Easy Steps To Declutter & Organize Your Messy Garage

pic of garage

Using your garage to park your vehicle is nothing more than a fantasy for some. How did this happen? If your messy garage has been a dumping ground for years follow these simple tips and easy, manageable steps to transform your cluttered space into a functional and organized area. 

Whether you’re looking to create a workshop, storage space, or simply make room for your vehicle, these steps will help you get there without a lot of heartache.

Understanding the Importance of a Decluttered Garage

A cluttered garage not only looks unappealing but also makes it difficult to find what you need. It can also be a safety hazard, with items piled up haphazardly. A decluttered garage, on the other hand, is a well-organized space that is easy to navigate.

Decluttering your garage may seem like a huge task. Breaking down this job into a few steps is by far the easiest way to tackle a clean out. By following these steps, you can have a well organized and clutter free garage in no time.

Financial

One of the benefits of decluttering your garage is that it can help you save money. When you know what you have, you won’t end up buying duplicate items. You’ll also be able to find what you need more easily, saving you time and effort.

Another benefit of a decluttered garage is that it can increase your home’s value. A cluttered garage can be a turn-off for potential buyers, while a clean and organized garage can make a positive impression.

Mental Health

Decluttering your garage can also be good for your mental health. A cluttered space can be overwhelming and stressful, while an organized space can help you feel more calm and in control.

Decluttering your garage is important for several reasons. It can save you money, increase your home’s value, and improve your mental health. By following easy steps, you can have a clean and organized garage that is both functional and aesthetically pleasing.

Planning the Decluttering Task

Before you start decluttering, it’s important to set a goal and focus on the task at hand. Here are some easy steps to help you plan your decluttering task:

a to do check list with unchecked boxes

Set a Goal

Have a clear vision and set a realistic goal for your garage. Do you want to create more space for your car or create a workspace for your hobbies? Having a clear goal will help you stay focused and motivated throughout the decluttering process.

Make a Plan

Once you have a goal in mind, make a plan for how you will achieve it. If you feel completely overwhelmed breaking down the task into smaller, more manageable steps is the best way for you. For example, you could start by decluttering one wall of the garage or one shelf at a time. My vote is with the folks that empty the entire garage first.

Gather Supplies

Before you start decluttering, make sure you have all the necessary supplies.Having everything you need on hand will help you stay focused and avoid distractions. Trash bags will be the most important. Cardboard boxes, cleaning supplies, and storage containers may also come in handy.

An easy focused way to make progress quickly is to designate 3 heavy duty black contractors bags – one trash bag each for trash, donations and gently used items for sale.

Purging Unnecessary Items

This is a perfect time to  purge unnecessary items. This involves getting rid of items that are no longer useful or needed. Here are some easy steps to help you purge unnecessary items from your garage:

Trash Broken Items

Start by sorting through your garage and identifying items that are broken or damaged beyond repair. These items are no longer useful and should be thrown away.

Donate or Sell Items

If you have items that are still in good condition but are no longer needed, consider donating them to a local charity shop or selling them online. This will help you free up space in your garage and also benefit others who may be in need.

Freecycle.org is a cool online platform where folks donate used items and others find free items. Facebook Marketplace makes selling online easy as do the many Facebook local yard sale groups.

Host a Yard Sale

If you have a lot of items to get rid of, consider hosting a yard sale. This is a great way to get rid of unwanted items and make some extra cash at the same time.

When I do a garage clean out I empty the garage and set up 2 tables by the street – one for free stuff and one for sale items. I tag items as I touch them and put on designated table. I realize this may not work for everyone.

Throw Away Duplicates

If you have multiple items that serve the same purpose, consider keeping only one and getting rid of the rest. This will help you free up space in your garage and also make it easier to find what you need.

Get Rid of Old Paint

If you have old paint cans lying around, check the labels to see if they are still usable. Better yet – open the can and stir paint to check. If the contents are no longer usable, dispose of these items properly. Some household items are considered household hazardous waste and require special care when disposing.

Give Away Items

If you have items that are still in good condition but you no longer need, consider giving them away to friends or family members who may be able to use them.

Categorizing Your Garage Items

When it comes to decluttering and organizing your garage, one of the most important steps is to categorize your items. This will help you identify what you have, what you need, and what you can get rid of. Here are some easy steps to help you categorize your garage items:

Start by gathering all of your items in one place. This may seem overwhelming, but it’s important to see everything you have in order to categorize it effectively.

Sort

Next, create categories for your items. Some common categories may include tools, sports equipment, holiday decor, decorations, bikes, furniture, chemicals, gardening tools, gear, electronics, yard tools, and lawn equipment. You can create as many or as few categories as you need.

Once you have your categories, start sorting your items into them. This may involve some tough decisions about what to keep and what to get rid of, but try to be objective and only keep what you really need or love.

As you sort your items, consider using labels or color-coding to help you identify what goes where. This will make it easier to find things later on.

Once you’ve cleared out the space, it’s time to assess what you have left. Take a look at what you decided to keep and start to group items together based on their function. This will help you determine what type of storage solutions you’ll need.

From there, you can start to create designated areas for different items, such as sports equipment, tools, and gardening supplies. With a little planning and effort, you’ll have a clean and organized garage in no time.

Designate storage space

Finally, make sure to store your items in a way that makes sense for each category. Sports equipment stored near the door for easy access may make sense for your family..

By categorizing your garage items, you’ll be able to create a more organized and functional space. Plus, you’ll be able to find what you need more easily, which will save you time and eliminate frustration in the long run.

Organizing Tools and Equipment

When it comes to organizing your garage, the tools and equipment are likely to be a major part of the clutter. Here are some easy steps to help you organize and store your tools:

Sort your tools

Start by sorting your tools into categories such as power tools, hand tools, and garden tools. This will help you identify what you have and what you need to store.

Invest in a toolbox

A toolbox is a great way to keep your hand tools organized and easily accessible. Look for a toolbox with multiple compartments and a sturdy handle for easy transport.

Pegboard

Pegboard is a great way to store tools on a garage wall over a work bench! By hanging the tools in an organized way, that makes sense to you, the tools are easy and quick to find when needed.

Use boxes

For larger tools such as power tools and gardening equipment, use boxes to keep them organized and protected. Label each box with the contents so you can easily find what you need. Better yet use rugged clear transparent totes.

Store vertically

Take advantage of your garage’s vertical space by installing shelves or pegboards to hang your tools. This will keep them off the floor and make them easier to find.

Keep lawnmowers and other large equipment separate

If you have a lawnmower, a snowblower or other large equipment, store it in a separate area of your garage to keep it from taking up valuable space.

By following these simple steps, you can easily organize your tools and equipment and keep your garage clutter-free.

Creating Effective Storage Solutions

When it comes to decluttering and organizing your garage, creating effective storage solutions is key. Without proper storage, your garage can quickly become cluttered and disorganized, making it difficult to find what you need and causing unnecessary stress.

There are many different storage solutions you can use in your garage, including open shelves, containers, and storage boxes. Here are a few tips to help you create effective storage solutions in your garage.

Use Vertical Storage

Vertical storage is a great way to make use of the space in your garage. Installing shelves or hanging storage units on the walls can help you maximize your storage space and keep your garage organized.

Invest in Shelving

Shelving is a must-have for any garage. Whether you choose to install shelves on the walls or use freestanding shelving units, they can provide you with ample storage space for all your tools, equipment, and other items.

Use Containers and Bins

Plastic storage containers and bins are great for storing smaller items like screws, nails, and other hardware. They can also be used to store seasonal items like holiday decorations or sports equipment.

Maintaining a Clean and Organized Garage

Now that you have decluttered and organized your garage, it’s important to maintain it so that it stays clean and organized. Here are a few tips to keep your garage clutter-free:

Regular Cleaning

Set aside some time every week to clean your garage. Sweep the floor, wipe down the shelves, and dust off any equipment or tools. This will prevent dust and dirt from accumulating, making it easier to keep your garage organized.

Organized Storage

Store items in their designated places. Use clear containers or labels to identify items and their locations. This will make it easier to find what you need and prevent clutter from building up.

Clear out Empty Boxes

If you have any empty boxes lying around, get rid of them. They take up space and can attract pests or insects. Consider recycling or donating them instead.

Keep Cleaning Supplies Handy

Store your cleaning supplies in an easily accessible location away from heat and flames. This will make it easier to clean up any spills or messes as soon as they happen.

Deep Clean Periodically

Every few months, take some time to deep clean your garage. This could include washing the walls, cleaning the floors, and wiping down any equipment or tools. This will help maintain a clean and organized space.

By following these simple steps, you can maintain a clean and organized garage. Keep up with regular cleaning and organization to prevent clutter from building up again.

Safety Measures for Your Garage

When it comes to decluttering and organizing your garage, safety should always be a top priority. Here are some safety measures you should take to ensure a safe and accident-free garage:

Identify Safety Hazards

Before you start organizing your garage, take a moment to identify any safety hazards that may be present. This includes checking for sharp objects, like nails or screws, that may be sticking out of the walls or floor. You should also look for any potential tripping hazards, such as loose cords or cluttered pathways.

Handle Toxic Materials with Care

If you store any toxic materials, like pesticides or chemicals, in your garage, it’s important to handle them with care. Make sure they are stored in a secure location, away from any heat or flames. You should also wear protective gloves and a mask when handling these materials to avoid any potential health risks.

Use the Right Tools

When organizing your garage, it’s important to use the right tools for the job. This includes using a sturdy ladder when reaching for items on high shelves, as well as wearing gloves when handling heavy or sharp objects. Using the right tools can help prevent accidents and injuries.

Taking these safety measures can help ensure a safe and accident-free garage. By identifying safety hazards, handling toxic materials with care, and using the right tools, you can declutter and organize your garage with confidence and peace of mind.

By following the easy steps outlined in this article, you can declutter and organize your garage space in no time.

Quick Summary

Start by setting aside a block of time to focus solely on this task. Then, begin by sorting through all of your items and deciding what to keep, donate, or dispose of.

Next, use storage solutions such as shelves, cabinets, and pegboards to organize the items you’ve decided to keep. Label everything clearly so that you can easily find what you need later on.

Finally, make sure to maintain your organized garage by regularly cleaning and decluttering. This will help you avoid falling back into old habits and keep your garage looking tidy and functional.

With these simple steps, you can transform your cluttered, disorganized garage into a clean, functional space that you’ll be proud to show off to your friends and family.

Who knows! You may even be able to park your vehicle inside!

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Marj Bates is a life long ridiculously organized declutter-er and artist. Less is more are words Marj lives by in everything she does except collecting dogs. “Dogs are like potato chips! Can’t have just one.” says Marj. Marj wonders if growing up with a fanatically clean Jewish mom means her decluttering and organizational skills are in her blood.

For more Declutter Buzz & Freebies check out our safe and private Decluttering community on our Facebook page. We are a safe and private space of like minded folks tackling this all encompassing clutter thing once and for all. No shame allowed! We will have a few laughs too!

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