Garages often hold more than just our vehicles; For many the area is a catch-all for just about everything. Unfortunately garages are rarely given as much organizational thought as their indoor counterparts. Before you know it, the space can become unruly.
National Clean Out Your Garage Day, the Saturday after Labor Day, is a great time to bring some order to your garage. Here are a few tips for garage organization:
Tool Wall – Tools are easier to find if they have a permanent home. Create a tool wall and mark the outline of each tool, so you’ll know where it goes when it’s time to put it back.
Storage Bins – A perfect place to store items is in bins. If you aren’t careful, the bins can easily turn from organized to a place to hide stuff. The secret is to label everything!
Slat Wall – Retail stores often use these walls to keep things off the floor but within reach. Different hooks and shelves fit into the horizontal slats, making for a customized storage center with minimal effort. The right hook can hold anything from skis to toys to lawn chairs.
Commercial Cabinetry – You don’t need built-in storage to stay organized. Cabinets, drawers and shelves from your local home goods store can help you clear clutter without the extra cost. Look for storage that stands on legs to avoid potential water issues.
Custom Cabinetry – Built-in cabinetry is a budget buster, but it’s worth it if you have the funds. The wall-to-wall and floor-to-ceiling cabinetry in this garage make it easy to keep everything tidy. It’s the most expensive but most beautiful way to maintain garage organization.
Paint Brush Rack – Magnetic knife holders sold at kitchen supply stores are perfect for storing paint brushes. Be sure to hang the brush bristle end down for proper drying and to minimize the amount of dust that collects on the bristles.
Bucket-Hose Storage – A galvanized bucket makes an inexpensive and practical caddy for your garden hose and sprinkler. Drill three holes in a triangle pattern in the bottom of the bucket and attach it to your wall, using the appropriate fastener.
Riding Mower and Recreational Vehicle Storage – Sometimes there just isn’t enough floor space in your garage for vehicles, riding mower and recreational vehicles. Take advantage of the unused space above your vehicles with the Deluxe Loft-It Storage Lift System. With a 4 x 8 foot, heavy-duty motorized platform, you can hoist up to 1,200 pounds as high as 6 feet.
Heavy-Duty Overhead Lift – The drawback to most ceiling storage systems is that you have to carry items up a ladder and lift them overhead to put them into storage—a major problem when it comes to large or heavy items. An easier way is to use a system that lowers to the floor and raises to the ceiling, like this HeavyLift from RacorPro. It’s great for outdoor furniture, third-row car seats and large storage bins.
If you’ve outgrown your garage and would like a new home with more room, contact us! Garage organization is much easier in a bigger home anyway.
