Spring approaches! Organize your garage now so you can tackle outdoor projects once the snow melts.
1. Set realistic goals
By the end of your cleanup, will you be able to park the car in the garage? Do you want to carve out a much-desired workspace? Does everything deserve a marked and labeled spot so you can easily find what you’re looking for? Set a goal so you don’t allow yourself to get sidetracked as you clear the clutter.
2. Plan ahead
Plastic storage containers can be expensive, but they’re also a foolproof way to keep out any critters and to protect against water damage. Determine in advance what you’ll want fully protected, and check the big box ads that week for deals on the air-tight storage containers you’ll need to complete the project.
3. Sort it out
Make piles for the sports, garden tools, seasonal décor, cleaning supplies, and tools. If you haven’t touched an item in years, it’s time to part ways. Box it up and label it for donation or to sell. If you start to feel indecisive, step aside and let the piles sit overnight. Come back fresh in the morning to make the final call.
4. Position it well
Designate areas in the garage according to their use. Save your storage closest to the house for recycling and other items that you access often. Stow the sports equipment in the areas closest to the outside. Create mini workspaces for the projects you tackle inside the garage, keeping most-used tools handy and other like tools together.
5. Get off the ground
Piles and stacks won’t work. Get items off the floor to keep them safe year-round. Use shelving or other wall systems to guarantee stability and accessibility.
6. Label everything
Position clean, easy to read labels consistently on the top and two sides of the storage bins. Buy extra stickers so you can always update the contents of the box by placing a new label over the old.
7. Take pictures
They won’t make the scrapbook, but evidence of your belongings may come in handy if you have to file an insurance claim for lost or damaged goods. If you are organizing, you may as well be cataloging along the way.
