Has your garage become the
family dump for everything from old bicycles and tools to suitcases and toys?
It’s not uncommon due to a garage’s large size to become the resting place for
many items that no longer fit in your bedroom closet or that you aren’t ready
to part ways with.
The good news is that you do have a place for all of your belongings.
It’s just a matter of making the best use of your garage space so that your
things are more visible,
reachable and usable. Here are a few tips for turning your garage into
a functional, orderly space.
Out with the old
One of the best ways to clean
up a cluttered garage is by getting rid of the things you never use. Hold a garage sale and even earn a little
extra cash while making room in your garage. For other items that simply need
to go, donate them to a charitable organization or put them out for pick up with
the trash or recycling. You’ll enjoy your garage’s new, clutter-free space and
probably even use what’s left of your things more regularly as they will be
easier to find.
Hang high
Seasonal
items such as holiday decorations and camping gear can be stored away neatly in
high shelving units. Fasten wood shelving or rack units to wall studs and suspend
them from the ceiling where they’ll stay out of sight and out of the way.
Utilize wall space
Maximize garage space and clear
items from the garage floor by making good use of your walls. You can do this
by mounting pegs or hooks to hold tools, rakes, bicycles, strollers, cords and
other items securely on your wall. For basketballs, soccer balls and other
runaway sports gear, you can also string up a mesh-like hammock in the corner
of the garage to keep them from rolling away.
Safety first
If you have the space,
install lockable, well-ventilated cabinets to hold chemicals, cleaning
supplies, paint cans, pesticides and other hazardous household items. Cabinets
not only look nice, but they will keep dangerous substances locked inside—preventing
careless spills and keeping pets and small children out.
Stop tripping over the mess in your garage and start reclaiming your space. Whether you’re looking to regain your parking spot or finally clear the clutter that has been accumulating for years, it doesn’t have to take a lot of time or money to turn your garage back into a working, practical place that the entire family can enjoy.
For more do-it-yourself ideas visit the Home Channel TV website.