Looking at a disorganized garage fills me with dread and hope. I still get nervous around clutter, but I know the solution is simple.
A professional garage organizer breaks the task down into zones for tools, outdoor equipment, and sports equipment. Next, outfit these zones with storage solutions such as shelving, cabinets, and ceiling racks. Then, choose the storage solution best for the task: hooks for hoses, magnetic strips for tools, and workbenches for projects.
If you break it up into smaller bits, you can organize the garage with confidence instead of anxiety. If you’re feeling like you can’t even deal with the idea, you might want to view our article: Can I “Marie Kondo” My Garage? (opens in a new window).
Step 1: Create Garage Zones
A zone is a designated storage area for a class of items. One of the most important aspects of organizing your garage is creating zones for different types of items. This means separating items such as tools, sports equipment, and gardening supplies into different areas of the garage. This will not only make it easier to find what you need, but it will also help to keep the space looking tidy and organized.
The tool zone should include all of your hand and power tools, as well as any related equipment and supplies.
The outdoor equipment zone should include lawnmowers, rakes, hoses, and other items you use for yard work.
The sports equipment zone should include items such as bicycles, sporting goods, and any other equipment related to your favorite hobbies.
Use Vertical Space for Garage Zones
An important aspect of zoning and space planning is to make use of vertical space.
This means using shelves, cabinets, and storage racks that are taller than they are wide, to maximize the amount of space you have available. This will also help to keep items off the floor, making it easier to move around in your garage.
For some excellent ways to use the ceiling for storage, see my articles: 1 Excellent Kayak and Canoe Ceiling Rack, The Best Ladder Storage Ceiling Rack, The Best Ladder Storage Ceiling Rack, and The Best Garage Ceiling Pulley.
Use Wall Space for Garage Zones
Your new mantra is that “anything on the wall is not on the floor.”
Use the wall space for storage you need to reach.
Hang bicycles and sports equipment on hooks or dedicated storage solutions such as pegboards, slat walls, and track storage.
This will not only free up floor space, but will also keep items off the floor, making it easier to move around. The solution you choose depends on how often you access the item, and its size.
To learn how to maximize wall space with a slatwall or track storage system, see my articles A Complete Guide to the RubberMaid FastTrack Storage System, The Best Garage Slatwall Storage System (Gladiator Review), and What Can I Store On a Proslat Wall System? (with Pictures).
Step 2: Choose and Install Storage Solutions
Once you have your zones set up, you’ll need to choose the best storage solutions for each area. There are many options available, including shelving units, cabinets, hanging racks, and overhead storage (ceiling racks).
Shelving units are great for small and lightweight items such as tools and outdoor equipment. See
Cabinets are for storing heavier items and equipment, such as sports gear and car maintenance supplies.
Hanging racks are for items that take up a lot of floor space, such as bicycles or golf clubs.
Overhead storage is for items that you don’t use very often, such as holiday decorations or seasonal clothing.
Cabinets and Shelving
Cabinets and shelving are an excellent way to organize and store items in your garage. They provide a designated space for items and can be labeled for easy identification.
Cabinets can be used to store items that you want to keep out of sight, such as cleaning supplies or holiday decorations. Shelves can be used to store items that you want to keep visible, such as tools or sports equipment.
Bins and Containers
Bins and containers are for storing small items that might otherwise get lost, such as nails, screws, or bolts. Bins and containers can be labeled and stacked, saving space and keeping items tidy. They can also be used for seasonal items, such as holiday decorations, and can be easily stored out of the way when not in use.
Hooks and Hangers
Hooks and hangers store items that would otherwise take up valuable floor space, such as bicycles, ladders, and sports equipment. They can be mounted on the wall, keeping items off the floor, and making it easier to move around. Additionally, hooks and hangers can be used to organize tools and other small items, such as extension cords and garden hoses.
