Garage Gremlins? Take Charge of Your Garage with the Right Storage Solutions

I always joke that our work revolves around the two places everyone keeps their “dirty little secrets”:  closets and garages.  Think about it – where do you toss things when company is coming, or stash surprise gifts that need safekeeping until that special day.  We talk a lot about closets on here but the garage is one of the most overused, yet underutilized spaces in a home. A catch-all for everything from tools and sports equipment to holiday decorations and seasonal gear, it’s a room that must be all things to all people – and that’s before you even park a car in there!

Properly organizing and maximizing garage storage can transform this often-cluttered area into a highly functional and efficient space. Whether you use your garage for storage, a mancave, a workspace, or a combination, or just to park  your car, here are some essential tips for making the most of your garage storage.

Assess and Declutter

Before diving into organizing, take some time to assess what’s currently in your garage. Remove everything from the space and categorize items into keep, donate, and discard piles. This initial decluttering will help you understand what you have and make it easier to plan your storage solutions.

Focus on items that you use regularly versus those that are rarely accessed. Items that are no longer useful or that you haven’t used in the past year should be considered for donation or disposal. By decluttering, you’ll create more space and make it easier to organize what remains.

Maximize Vertical Space

Vertical space is often underutilized in garages. Make the most of your garage’s height by installing shelves, cabinets, overhead racks, or wall-mounted storage solutions.

• Shelving Units: Sturdy, adjustable shelving units can hold a variety of items, from bins and boxes to tools and gardening supplies. Place frequently used items on lower shelves for easy access, while less frequently used items can be stored higher up.
• Wall-Mounted Racks and Hooks: Use wall-mounted racks or hooks to hang tools, bikes, and other equipment. This keeps items off the floor and makes it easier to access what you need without rummaging through piles of clutter.
• Overhead Storage: Consider installing overhead storage racks or ceiling-mounted shelves for bulky items like holiday decorations or seasonal gear. This takes advantage of space that often goes unused and keeps these items accessible but out of the way.

Incorporate Custom Cabinets

Custom cabinets can provide tailored storage solutions that fit your specific needs. Custom cabinets can be designed to accommodate various items, such as:

• Tool Storage: Create cabinets with built-in drawers and compartments to keep tools organized and easily accessible. Include pegboards or magnetic strips on the doors for smaller tools and accessories.
• Sports Equipment: Design cabinets with adjustable shelves or cubbies for storing sports equipment, such as balls, bats, and helmets. This helps keep everything in its place and prevents damage.
• Seasonal Storage: Custom cabinets can also include features like pull-out shelves or bins for storing seasonal items like winter coats, camping gear, or garden supplies.

Utilize Clear Bins and Labels

We sound like a broken record, I know – but clear plastic bins and a good label maker will change your life.  Clear bins allow you to see the contents at a glance, reducing the need to open multiple containers to find what you need.

Label each bin or container with its contents to make it easier to find and return items to their proper place. Labels can be as simple as masking tape and a permanent marker, or you can use a label maker for a more polished look. We’ve shared our favorite on here before.

Create Zones for Different Uses

Divide your garage into zones based on how you use the space. For example, create distinct areas for:

• Tool Storage: Dedicate one section of the garage to tools and equipment, including workbenches and wall storage.
• Sports and Outdoor Gear: Allocate space for sports equipment, gardening tools, and outdoor gear. Use shelves or cabinets with adjustable heights to accommodate different-sized items.
• Seasonal Items: Set up a specific area for seasonal decorations and gear. Use clear bins and high shelving to keep these items organized and easy to access when needed.

Maintain and Update Regularly

As with anything, an organized garage requires ongoing maintenance. Periodically review and reorganize your storage solutions to accommodate new items and changes in how you use the space. Regularly declutter and reassess your storage needs to keep your garage functional and organized.

Making the most of your garage storage starts with decluttering (doesn’t it always?!) and involves a combination sustainable creative storage solutions, from vertical to hanging, hidden and flexible. Don’t know where to start? Let us help you transform your garage into a well-organized, efficient space that meets your storage needs and enhances the functionality of your home. With a little planning and creativity, your garage can become more than just a catch-all—it can fill the bill for everyone’s needs and be an extension of your living space.