10 kids toys that make chic adult decor

Peter Pan would be so proud of you for never growing up.
 By 
Chelsea Frisbie
 on 
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Original image has been replaced. Credit: Mashable

You have your own home. You have a mortgage, a 401(k), and all the other things that make you an adult from what we've been told. 

But no one ever said you had to stop playing with toys. Hell, some toys could even pass as decor. 


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Original image has been replaced. Credit: Mashable

By repurposing old toys or, technically, just being an adult and using them, anything you played with as a kid can become a decoration. Some you can purchase, others can be done during arts and crafts, which we call "DIY" as adults. 

Here are some of our favorite ideas for making your home "inner child" friendly.

1. DIY slide

Admit it, ever since you saw that scene in Princess Diaries 2, you've wanted to slide down your stairs. Your dreams can come true with this tutorial, sans mattress or sleeping bag. 

2. Swing

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Original image has been replaced. Credit: Mashable

Netflix and swing? Not only are you bringing one of the best parts of the playground indoors, but this is a great space-saver. Consider a bench swing instead of an overstuffed lounge chair. 

3. Dinosaur coat hang

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Original image has been replaced. Credit: Mashable

A bit less intrusive than this triceratops that blocked an intersection in the UK, but still pretty cool. You can find plenty of upcycled toys at Found Beauty Studio Art's Etsy page, like this kitschy dino soap dispenser

4. Car mirror

This is a really cool DIY project for anyone with a collection of diecast cars they're not using, or a gift for someone with a garage filled with life-size ones.

5. LEGO desk organizer...

...or key holder

If you can't find an organizer that fits your needs perfectly, build it yourself. If this isn't adult enough for you, here's a tutorial on how to make dildo popsicles using LEGO bricks. 

6. Plastic animal bowl


Noah had an ark and you can have a bowl. This does involve a lot of hot glue, so be careful not to melt any of your animals' faces off. Did you see Toy Story

7. Figurine jewelry holder

Another great idea if you have a lot of those figurines from childhood. A moose does seem to be a smart idea, as the antler's are great hangers. Or use glow in the dark paint to make your own version of these reindeer

8. Dinosaur toy planters

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Original image has been replaced. Credit: Mashable

Taking care of a plant is a sign of succeeding at adulthood. But it doesn't mean you have to tone down the planter. If putting your succulent in a T-Rex isn't cool enough, try wearing the plants as statement jewelry

9. Magnetic letters

Magnetic poetry kits are popular, but gold paint makes explicit fridge messages really shine. 

10. Gumball machine fish tank

This tutorial shows you how to turn an old gumball machine into something safe for your fish friends. You can also buy one already made here. Just please do not try to put quarters inside, only fish food.


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Chelsea Frisbie

Chelsea Frisbie was interning at Mashable as the Lifestyle Section Intern. A SUNY Oswego Alum, she graduated with a degree in Broadcasting and Mass Communication and a minor in Gender Studies, and while there received several awards for her three talk shows and work in local news. Her favorite pastimes include watching Dr. Phil, practicing her Emmy acceptance speech, and subtly sneaking feminism into her daily conversations.

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