6 Tips & Tricks That Really Work

Garages tend to become dumps for just about everything. Because they are big open spaces, they’re easy targets for that suitcase that won’t fit in the closet, the rollerblades your daughter doesn’t want to throw away yet, and the sewing machine you need to give back to your neighbour and anything else that doesn’t have a set place.

Follow these 6 tips & tricks to clean your way to a neat and organized garage.

Tips & Tricks 1: Use as much vertical and ceiling space as possible – This rule is particularly important if you’re planning to park your car here. Make sure that you’ll have room for your car without running into or onto anything.

Tips & Tricks 2: Before reorganizing, try taking everything out of your garage – Looking at the space you have as a blank canvas can give you a better idea of what you’re working with.

Tips & Tricks 3: Decide what to keep, what to donate, and what to throw away – Clearing out clutter is incredibly satisfying, and odds are you won’t really miss that fifth spare tennis racket. When in doubt, donate or toss it. Recycle as much as possible and be sure to dispose of paint and other hazardous waste safely.

Tips & Tricks 4: Group like items together so they’re easy to find – A neat and tidy shoe and coat rack encourages children to place their own clothes in the right place and makes it easy when searching for that much-loved pair of pink Velcro sneakers. Storage on the ceiling and walls saves room for larger items, and things that are used daily.

Tips & Tricks 5: Decide which area of the garage is going to be used for what purpose – Think carefully about what you want your garage to be used for, and the best possible way that this space can be divided up.

Tips & Tricks 6: Label absolutely everything – Taking time to label each drawer and shelf can make a world of difference. Tired of drawers and bins full of hodgepodge of nails, screws, and bolts. Take the time to organize each individual piece by type and label accordingly. Tedious? Yes. Worth it? Yes.

Reference: Excerpts from a Vanessa Bruner post, Houzz Editorial Staff, on houzz.com