Spring cleaning season is upon us! If you’ve been putting off getting your outdoor space organized and functional, we’re here to help! While most people hope to de-clutter inside their home, most tend to leave out the one spot you start and end your day. Before you know it, the walls will be packed high once again with holiday decorations that will only be de-organized as you search for those spring break items and outdoor needs once the weather turns warm again! So while organization is still top of the list, let’s take some time to get your garage back in shape! To help you out, we’ve pulled together some tips from the Houzz.com blog and savvy homeowners. Let’s get to work!
Step One: Clear Everything Out
You may need to improvise during the winter or wait until a warmer weekend, but take every single item out of the garage. Sweep, dust and clean up. Then, take a step back and envision what you want this blank slate to look like. Houzz writer Vanessa Brunner says, “One of our users has a vertical storage setup similar to the previous two garages, but has also incorporated a neat and tidy workshop area towards the back. Working with a clean slate can help you decide which areas are best to designate for certain activities.” Once you determine what you want your garage to look like, you’ll be able to work through these next tasks with a clear goal in mind.
Step Two: Purge
Now is the time to tackle everything you’ve pulled from your garage. Identify garbage, items that can be donated or recycled, items that can be moved to a new part of your home, and items that should have a coveted place in your garage. “Clearing out clutter is incredibly satisfying, and odds are you won’t really miss that fifth spare tennis racket,” writes Brunner. “When in doubt, donate or toss it. Recycle as much as possible, and be sure to dispose of paint and other hazardous waste safely.” A good rule of thumb is if you didn’t’ use it or need in 2017, you probably won’t this year either! Once you’ve sorted through your items, you’ll be ready to start organizing.
Step Three: Find the Right Organizational Tools
Your main goal will be to create a space that’s open, organized, and attractive. To accomplish this, you’ll need to find the right tools for the job. Many Houzz users recommend finding heavy-duty hooks for wall storage, compartments for ceiling storage, and closed cabinets for keeping small items out of sight. The most important part of this step is to make sure absolutely everything has a designated spot in the garage—so you and everyone else knows exactly where items are supposed to go. Says Brunner, “[Sunny Side Up writer Erin was] tired of drawers and bins full of a hodgepodge of nails, screws, and bolts. Erin took the time to organize each individual piece by type and label accordingly. Tedious? Yes. Worth it? Yes.” Looking for more advice on how to tackle your garage organization project? Check out our custom solutions that will get you organized in no time.
If you need a bit more help in envisioning the perfect garage, we encourage you to visit the Greater Cincinnati Remodeling Expo coming up January 26th through the 28th at the Sharonville Convention Center. Click here for more info and to download your FREE tickets to show! We’ll be at booth 623 all weekend and also presenting a seminar on how to, “Transform One of the Largest Areas of Your HOme – Your Garage” Sunday, January 28th at 3:45pm. Hope to see you there! Can’t make it to the show? Schedule a free consultation to learn more about any of our ideal garage solutions.
