A cluttered garage can quickly become a source of frustration rather than a functional space. It can easily turn into scrap storage as it is usually filled with things that we don’t know where to put. You toss items somewhere and forget they even exist somewhere around you.
Whether you want to create extra room or take advantage of vertical space, here’s a simple guide of garage decluttering to help you maximize your garage space.
1. Empty your Garage
Start garage decluttering by removing everything from the garage. This might seem like a daunting task, but it’s essential to get a clear view of what you’re working with. But keep in mind that while you take them out of your garage and put like items together, your job becomes much easier in the next step.
Clean the Space
Once the garage is empty, sweep and clean the floors. Wipe down walls and surfaces to remove dust and dirt. A clean garage will make it easier to visualize your new layout, and it is really inspiring.
Give a Fresh Look to your Garage Before Decluttering
It is not an essential step, but why not? Use this opportunity and renew your garage look. When everything is out and clear, it is the best time to epoxy your floor, which is really trendy these days. Or you can paint your garage walls to give a fresh look to your bare garage. Do not forget to caulk and seal every gap and slit.
2. Plan your Space Layout
Ask yourself, “How you will use your garage?” Do you need space for your car, worktable, or you are going to workout in your garage? Consider your needs to plan your garage layout.
While you are planning your layout, consider creating separate areas for different items or activities. For example, keep gardening tools in one corner and sports equipment in another. It makes it easier to find what you need in a specific area.
3. Sort items and Prioritize
Group Items
Before placing everything back again, layout everything to set up your workstation. Organize your items by categories, like book categories, holiday decorations, electronics items, etc. Put each category in a different bin or box. I have recently purchased Home depot 27-gallon storage bins; they are really game changers, good quality with perfect price. Take a look at all your staff and ask yourself, Are you going to use it one day soon? If you haven’t used something in a year, it might be time to give it away. Create separate piles for items to donate, sell, or throw away. You can run a small yard sale for items you don’t need anymore or sell them on E-bay or Facebook marketplace; like everyone does these days. If you are not sure about some items, whether to keep or give them, put them in the “not sure box” to decide later, and let the project go smoothly.
Placed Storage Bin
Consider what items you need to access frequently and which can be stored away. This will help you decide how to allocate space effectively. Keep and store seasonal items like holiday items or gardening tools in order, bring forward the coming season’s items, and store back items for the season’s ending.
4. Organize Smartly
Label Everything
Labeling all bins, shelves, and containers. This simple step helps everyone in the household to find items easily in the future.
Use Vertical Space
- Install shelf systems to keep everything in order and on top of each other to save space. Based on your needs, you can use cabinets along the walls.
- Use a pegboard for organizing your tools and small items. They’re customizable and allow you to keep things visible and accessible.
- If you really lack the space, the overhead storage might be the best solution for you. Use ceiling-mounted racks or shelves for items you don’t need to access frequently, like seasonal decorations or camping gear.
- Dedicate a wall for your extra-large items, such as bikes and ladders; use hooks or wall hangers to keep them out of the way but easy to reach and retrieve.
Invest in Storage Solutions
Consider investing in quality storage solutions like clear bins, stackable containers, and sturdy shelving units. Good storage not only helps with organization but also saves you time to find items and protects them from potential damage.
5. Maintain Your Organized Space
The storage room is not in front of your eyes and is basically separate from your living space, it could get decluttered easily. Usually, you notice the mess in the garage when it’s too late, and you need to spend a whole day for your garage decluttering! For this reason, we recommend taking a look at your garage organization periodically to ensure it’s still working for you. Tidy up as needed and make adjustments to keep the space functional. And prevent total mess and junk piles in your garage.
Involve the Family
Encourage everyone in the household to maintain an organized system. Teach them where things belong and how to keep the space tidy.
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