Tips for Garage Organization: Storage Tricks
It's easy for a garage to become cluttered or disorganized. It is often the home of half-completed projects, seasonal items and damaged items awaiting repair. But that's not all a garage is for. With the right organization tips, your garage can become an efficient and functional space where you can fit your car and store all your essentials. Here are some tips on how to get started.
Clean it out
The best way to start is by getting everything out of the garage and cleaning the space while it's empty. This means using soap, water and elbow grease to scrub the floors and walls. There is a psychological value to this. After putting in the diligent effort to wash your garage, you will be very mindful of what goes back into the space, making your next process much easier.
Plan out your space
Before you start putting anything back, you need to make a storage plan. Consider the layout, the size of your garage, and what kind of items you will be storing. This will help you avoid overcrowding by giving you a clear idea of the space available for each item. If you are going to get help from a professional organizer for just one part of this process, this would be the best one to choose.
If you would like professional help during this stage, a reputable company like Bayside Home Improvement can provide you with expert advice on the most efficient layout for your garage. They are based in California's Bay Area and do everything from remodeling, flooring, and painting to organizing garages.
Invest in shelving and cabinets
Installing some high-quality shelves and cabinets is a great way to maximize storage space in your garage. Shelves are the best way to go because you'll be able to quickly see and access all your items. However, if you are storing hazardous materials like cleaning products or sharp tools, then cabinets with locks are a safer option.
You could also include overhead storage racks to make use of the space above your head. This is perfect for items that are used less frequently, such as seasonal decorations or camping gear.
Label and categorize
To truly keep your garage organized, you need to label and categorize everything. This will save you time and effort in the long run when trying to find specific items. Use clear storage bins to easily see what's inside and label each one with its category.
It's also helpful to have a designated spot for each category so you'll always know where to find things. For example, have a section for sporting equipment, another for gardening tools, and another for holiday decorations.
Important considerations
If you have a bike you plan to store in your garage, you can install a hook on the ceiling or wall to hang it up and save floor space. Some people prefer using a pulley system to hoist the bike up and out of the way.
You should also create a drop-off zone. This is a temporary sorting location where you can place items that need to be taken inside the house, donated, set aside for repair or returned to their proper spot. Schedule time to focus on this location at least once a week to prevent clutter and mess from accumulating.
Lastly, make sure there's adequate lighting in your garage. Install LED bulbs for bright, energy-efficient lighting. If you have a workbench, consider task lighting or under-cabinet lighting in this location. For added convenience, use motion sensor lights, so you don't have to fumble for a light switch when entering the garage.
Once you start your garage organization process, never stop. Regularly declutter and re-evaluate your storage system to make sure it's still working for you. Visit our Facebook and Instagram pages to learn about more organizing tips and tricks to use.
