How to Set Up Clara's Closet Playset for Dress-Up Play

By Manhattan Toy | Published: 2026-10-26

Category: How-to Guides

Learn how to set up Clara's Closet playset to spark imaginative dress-up play for toddlers. Step-by-step guide with tips for easy storage and fun.

Quick Answer

Set up Clara's Closet playset by assembling the wardrobe, organizing the six clothing accessories on the metal hangers, and introducing Clara the deer to your toddler for immediate dress-up play.

Why This Playset Works for Toddlers

Clara's Closet is designed for little hands, with a fabric handle and metal clasp that make it easy for toddlers to open and close the wardrobe independently. The pull-out drawer provides a dedicated storage spot, reducing clutter and teaching organization skills during play.

Common Setup Mistake to Avoid

A frequent error is hanging all six accessories on the rod at once, which can overwhelm a toddler and make it hard to choose. Instead, start with two or three pieces and rotate them to keep the play fresh.

Step-by-Step Setup Guide

Unpack and Inspect: Remove the wardrobe, Clara the deer, all six clothing accessories, and the three metal hangers from the packaging. Check that the metal clasp and drawer slide smoothly. Keep the packaging in case you need to store pieces later.
Assemble the Wardrobe: Place the wardrobe on a flat surface. Open the metal clasp and pull out the drawer. The wardrobe is ready to use—no tools required. Make sure the fabric handle is accessible so your toddler can carry it.
Organize the Accessories: Hang up to three clothing accessories on the metal hangers and place them on the rod. Store the remaining pieces in the pull-out drawer. Rotate accessories weekly to maintain novelty and interest.
Introduce Clara the Deer: Hand Clara to your toddler and show how the accessories fit on her. Let your child experiment with dressing Clara in different combinations. Encourage storytelling about where Clara is going—like a party or a picnic.
Model Clean-Up: After play, show your toddler how to place accessories back in the drawer and close the metal clasp. This builds a tidy-up routine. Use the fabric handle to carry the playset to its storage spot together.

Product Facts

Clara's Closet Playset: Includes 1 wardrobe, 1 soft toy deer, 6 clothing accessories, and 3 metal hangers. The three hangers let you hang multiple outfits, teaching toddlers how to organize and choose their dress-up clothes.
Clara's Closet Playset