How To Reclaim Your Garage This Summer

1. GIVE YOUR ITEMS A HOME

Garages can become clutter magnets when items within the space don’t have designated homes. By giving each of your items a specific spot, it allows you to contain the chaos and create a space where you can easily find (and put back!) your items. To determine where an item should belong, I recommend starting by sorting your items into general categories (automotive, gardening, yard games, tools, etc.) and decluttering items that you no longer use or need. Once sorted, work to create zones by designating certain areas of your garage for each category – remember to prioritize prime real estate for those regularly used items!

2. USE YOUR WALLS

Putting your walls to work is the key to maximizing your garage space. I love using the Rubbermaid FastTrack system because it is readily available at most local hardware stores, easy to install, offers a variety of hooks/baskets, and is a great bang for your buck! This system is perfect for storing yard tools, ladders, kid supplies, sports equipment, and more. If you are looking for additional storage for larger items or bins, wall-mounted shelving is a great option. It allow you to take advantage of vertical space while giving you the ability to adjust the shelving and customize the space to your needs.

3. DON’T FORGET THE CEILING!

If your garage has high ceilings and you aren’t utilizing that height, you could be missing out on a great storage opportunity! One way to take advantage of the extra height is by utilizing ceiling-mounted storage racks which can provide extra storage for seasonal items, holiday decor, or keepsakes. Another way to maximize the additional vertical space is to use a ceiling-mounted pulley system to store your bikes. Bikes can take up a lot of space, so this system is a great way to get them off the floor and out of the way! I recommend this storage solution for clients who like to ride bikes occasionally but don’t need access to them daily. 

4. TOYS & SPORTS EQUIPMENT ORGANIZATION

It’s amazing how quickly toys and sports equipment can accumulate! When it comes to strollers, scooters, and bikes, the Rubbermaid FastTrack system is my go-to. This system helps to get all of those bulky items off the ground, while having the flexibility to adjust the space or hooks as needs change. For smaller items such as chalk, bubbles, and water toys, I prefer to store these items in labeled bins on shelves so that each category is contained and organized.

Pro Tip: if you have extra vertical space between shelves, opt for bins with lids that can stack to maximize space!

If your garage is full of sports equipment, then a stand-alone cart may be your best option. Many carts include a basket area for balls, specialty holders for bats/tennis racks, and a variety of hooks and shelving to hold all of your gear and equipment!  

5. BIKE STORAGE

One of my main requests from clients is to help them find a better bike storage solution. Depending on your space and needs, there are a few different storage options to choose from. One of the most popular options is wall-mounted bike storage. Use bike mounts that allow the bikes to swivel in towards the wall to help save space. This option is great for getting bikes off the floor, while providing quick access for daily use.

If you don’t want to lift your bike or have younger children that you want to have independent access to their bikes, then a floor bike stand might be your best option! It allows for easy access and prevent bikes from toppling over, but keep in mind, it will take up a larger storage footprint within your garage.

Lastly, if you are just the occasional bike rider, the ceiling-mounted pulley systems can be a great way to store your bikes so they are up and out of the way, but can be quickly pulled down when needed – this solution is ideal for 9+ foot ceilings.