Summers are usually filled with vacationing, BBQ’ing and summertime projects like organizing the garage—right? Because who doesn’t have a garage that needs some cleaning out? I have some great tips on how to organize a closet that, believe or not, are also helpful for organizing your garage. Vision is everything!
My answers to your garage decluttering problems will give you the ability to move around your garage in a better way. Plus, this summertime project will give you a purpose to turn that mess into a beautifully orchestrated space. You might even be able to park your car inside. :)
I’ve done the research for you and learned how to help you focus on a getting a clean and organized garage.
Here are my top 5 tips:
1) Clear the way
Basically, and this the hardest part—go through every item, box, container and shelf and decide what you actually use TODAY. If you haven’t used an item in 10 years, it’s time to get it hauled out, thrown away or donated. If you have college-age children and you still have their cleats and shin guards from their elementary years, donate them to a soccer organization in South America where they love to play fútbol! Have a box of lawn-size plastic trash bags ready to be filled and cleared out from your soon-to-be clean garage.
2) Get hooked up
Do you enjoy doing yard work but can’t find the garden edger, the digging tools or the rakes? Go to The Container Store where you can purchase a multitude of several types of hooks to install on your garage walls to hold up those rakes, ladders, shovels and pitch forks. It can be very dangerous if you accidentally step on a 12-tooth rake head and the handle slaps you right in the face. No joke!
3) Add some shelves
Buy shelving units to place all of those paint cans, paint brushes, tarps and odd containers filled with bolts and nails. Use the shelves to properly organize all your home repair accessories and products. And while you’re at it, why not use a 4-tiered shelving unit to hold your outdoor couch cushions and pillows instead of laying them up against the garage wall. Who me? No, I didn’t use to do that. Ha!
4) Contain your stuff
For your more fragile and delicate items like Halloween decorations or Christmas ornaments, buy individually-sized plastic containers from Target or Home Depot. Place the containers within your new shelving units and it will make your garage look even tidier.
5) Haul it off
You can hire this company to take away literally anything out of your garage or home and they’ll even sell it for you. They’re friendly, too! That reminds me I have a brand new futon and frame still in a box that I need to get rid of!
I hope you find these helpful tips as an inspiration to get that disastrous or slightly untidy garage in order. It takes courage and time to tackle a big job like this, but take it in stride and do it a little at a time. Or, be bold and bring your garage to life in one fell swoop!
I encourage you to Just Ask me if you need any assistance. Just remember hooks, containers, shelves and some elbow grease are the keys to success.
A clean garage is a clear mind. :)
