One of the most challenging projects to tackle for most households is organizing the garage and purging it of clutter that's accumulated over the years. From old tires to antiques, it's common for boxes to become stacked and for there to be a minimal amount of space in the area. To transform your garage and keep it organized each season, there are a few steps and resources to use for a well-kept space.
- Add a Shoe and Coat Rack
Many people rely on the garage as the main entrance of their home, which can often lead to stacks of shoes and clothing to pile near the door. Add a shoe and coat rack to encourage a bit of organization and make it easy for children to find their belongings when they're off to school.
- Install Heavy Duty Hooks
To free up space on the garage floor, take advantage of all vertical and ceiling space for an easy way of organizing items and making them easier to find. Install heavy duty hooks, which can hold bikes, gardening tools, and woodwork equipment. Keep like items together and designate specific areas for different items.
- Use Overhead Racks
Instead of allowing boxes to pile up on the garage floor, use overhead racks to create more space and get items that are only used periodically out of the way. Holiday decorations and sporting equipment can be placed overhead since they are only used during specific seasons.
- Purchase Plastic Cabinets
Plastic cabinets are durable and can be moved around in the garage for an important storage option that will keep several different items out of sight. From paint buckets to household decor, use cabinets that can hold a variety of items in a charming way, instead of allowing them to be an eyesore. You can use smaller baskets or bins in the cabinets to group like items and make them easy to find when they're needed. Use locks on specific cabinets that contain dangerous tools or chemicals, which should be out of reach for children.
- Create Specific Zones
The garage is often a large space and can be difficult to organize due to the size of the area. With a variety of different items all stored in one place, it can be difficult to find a few screws or a tennis ball. To make the garage functional, create specific zones that each serve a purpose. To work on projects or do woodwork, you can place a bench in a corner or against wall of the garage. An additional area can be designated for sporting equipment, which can store skis or baseball bats. Other areas can include seasonal decor, cleaning supplies, paint or chemicals, and products for pets.
- Toss Out Unused Items
When organizing your garage, make it a point to toss out belongings that have not been used in the last year. This will create more space in the garage and can prevent hoarding items that are no longer needed. Consider holding a yard sale or donating the items.
