Storage Tips for Decluttering Your Garage

If you’ve ever watched “The Great British Bake Off” and felt the urge to tidy up your kitchen afterwards, you’ll understand the appeal of a good decluttering session. But while it’s easy to keep the kitchen tidy, the garage often becomes a dumping ground for everything we don’t know what to do with.
 
Transforming your garage into a functional space is entirely possible — with a bit of planning and some strategic storage solutions, you can reclaim your garage and maybe even find room for your car! We’ve put together some practical tips to help you declutter your garage effectively.
 

Start With a Clear-Out

Before you can get everything organised, you need to tackle the clearing out bit. It might seem overwhelming at first, but trust us, it’s important. Set aside a weekend and take it on in stages. Start by emptying the entire garage. And yes, it sounds a bit extreme, but seeing everything you’ve got all at once will make it easier to decide what to keep and ditch.
 

Sort and Categorise

 
As you empty your garage, sort items into categories: keep, donate, sell, and bin. Be honest with yourself — if you haven’t used something in the past year, it’s time to let it go. Common categories include seasonal items, tools, sports equipment, and gardening supplies.
 
Use this opportunity to assess what’s genuinely necessary. That old lawnmower you’ve been meaning to fix for the last five years? It’s probably time to part with it. Sentimental items can be the hardest to let go of, but think about taking photos to preserve the memories without holding onto the physical objects.
 

Ask for Help

 
Decluttering can be a massive task, so don’t be afraid to ask for help. Get the family involved, or invite friends over to lend a hand. You could even turn it into a fun event with some music and snacks. Having others help out can make the whole process quicker and a lot more enjoyable.
 

Create a Storage Plan

With your items sorted, it’s time to plan how to store them. The aim is to make your garage functional and easy to access. Consider how best to use your space, both vertically and horizontally.
 

Use Vertical Space

 
Garages often have a lot of unused vertical space. Installing shelves or pegboards can help you keep items off the floor and within easy reach. Hooks and racks are great for storing bikes, ladders, and even garden tools.
Consider ceiling-mounted storage for rarely used items. This is a brilliant way to make the most of your space without cluttering up your everyday work areas. Overhead storage racks can hold seasonal decorations, camping gear, or other bulky items that you only need a few times a year.
 

Invest in Clear Bins

 
Clear plastic bins are perfect for garage storage. They protect your items from dust and moisture while allowing you to see what’s inside without opening them. Label each bin clearly to make finding things easier.
 
Group similar items together in each bin. For example, keep all your gardening tools and supplies in one bin, sports equipment in another, and so on. This way, you’ll know exactly where to look when you need something specific.

Zone Your Garage

Creating zones in your garage helps maintain order. Allocate specific areas for different categories, such as gardening tools, sports equipment, and holiday decorations. This way, everything has its place, and it’s easier to find what you need.

Install a Workbench

 
If you use your garage as a workspace, a sturdy workbench is a must. It provides a dedicated area for DIY projects and keeps your tools organised. Pegboards above the workbench are perfect for hanging frequently used tools you always want but can never seem to find.
 
Add some storage drawers or cabinets beneath the workbench for additional storage. These can hold smaller tools, screws, nails, and other supplies, keeping your workspace clear and uncluttered.
 

Create a Mudroom Area

 
If your garage is the main entrance to your home, look into setting up a mudroom area near the door. Install hooks for coats and bags, a bench with storage underneath for shoes, and a mat to catch dirt and mud. This helps keep your home cleaner and makes it easier to find everyday items.

Keep Frequently Used Items Accessible

Items you use regularly should be easily accessible. Store frequently used tools, bikes, and lawnmowers in places where you can grab them quickly. Seasonal items or items you rarely use can be stored higher up or in less accessible areas.

Quick-Access Storage Solutions

 
Install hooks or a small shelf near the entrance for keys, dog leads, and other items you need to grab quickly. This can save you time and reduce stress when you’re heading out the door.

Declutter Regularly

Decluttering is not a one-time task. Make it a habit to go through your garage at least twice a year. This helps you stay on top of any accumulating clutter and makes sure your storage system remains effective.
 

Adopt the One-In, One-Out Rule

 
To prevent your garage from becoming cluttered again, adopt the one-in, one-out rule. For every new item you bring in, remove an old one. This simple strategy keeps your storage space manageable.

Choose Louth Self Storage for Overflow

For those items that just don’t fit, we offer the perfect solution for your valuables at Louth Self Storage. With a range of unit sizes and excellent security, you can trust that your belongings are safe and accessible.
 
Reclaim your garage today and enjoy a more organised, functional space! Get in touch today to find out how we can help you achieve a clutter-free garage in a few minutes with an instant quote.