Do you cringe every time you walk into your garage? Are you spending far too much time searching for the things you’ve stored there?
Maybe it’s time to spend some quality time in there. Here are some tips to organize your garage.
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Pick your storage spaces
You have a wide range of garage storage options. You can use pegboards on the walls, install cabinets, and add shelves. You can also utilize overhead storage racks—a great place to stash seasonal items, like holiday decorations.
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Organize by use
Store your sports gear in one area, gardening tools in another. Group everything by a category so you know which garage zone to search for a specific item.
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Down in front
Items that are most frequently used should be stored toward the front of the garage, nearest the door, for easy access.
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Use it or lose it
You have three choices for everything in your garage: store it, donate it, or throw it away. Set up bins in your driveway for anything worth donating to a charitable organization. This could include church thrift shops, senior centers, women’s shelters, and animal shelters. Many groups will offer free pick-up, too.
Create a separate stash of disposable items. If you have anything bulky or hazardous, contact your municipality to find out about disposal.
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Plan to succeed
Don’t put off this important task. Schedule a weekend—at least to get started. Recruit family members, maybe with the incentive of a reward at the end of the day.
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Don’t stop there
After you’ve invested time garage organization, make it a habit to keep it that way. Use your storage spaces as they’re intended. Replace items where they belong. Remember, clutter breeds clutter. Don’t allow it to infest your home!
