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Who doesn’t have a space at home that serves as a catch-all for items that seemingly have no other home? For many, this storage wasteland where items go to be forgotten tends to be the garage. Before long, clutter can overwhelm the space and create an eyesore. Garage clutter also makes the space less functional, making parking a vehicle or storing equipment harder.
Organizing a garage takes work, but the result can improve the appearance, free up space, make work more efficient, and make it easier to find and use tools more readily. Here are some ways to get started on organizing your garage.

Start with cleaning and culling
One of the first steps when organizing a garage is to thoroughly analyze what is needed and what can be removed. If items belong elsewhere, such as in a shed or the basement, move them first. Discard damaged or broken items. Next, move on to tools or gear that haven’t been used. Will you use it again? If the item has been collecting dust for years, you likely already know the answer.
Pile all items in the driveway so you have a clean slate with which to start. Measure the room to determine the dimensions and determine how much wall space is available for storage.

Free up floor space
According to Stacey Schweiger of Sunshine Organizing, the ultimate goal of a garage storage renovation is to make floor space available. Lifting items off the floor makes access easier and protects them should there be a flood or leak.
A combination of wall shelves, overhead shelves, cabinets, and wall hooks can help homeowners create more floor space. Organization becomes easier when everything has a designated space where it can be easily returned.

Consider weight
When investing in shelving and racks, remember that many items stored in garages tend to be heavy. It’s important to ensure that shelves and hooks are heavy-duty and able to withstand the weight of pressure put on them. Verify the maximum weight so that racks will not buckle or tip over and cause issues.

Utilize overhead space
Overhead storage can be reserved for items that aren’t used frequently, such as seasonal decorations or luggage.

Out of sight
Some items should be stored out of sight and beyond the reach of children and pets. Cabinets and containers can be locked to secure materials, such as fertilizers, paints, solvents, and other chemicals.

Additional ideas
Magnets, pegboards, organization bins and systems, and similar products can be used to corral small or errant items like hand tools, fasteners, and more.