Can you fit your car in your garage?
- D'Nai Walker
- Apr 23
- 3 min read
Don’t feel bad if you can’t. In a study conducted by Home Innovation Research Labs, 25-30% of Americans have garages that are too cluttered to park a car inside. Although 84% of homeowners are using their garages for parking, about 70% of garage space in single-family homes is typically occupied by items other than vehicles, making it challenging to fit a car in the garage for many people.
A well-organized garage not only provides extra storage space but also helps in maintaining the longevity and functionality of your items. Whether you use your garage for parking, as a workshop, or for storage, organizing it can make a significant difference. Read on to learn the best ways to organize your garage, including what should and should not be stored there, the types of shelving and bins to use, and other tips to protect your belongings.
Suitable Items:
Tools and Equipment: Power tools, hand tools, lawn equipment, and gardening supplies are all perfect candidates for garage storage.
Seasonal Items: Holiday decorations, summer gear like beach chairs and umbrellas, and winter equipment like snow shovels and sleds.
Sports Equipment: Bicycles, golf clubs, tennis rackets, and other sporting goods.
Automotive Supplies: Motor oil, car wax, windshield wiper fluid, and other car maintenance items.
Home Maintenance Supplies: Paints, solvents, and other DIY project materials.
Items to Avoid Storing in the Garage:
Electronics: Extreme temperatures can damage electronic items.
Important Documents: Paper can deteriorate in fluctuating temperatures and humidity levels.
Perishable Food Items: These can attract pests and spoil quickly.
Hazardous Materials: Chemicals and hazardous materials should be stored according to safety guidelines, often outside the home.
Types of Shelving and Bins
Storage Options:
Wall-Mounted Shelves: Great for maximizing vertical space and keeping items off the floor.The Container Store’s Elfa System has amazing, customizable options to build the functional garage of your dreams!
Slat Wall System: This is a cool way to utilize wall space to clear your garage floors. They come with lots of accessories to tailor to your needs.
Freestanding Shelves: Flexible and movable, these are ideal for garages with changing storage needs.
Overhead/Ceiling Storage: Perfect for infrequently used items like seasonal decorations.
Bin Options:
Clear Plastic Bins: Get some durable, stackable,bins that allow you to see what’s inside without opening them.
Labeled Bins: Labeling bins helps in quickly identifying contents and maintaining order. Try this QR system from Elephant Trax.
Heavy-Duty Bins: Ideal for storing heavier items like tools and sports equipment.
Tips for Protecting Your Stored Items
Climate Control:
Dehumidifiers: Reduce moisture levels to prevent mold and mildew.
Insulation: Insulating your garage can help protect temperature-sensitive items.
Weatherstripping: Seal gaps around doors and windows to keep out pests and extreme weather.
Safety Measures:
Lockable Cabinets: Store hazardous materials and sharp tools out of reach of children.
Secure Hooks and Racks: Ensure that all wall-mounted storage solutions are securely anchored to prevent accidents. Consider hiring a professional to install.
Fire Extinguisher: Keep a fire extinguisher in the garage in case of emergencies.
Maintenance:
Regular Cleaning: Sweep and dust regularly to keep your garage clean and free from pests.
Periodic Inventory: Review your stored items periodically to discard anything no longer needed and reorganize as necessary.
Pest Control: Use pest deterrents and regularly check for signs of infestation.
Step-by-Step Guide to Organizing Your Garage
Declutter: Start by emptying the garage and sorting items into keep, donate, and discard piles.
Clean: Thoroughly clean the space, including sweeping floors and wiping down surfaces.
Plan: Create a layout plan for where each type of item will be stored.
Install Shelving and Racks: Set up your chosen storage solutions.
Sort and Store: Group similar items together and store them in appropriately sized bins and on shelves.
Label: Clearly label all bins and shelves for easy identification.
By following these tips and using the right storage solutions, you can transform your garage into a well-organized and efficient space. Not only will this make finding items easier, but it will also protect your belongings and make your garage a more functional part of your home.
