UK families are collectively hoarding more than half a billion toys that are no longer used, new research has revealed. The study, commissioned by the charity Barnardo's, found that the average household owns 21 unused toys, with the total value of these items estimated at £4.7 billion.
Millions of toys gathering dust
The survey of 2,000 parents with children under 16 found that 41% of families have at least one room in their home dedicated to storing unused toys. The most common reasons for keeping them include sentimental value (34%), the belief that younger siblings might use them (28%), and the intention to sell or donate (22%). However, only 12% of parents actually follow through with selling or donating within six months.
Barnardo's chief executive Lynn Perry said: "It's clear that many families are holding on to toys long after they've been outgrown. While some may have good intentions, the reality is that millions of toys are gathering dust when they could be bringing joy to other children."
Environmental and financial impact
The research also highlights the environmental cost of unused toys. The charity estimates that if all unused toys were recycled or donated, it could save the equivalent of 1.5 million tonnes of carbon emissions. Additionally, the average family could recoup up to £350 by selling unwanted toys, according to the study.
Perry added: "We're encouraging families to have a clear-out and donate good-quality toys to our shops. It's a win-win: you declutter your home, help the environment, and raise funds for vulnerable children."
Regional variations
The study found that families in London are the worst offenders, with an average of 28 unused toys per household, followed by those in the North West (24) and Scotland (23). In contrast, families in Wales have the fewest, with an average of 16 unused toys.
Barnardo's is now calling for a national "toy amnesty" to encourage families to donate unused toys. The charity operates over 700 shops across the UK and accepts toys in good condition.
