Opt for temporary or bonus storage carts that come with wheels that can be pulled out, then tucked away when it’s not in use. “Carts, storage racks, and even cabinetry can be on wheels and all work,” says La Fond. This way, the rolling storage can float or be put away when your vehicles need to be pulled into the garage.
Use wall space for large, bulky items—not only does this help maximize your space, but it also keeps things more accessible. La Fond recommends mounting everything from power washers and a collection of holiday decorations or garden rakes to hefty power tools, and just pull them out when you need them.
Large turntables for smaller items like spray cans, cleaning supplies, or bug sprays can work wonders in terms of garage organization if you find yourself regularly using these items on DIY projects. “They’re great for deep shelves options, and they are easy to turn when accessing the items you need when you are quickly looking for something,” says Kati Wadsworth, a professional organizer and the owner of Custom Organization, LLC and More Space Place Florence.
How can I maximize my garage space?
When thinking through garage storage solutions your garage makeover, start by asking yourself, does this actually belong in the garage? “You’d be surprised how many things—like old luggage or baby clothes—can go to the basement or shed,” says Allison Welch, professional organizer and founder of As You Wish Lifestyle. Once you’ve decluttered, you can add bike racks, a golf club organizer, or storage shelves for your camping gear.
For many of the best garage storage ideas, the point is to get as many items off the ground as possible, says La Fond, the founder of the home-organizing company Of Space + Mind. “Using vertical space is one of the best tips for organization,” she says, “particularly in a garage where ceilings are generally high.” You’ll want to utilize wall space when you can and keep the floor as open as possible to reduce all the visual noise a garage can often yield. “Add hooks, shelves, or even a full wall organization system to get items higher up and off the floor, protecting them from dirt, dust, and moisture.”
Is it cheaper to buy or build garage shelves?
Though it is typically cheaper to buy garage shelves than it is to build them, adding custom shelves can have the added benefit of augmenting them with custom cabinetry. For a recent Trim Tech Designs project, Dyer, the senior designer, provided the custom cabinetry, cabinet hardware, brass toe kicks, ladder/ladder rail system, and custom-built the hat racks. All of which is just the beginning in terms of bespoke details.
However, if this or DIY garage storage isn’t for you, there are so many good ready-to-install products out there that are inexpensive and more durable than you’d expect. “Most of the time, buying ready-made shelves is much easier on your wallet, and your time, than paying for a custom garage system,” says Welch. La Fond recommends opting for products made from chrome, heavy-duty plastic, or adjustable shelves that will stand up to use and weather over time. Find these at your local Home Depot or Lowes.
What are the best storage units for garages?
Taking advantage of vertical space in a garage not only helps keep things organized, but also frees up floor space and protects items from dirt, dust, pests like mice and rats, and moisture. For these reasons, La Fond likes mounted overhead racks for storing plastic totes and seasonal items you’re not using often. “They come in a variety of sizes to fit any garage space. You can even get corner racks if your overhead storage space is limited,” she says.
For easy access, you may want to choose individual shelves, which can be wall-mounted at any height and installed for your specific needs, or splurge on custom storage. La Fond also recommends the new Elfa garage+ system as it has the feel of a custom garage storage system without requiring a huge install. “They can do fully custom designs, or you can buy one of their ready-made configurations, with everything from wall shelves to workspace surfaces and even tall garage cabinets.”
She also love a slatwall system and is a fan of GarageTek, which makes an a similar product they’ve installed into a number of garages. “Their slatwall panels are mounted directly to walls making every inch of your garage an opportunity for storage. They have accessories for everything, including bikes.”
What shouldn’t be stored in a garage?
Paint cans and electronics can be ruined if stored in extreme heat and cold. Since most garages aren’t insulated, this spot is a no-no for all these items. Paint will degrade over time in unregulated temperatures, especially as weather fluctuates for the seasons, and electronics will collect condensation in their circuit boards, internal pieces, and electrical equipment—all of which will cause warping and corrosion over time.
Pet food shouldn’t be stored in the garage either. It can attract rodents, raccoons, roaches, and any other common yard and garden pests, especially if you are in the habit of leaving your garage door open. If it’s necessary to keep it in the garage, stock your dog or cat food in sealed containers or storage bins and try to keep them off the floor as much as possible.
Anything you wish to keep in cardboard boxes shouldn’t be left in the garage for long. Cardboard boxes tend to become covered in mold and mildew because this material doesn’t protect from moisture buildup. Photo albums should never be kept in cardboard boxes because heat and cold can cause deterioration of photos and they are sensitive to light. Clothing shouldn’t be kept in cardboard either, as cloth is already prone to absorbing moisture and becoming mildewy.
How do I organize my two-car garage?
Organize a two-car garage by getting everything out of the way and opening up more floor space. “The key to being able to park both cars in the garage and still have room for storage is to get things off the floor and use your walls and overhead space for storage,” La Fond says. “But if you’re really pressed for space or need more storage, add a shed outside the garage for bulky equipment, sports gear, or gardening tools to keep your garage clear for cars.”
What are steps I can take to organize a garage?
The first step for organizing a garage is to eliminate surplus objects you’re no longer using. Donate or recycle these, and then clean out any obvious dust and dirt. After that, move items that complement each other to the same side of the garage, keeping all the garden supplies together, for example. “It’s all about creating spaces and designated zones,” says Dorn, the creative director at mDesign.
“Next, measure out your space and identify what your overall needs are,” she says. This will help you determine what furniture you can add, like lockers, storage racks, tool storage, and shelves to help with your garage organization. Dorn recently made room in her garage for a mudroom type of space next to the garage door. “This way, everyone can drop their stuff in an organized fashion before entering the house.” As a final fifth step, add in the furniture and other organizational devices that work for your space.
How do you decorate your garage?
Decorating and organizing your garage can make it feel like part of the home instead of a cluttered storage space. Hence, Wadsworth recommends taking the time to make your garage feel like an extension of your home. “Epoxy flooring with bright, fun paint colors, is a cool way to make your garage seem less drab,” she says. Further, a fresh sealing or epoxying of floors will help smooth out cracks, which will protect your garage items in the long run.
If possible, insulate and add drywall to the garage, and paint the interiors a bright, cheerful color. Welch even suggests painting storage cabinets and hanging some artwork—yes, even in the garage. It’ll make the space feel inviting instead of purely utilitarian, since most builders don’t finish garages beyond a single coat over seam lines. While you’re at it, upgrade lighting by replacing standard bulbs with LED strip lights, track lighting, or install task lighting above benches.
