What better time to organize that area of our home that we are not inclined to attempt in the fall or winter.  The space I am referring to is the garage.

 

If you are late to your children's sporting events because you can't find their equipment or you are still parking the car in the driveway, you know it's time to clean out and organize. Let's face it, this area is not the most exciting or cleanest spot, but you know you need to deal with it.

So let me help you make it as easy as I can, by giving you some guide lines and tips.

 

I recommend first checking out your weather forecast, to see when you will have a couple of days of good weather. Nothing would be worse then getting your belongs out in the driveway and have a storm come in and ruin everything.

 

Now lets begin by setting up three different areas, possible in the driveway, and labeling these areas DONATE, TRASH and KEEP. Start in one section of your garage and as you bring out each item place it in the appropriate labeled area.  Continue around the garage until the entire area is empty.

 

A note on trash removal. Check with your trash collection company before discarding of any hazardous waste like old paint or lawn chemicals.

 

Once the garage is empty, I would suggest a good cleaning out, either by broom, hose or leaf blower.  You are now ready to begin organizing.

 

Look at what you have decided KEEP and sort these items according to how they function. For example, garden tools and supplies, sports equipment, household items, paint, tools, and auto, etc.

 

When placing your belongings back into the garage, set up zones or  sections, and look at what you have and decide what will work best to store and contain your items.

There are several options to choose from for storage, in all different price ranges.

 

There are wall mounting peg boards that you can hang yourself to hold tools, garden and sports equipment, or you can hire a company that will come in and set up a system for you. Shelving in plastic or metal is always an option. Cabinets hung on the wall work well for extra household items like paper towels, and laundry soap.

Clear plastic bins are great for keeping the dirt out, while still being able to see what is inside.

 

What ever route you choose to go, having a clean and organize garage will be so rewarding, and will give you a sense of pride every time you come home.

 

I hope with these tips and suggestions will help you muster the motivation to start and finish this dreaded area of the home, and finally be able to use the garage for what it is intended for, parking the car.

 

Just think how nice it will be this winter when you don't have to scrape the car windows.

 

Live Simply

Joan

   

   

Joan Heath, owner of Organize It All is married with three grown children. As a previous single mother organizing was a must.

Over the years Joan has had variety of jobs in the medical and dental fields.

Joan has volunteered her organizing skills to several non-profit organizations including her church, where she set up a new kitchen and a quest services storage room.