Millions of homeowners have garages that are so full that they cannot park a car. Organization is the solution to this problem. However, the issue is that many people have no idea where to start, so their attempts to organize their garage keep failing. With these tips, homeowners will have a better sense of what they can do to get their garage clutter under control.

1. Create a Storage Plan

Creating a storage plan helps homeowners identify what they want to do with the garage, which makes it easier to implement. People should start by making a list of:

• What to store
• Where it should go, like on a wall or hanging from the ceiling
• How often it will be used, and by whom

This list will make the next steps run more smoothly.

2. Identify Storage Needs

There are a variety of garage storage options designed to work with home tools, sports equipment, and lightweight seasonal decorations. Homeowners should map out the garage and figure out what they will need, including:

• Freestanding work stations with tables and cabinets
• Customizable wall storage like cabinets, adjustable shelving and hooks
• Overhead storage

People who are not sure what to buy may want to select a system they can customize as their storage needs change.

3. Involve the Family

Many garages end up being a cleaning chore for adults because they are not set up for children. However, even toddlers can learn to put their toys away if the storage will accommodate their needs. Parents should involve their kids in the initial design and decluttering phases of the project to help ensure they can follow the rules once the garage organization is complete.

4. Sort Clutter

For many people, the best way to sort clutter is to remove it from the space and decide what to bring back in. Homeowners can take everything to the yard or an empty room in the house. There, they should put all the items into these piles:

• Donate
• Sell
• Throw away
• Put in a different room

This process ensures that only relevant belongings go back to the garage.

5. Devise a Long-Term Organization Plan

Garage organization only works if people are committed to keeping it that way from the beginning. Homeowners may want to implement a schedule for cleaning the garage and putting items away once a week. Sticking to the schedule helps to stop clutter from taking over the space again.

Organizing the garage may take years, or it could take a few days. By using these tips, homeowners can make space in the garage that they will actually use.