Written by guest author: Kevin Connors

Organizing a cluttered garage is at the bottom of everyone’s list of chores that they want to tackle. However, the resulting added functionality of a well organized garage makes the time investment well worth the effort. Accessibility and knowing the location of everything in your garage saves time and alleviates the stress of living with possessions randomly shoved into shelves.

The following guide will help get you on your way to a more enjoyable space.

Begin with a Fresh Start

Before diving into organizing your garage, it’s crucial to start with a clean slate. Clear out everything from your garage and give the space a thorough cleaning. Once you’ve swept the floors, and dusted shelves and cabinets, consider a fresh coat of paint. It can also work wonders in transforming the overall appearance.

Sort and Categorize

Once your garage is empty, use shoebox size containers to sort through all the items and categorize them. Use larger trash cans to gather items you want to keep, donate, sell, or discard. This process helps you declutter by getting rid of things you no longer need or use, making it easier to organize what remains.

Explore Storage Solutions

After sorting your items, it’s time to consider storage options. Start by measuring the garage dimensions and the space in cabinets or shelves that may already be in place. Look for solutions that fit your needs and budget. Shelves, cabinets, pegboards, and tool racks are excellent choices. Assess the types of items you need to store and the space available, and select storage solutions that best fit your space and storage needs.

Make the Most of Available Space

Garages often have limited space, so it’s essential to maximize every inch. Utilize vertical space by installing shelves and cabinets. Consider using the ceiling to hang items such as bicycles or kayaks. Utilize the space behind doors for hanging storage solutions and the area under shelves for additional storage.

Label Everything

Labeling is a key aspect of an organized garage. Use labels on shelves, cabinets, and storage containers to identify their contents. Tool chest labels are particularly helpful to save time looking for a specific tool. This practice simplifies finding what you need and helps maintain the organization system in the long run.

Create Designated Zones

Establishing zones in your garage facilitates easy access and organization. Allocate specific areas for gardening supplies, sports equipment, tools, and other categories of items. Get some large 30”x20” stackable storage bins for storing smaller items in these different categories. This allows for quick retrieval of items and ensures they are returned to their designated zones.

Maintain Your Organization System

The final step is to maintain the organization system you’ve established. This is the first rule of organizing: a home for every item. Develop a habit of putting items back in their designated places after use. Regularly assess your garage to eliminate items you no longer need. By making organization a habit, your garage will remain clean and prevent the overflowing of items that so commonly takes over in a garage.

Organizing your garage doesn’t have to be an overwhelming task. By following these simple steps, you can transform your garage into a clean, organized, and visually appealing space. Having a plan before you start will save time and ultimately result in a practical, functional space that simplifies your life.