When most people move into a new home, they picture their cars in the garage and not much else. Unfortunately, this plan usually falls apart as more and more items that fall into the “I’ll use it one day” category end up thrown on shelves, turning the space into a black hole for misfit possessions. The beautiful garage cabinet systems in magazines never find their way into the average homeowner’s garage.
However, with proper planning and a few simple steps, you can turn your garage into a functional and visually appealing space. Before diving into the task, take some time to develop a plan for organizing different categories of items. Here are some easy steps to help you get started:
–Begin with a clean slate: It’s essential to start organizing your garage by clearing it completely. Remove all items onto your driveway and thoroughly clean the space. Sweep the floors, dust shelves and cabinets, and wipe down windows and doors. This fresh start will give you a clear perspective on what you have and allow you to envision the possibilities. A fresh coat of paint can also work wonders in transforming the aesthetic.
–Sort and categorize: Set up fold-up tables on your driveway to display smaller items. This makes them easier to sort and will save your back from the strain of sitting on your driveway organizing. Use the space below the tables to sort larger items that are in the same category as the items on top of the tables. Take inventory of everything you removed from the garage and sort it into categories. Small shoebox sized containers are great for the small stuff, but get some large 30”x20” stackable bins for categories with larger items. Use separate trash bins for items you plan to keep, donate, sell, or throw away. This process will help you eliminate unnecessary items and make it easier to organize what remains.
–Consider storage solutions: Once you have sorted your items, it’s time to think about storage solutions. Look for options that fit your needs and budget. Consider shelves, cabinets, pegboards, and storage racks. There are plenty of high quality steel storage racks available that will outlive you. Most feature adjustable height shelves to perfectly fit whatever large storage containers you are using. Large ceiling mounted racks are an excellent option for items that are only used once or twice a year like Christmas decorations and camping equipment. Assess the types of items you need to store and the available space, then choose storage solutions accordingly.
–Maximize your space: Garages often have limited space, so it’s crucial to make the most of every inch. Utilize vertical space by installing shelves and cabinets. Explore using the ceiling or walls to hang items like bikes or kayaks. There are several hanger rail systems designed for garages that allow you to swap out different types of hangers to fit your needs. You can also use the space behind doors for hanging storage solutions and the area under shelves for additional storage. Even if you’re not a big do-it-yourselfer, consider a work bench for tool storage and a flat surface to place things while you’re re-organizing or working on something in the garage.
–Label everything: Labeling is a simple yet effective way to locate items quickly. Use labels on shelves, cabinets, and storage containers to identify their contents. Tool chest labels are crucial if you do a lot of your fixing around the house to prevent a lot of wasted time searching for a specific tool. While my clients often opt for more styled labels inside the home, a good label maker is all you need for a garage and it’s contents to be functional. This practice will help you maintain your organization system over time.
–Create zones: Creating distinct zones within your garage will make it easier to find items and keep everything organized. Designate specific areas for gardening supplies, sports equipment, tools, auto supplies, paint and hardware, and other categories based on your needs. When mapping out your new garage layout, take some time to think about where you’re relocating items. Anything frequently used should be close to the door to your house and seldom used items should be put in less accessible locations like the corners of the garage or up in rafter or ceiling mounted racks. This approach streamlines the process of finding what you need and facilitates returning items to their proper places.
–Purge appropriately: There is no place in the home where there are more things you don’t need than the garage. As a rule of thumb, ask yourself “Have I used this in the last year?” Chances are, if the answer is not, you won’t use it again, so donate items of value and throw out the rest. I get a lot of feedback from customers months after a job is done. I NEVER hear “ I wish I had thrown away less stuff.” You only realize the value of having less once those possessions are gone. Out of sight, out of mind.
–Maintain your organization system: The final step is to establish habits that maintain your newly organized garage. Make it a routine to put items back in their designated spots after use. Regularly assess the garage and get rid of items you no longer need. Use the one in, one out rule to keep the garage organized. Every time you buy something to put in the garage, find something of comparable size to get rid of. By making organization a habit, your garage will stay clean and organized in the long run.
Organizing your garage doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By following these straightforward steps, you can transform your garage into a clean and organized space that is both functional and visually pleasing. With a little effort, you can proudly showcase your well-organized garage and enjoy the more functional space.
