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.
Step 3: Create and Organize each Zone
After deciding on the zone and the types of storage solutions, you can get specific about how to store important items. Do you want a workbench for projects? Magnetic strips for tools? If you use the electric extension cord all the time, put it on a hook near the wall outlet. Finally, get a label solution. You think you'll remember what's in that Rubbermaid box, but I promise you, you won't. Label everything to reduce anxiety.
Workbenches are for working on projects or repairs in your garage.
Magnetic strips are for holding small tools and hardware, such as screws or nails.
Hooks and hangers are for hanging items such as hoses, cords, or extension cords.
Label makers are for labeling your storage containers or shelves, so you can easily find what you need.
The Benefits of Workbenches for Garage Organization
Workbenches are a versatile tool for garage organization, providing a designated space for working on projects or repairs. Here are just a few of the benefits of incorporating a workbench into your garage organization plan:
Functionality
- Workbenches serve as a central location for tools and materials, making it easier to complete projects or repairs
- The flat surface of a workbench provides a stable work area for tasks such as sawing, sanding, or painting
Customizability
- Many workbench designs offer adjustable height options, allowing you to customize the work surface to your specific needs
- Workbenches can be fitted with various accessories, such as drawers or shelves, to accommodate your specific storage needs
Durability
- Most workbenches are constructed of sturdy materials, such as wood or metal, ensuring they can withstand heavy use and the wear and tear of a garage environment
By incorporating a workbench into your garage organization plan, you can create a functional and efficient workspace that will aid in your efforts to keep your garage clutter-free and well-organized.
Magnetic Strips: A Convenient Storage Solution
Magnetic strips are a simple and effective solution for storing small tools and hardware in your garage. These strips can be easily mounted on walls or other surfaces and provide a convenient storage option for items such as screws, nails, drill bits, and more.
Advantages of Magnetic Strips
- Keeps small items organized and within reach
- Saves valuable drawer and cabinet space
- Prevents small items from getting lost in a cluttered garage
Hooks and Hangers: An Efficient Storage Solution
Hooks and hangers are a great way to make use of vertical space in your garage and keep items off the ground. These simple storage solutions can be used to hang items such as hoses, cords, extension cords, bicycles, and more.
Advantages of Hooks and Hangers
- Saves valuable floor space in your garage
- Helps keep items off the ground and organized
- Allows for easy access to items when needed
Label Makers: A Time-Saving Tool
Label makers are a convenient tool for labeling your storage containers or shelves in your garage. By clearly labeling your containers and shelves, you can easily find what you need, saving time and reducing frustration.
Advantages of Label Makers
- Makes it easier to quickly find items in your garage
- Helps to keep your storage containers and shelves organized
- Saves time compared to searching through unlabeled containers
By incorporating magnetic strips, hooks and hangers, and label makers into your garage organization plan, you can optimize the space in your garage and create a more efficient and functional storage solution.
