike books or DVDs, which tend to follow standard sizing, board games arrive in boxes of all shapes and sizes. This variety turns organizing them into a genuine puzzle, even for those who pride themselves on being tidy.
One of the biggest hurdles is the inconsistent box sizes and shapes. Stacking becomes tricky, often requiring you to move several boxes just to grab the one you want. To make matters worse, most game boxes are far from full - on average, they’re only about 35% packed with actual components. Publishers often design these boxes with marketing appeal in mind, prioritizing shelf presence over practical storage. This inefficiency becomes an even bigger problem when expansions come into play, adding more pieces to an already crowded shelf.
Common Problems Gamers Face
Expansions are a double-edged sword for board game enthusiasts. While they enhance gameplay, they also create what feels like endless component overflow. Base game boxes are built to house their original contents, but expansions bring extra cards, tokens, boards, and other pieces that simply don’t fit. This leads to cramped boxes, multiple storage containers, and an increased risk of losing or damaging components.
Lost pieces are another frequent frustration. When components are spread across several boxes or containers, it’s easy for a critical expansion token to go missing. This can lead to delays during gameplay or, worse, incomplete games.
Improper storage also takes a toll on the condition of your games. Bent cards, cracked tokens, warped boards, and messy tiles are all common issues when games aren’t stored carefully. Many games, especially those with expansions, include tiles and components that need to be kept organized for smooth gameplay.
What Poor Organization Costs You
Disorganized storage doesn’t just create clutter - it can also ruin the fun of gaming. If your games are scattered or hard to access, setup takes longer, and frustration builds. This might make you less likely to play altogether. Expansions, which are meant to enhance the experience, often get overlooked because they’re too much trouble to retrieve. Without proper storage, you’re not just losing space - you’re missing out on the full enjoyment these games and expansions can offer. Next, we’ll dive into how to tackle these storage challenges effectively.
Different Storage Methods and How They Work
Gamers rely on a variety of storage methods, each offering a mix of cost-effectiveness, convenience, and capacity to handle expansions. Understanding these options can help you decide on the best approach to keep your collection organized, especially as it grows.
Storage Method Comparison
Storage solutions for games range from using the original boxes to investing in modular systems. Each method has its own strengths and drawbacks, depending on your needs and the size of your collection.
| Storage Method | Pros | Cons | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Original Boxes | No extra cost; familiar look; internal packaging can be useful | Hard to stack; bulky; less durable | Small collections without expansions |
| Craft Storage Boxes | Slim design; stackable; can hold multiple games; easy to access | Requires labeling; lacks the original box aesthetic | Limited storage space |
| Baggies Only | Affordable; modular; prevents losing pieces; can be labeled | Time-consuming to organize; can become messy over time | Budget-conscious gamers |
| Custom Trays/Inserts | Speeds up setup; handles expansions; enhances gameplay experience | Expensive; adds weight; requires assembly | Frequently played games |
| Modular Storage Systems | Stackable; secure; designed for growth; neat and professional look | High upfront cost | Serious collectors with expansions |
When deciding, consider whether to store games upright (saves space but risks wear on components) or stack them horizontally (protects boards but uses more room). Each approach comes with its own trade-offs, so it's worth evaluating based on your priorities.
Challenges with DIY Storage Solutions
DIY storage methods may seem practical at first but often come with their own set of challenges. For instance, relying solely on baggies can lead to a chaotic system that makes setup and teardown unnecessarily tedious. Similarly, using makeshift dividers or containers often fails to scale as your collection grows, leaving your games vulnerable to damage or disorganization.
Reinforcing original boxes with tape is a common fix, but it doesn’t address the larger issue of wasted space or the lack of room for expansions. Custom solutions, like 3D-printed inserts, can work well for individual games but usually lack the flexibility needed for a growing collection.
Expansions add another layer of complexity. DIY inserts rarely adapt well as your library grows, forcing you to juggle multiple storage containers or cram everything into limited space. This can result in longer setup times and a less enjoyable gaming experience overall.
These shortcomings highlight the appeal of modular storage systems. Unlike DIY solutions, professional storage options are designed to grow with your collection, offering better organization, protection, and adaptability for both base games and expansions. They ensure your gaming experience remains smooth and enjoyable, no matter how large your collection becomes.
How Piece Keepers™ Solve Storage Problems
If you've ever struggled with the chaos of DIY game storage, you're not alone. Gamers everywhere are turning to modular, magnetic systems to keep their board game collections organized. Piece Keepers™ tackle the most common storage headaches with a combination of clever design and practical features.
What Makes Piece Keepers™ Stand Out
One of the biggest frustrations with traditional storage options is accidental spills. Piece Keepers™ solve this problem with magnetic lids that stay firmly in place. Unlike containers with friction-fit lids or flimsy clasps, these magnetic closures keep everything secure - even when boxes are moved, stacked, or stored upright. Whether you're reorganizing shelves or taking games to a friend's house, you won’t have to worry about pieces scattering everywhere.
Another standout feature is their uniform design. Piece Keepers™ create neat, stackable towers that make the most of your shelf space. This is especially helpful in many U.S. homes, where gaming areas are often limited to a single bookshelf or closet. Say goodbye to awkwardly shaped boxes and hello to streamlined storage.
The modular design is another win for gamers. Whether you’re storing cards, miniatures, or tokens, you can customize your setup with interchangeable trays and labeling systems. These features make it easy to see what’s inside at a glance, cutting down on the time spent searching for components. For games with multiple expansions, this system simplifies setup and cleanup, saving you time and frustration.
To top it off, Piece Keepers™ are available in three bundles tailored to different collection sizes.
Available Products and Pricing
Piece Keepers™ offer three main bundles, ensuring there’s an option for every gamer and budget:
- Squire's Satchel ($49.97): Ideal for smaller collections, this bundle includes 8 Single Piece Keepers™, 4 Double Piece Keepers™, and 2 Unity Vault Lids. It’s perfect for organizing 3–4 games and their expansions.
- Ranger's Repository ($94.97): A mid-tier option for growing collections, this bundle doubles the capacity with 16 Single Piece Keepers™, 8 Double Piece Keepers™, and 4 Unity Vault Lids. It’s designed to handle 6–8 games, with room to grow.
- Knight's Cache ($176.97): Built for serious collectors, this bundle includes 32 Single Piece Keepers™, 16 Double Piece Keepers™, and 8 Unity Vault Lids. It’s capable of organizing 14–16 games and their expansions.
Single Piece Keepers™ are great for smaller items like cards and tokens, while Double Piece Keepers™ are designed for bulkier components like dice and miniatures. The Unity Vault Lids add an extra layer of security for your most delicate or valuable pieces. Each bundle is designed to seamlessly fit into your gaming setup.
How Gamers Benefit from Piece Keepers™
Piece Keepers™ aren’t just about keeping things tidy - they make a real difference in a gamer’s day-to-day experience.
With standardized, stackable containers, you can make the most of your shelf space. Many users find that the uniform dimensions eliminate wasted gaps and awkward arrangements, allowing them to store more games in the same space.
The sleek, modern design also looks great in shared living areas. Unlike makeshift storage solutions that can appear cluttered, Piece Keepers™ offer a clean, polished look that blends well with contemporary decor.
Customizable inserts provide excellent protection for your game components. Miniatures stay secure, cards avoid damage, and tokens no longer mix together. This not only keeps your games in great condition but can also help maintain their resale value.
Finally, the organizational system speeds up both setup and teardown. For complex games like Root with multiple expansions, designated spots for every component ensure you’ll never lose or mix up pieces. Plus, the magnetic lids make it easy to transport your games without disrupting your careful organization.
Piece Keepers™ deliver a thoughtful and efficient way to manage your board game collection, making game nights and storage a breeze.
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How to Organize Your Board Game Collection Step by Step
Getting your board game collection in order doesn’t have to be complicated. With a clear plan, you can turn chaos into a well-organized system. Start by emptying out your storage space completely to see everything you own. This will give you a fresh start and make the organization process much simpler.
Sort and Group Your Game Components
Once you’ve cleared your storage area, gather all your games in one place. If they’re scattered across different rooms, bring them together. Take some time to check each game’s condition - remove any duplicates, incomplete sets, or damaged items that can’t be repaired. After you’ve sorted everything, you’ll be ready to set up your Piece Keepers™ system.
Set Up Your Piece Keepers™ System
Piece Keepers™ are designed to make game organization a breeze. Use Single Piece Keepers™ for smaller items like cards and tokens, while Double Piece Keepers™ are perfect for larger components. Be careful not to overfill them, and double-check that the magnetic closures are secure.
When arranging your containers, keep related components together. For games with expansions, store the base game and its expansions in separate, clearly labeled containers. The modular, stackable design of Piece Keepers™ not only saves shelf space but also ensures your most-played games are easy to grab when you need them.
Keep Your Games Organized Over Time
Once you’ve got everything in order, maintaining your system is simple. After each game night, return all pieces to their designated containers. Spend about 15 minutes each month checking your collection and updating your setup if needed. Keeping a basic inventory of what’s in each container can save time when you’re setting up for your next game.
Save Space and Keep Games in Good Condition
Finding the perfect way to store and protect your board games can be a game-changer, especially when space is limited. Many U.S. homes struggle with storage, making it essential to plan smartly when managing multiple games and their expansions.
How to Save Storage Space
One simple trick to save shelf space? Swap out those bulky original boxes for slim storage cases. The cardboard packaging that games come in is designed for store displays, not for efficient home storage. Pair these slimmer cases with Piece Keepers™ for a system that's both compact and easy to access.
Another great tip is to store your games vertically, like books on a shelf. This method not only saves space but also makes it easier to grab the game you want without disrupting the whole collection. Board game enthusiast Shifrah Combiths shared how she transformed her storage by filing games upright with large rubber bands, making them much easier to handle.
Vertical storage works especially well with Piece Keepers™, which stack securely and maintain their shape. Organize your shelves by placing your most-played games at eye level, while seasonal or less-frequented games can go higher or lower. Closets often make ideal storage spots - they're typically cooler and drier, helping to keep your collection dust-free.
If you're working with limited space, think vertically. Most American homes have ceilings around 8–9 feet high, so take advantage of that height by installing sturdy shelves. Piece Keepers™ are particularly handy here, as they distribute weight more evenly than traditional game boxes.
Once you've optimized your storage setup, the next step is making sure your games stay in great condition.
Protect Your Game Components
Your games' worst enemies? Temperature and humidity. Basements and attics might seem like logical storage spots, but they often experience extreme temperature swings and high humidity, which can warp cards, damage wooden pieces, and even tarnish metal components.
The sweet spot for storing board games is a room that stays between 60–70°F with humidity levels around 30–50%. Most living areas in American homes naturally meet these conditions. A bedroom closet, spare room, or even under-stair storage is usually better than a basement or garage.
Piece Keepers™ can help protect your games further with their secure magnetic closures, which keep out dust and moisture. The clear design also makes it easy to spot any issues during your regular organization checks.
For games you don’t play often, consider long-term storage strategies. Keep these games in a cool, dry place and check on them every few months. While waterproof containers can add extra protection, they’re usually unnecessary for games you access regularly.
Avoid common storage mistakes that can damage your collection. Don’t leave games in direct sunlight, near heating vents, or in areas with fluctuating temperatures. Also, avoid overpacking storage containers - components need a bit of breathing room to prevent crushing or warping.
With an organized system that includes Piece Keepers™, your games will stay in better condition than they would in their original packaging. By keeping individual components separated and protected, you'll reduce wear and tear caused by pieces rubbing together during storage or transport.
Conclusion: Build a Better Gaming Setup
Organizing your board game collection doesn't have to be a hassle. With the right storage solution, you can turn chaotic game nights into seamless, enjoyable experiences where setting up and cleaning up are the easiest tasks on your list. That’s where Piece Keepers™ comes in - a storage system designed with board game enthusiasts in mind.
Piece Keepers™ tackle the most common storage headaches: misplaced pieces, long setup times, and damaged components from poor organization. Thanks to their magnetic, stackable design, you’ll spend less time searching for missing tokens and more time actually playing. As Jason Hartley, Founder of Piece Keepers™, aptly says:
"setup and cleanup shouldn't be the hardest part of game night".
This modular system adapts to your growing collection. Whether you’re starting with the Squire's Satchel at $49.97 for a few games or expanding to the Knight's Cache at $176.97 for larger collections, Piece Keepers™ has you covered. Not only does it keep your games in top condition - better than the original boxes, where components often get damaged - but it also offers clear visibility with its transparent design. Plus, the secure magnetic closures protect against dust and moisture, preserving your collection for years to come.
FAQs
How do Piece Keepers™ help keep game pieces safe and organized during storage and travel?
Piece Keepers™ use magnetic connections to snap containers together securely, preventing your game pieces from spilling out during storage or while on the move. Thanks to their modular, stackable design, you can easily organize components from various games and expansions, keeping everything tidy, easy to access, and ready for your next game night.
What makes modular storage systems like Piece Keepers™ better than DIY storage solutions for board games?
Modular storage systems like Piece Keepers™ are crafted to simplify the chaos of organizing board games and their expansions. Thanks to their stackable and magnetic design, they securely hold game components, cut down on clutter, and help protect your games from damage over time. Unlike homemade storage hacks that can be hit-or-miss and wear out quickly, Piece Keepers™ are designed to endure and grow with your collection.
Their modular design means you can expand storage as your game collection grows, swap components between games with ease, and speed up both game setup and cleanup. On top of being practical, they bring a polished, stylish look to your tabletop area. Forget about mismatched boxes and containers - this is a storage solution that’s as functional as it is good-looking!
Which Piece Keepers™ bundle is right for my board game collection?
Choosing the right Piece Keepers™ bundle comes down to the size of your board game collection and how many components you need to organize. For smaller collections, the Squire's Satchel is a solid choice, offering 8 modular organizers to get you started. If your collection is a bit larger, the Ranger's Repository provides more storage at a discounted price. For those with an extensive collection or games packed with tiny pieces, the Knight's Cache delivers with 32 organizers, giving you plenty of room to work with.
All bundles are magnetic, stackable, and modular, making it simple to keep your games neat and within reach. Think about the number of components you need to organize, and pick the bundle that suits your collection best!
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