Your garage is often the last frontier when it comes to home organization. It's the place where everything that doesn't have a designated spot seems to end up - tools, holiday decorations, sports equipment, things you haven't used in years, and the mystery bags of junk that appear every time to ask your kiddos to clean their rooms! Sound familiar? It can reach a point where you can't even fit your car in there. Oh no, are you already there?
If you're preparing to sell your home or just want to feel better about your space, now is the perfect time to tackle your garage and start fresh! If you are ready to move, we have some good news. Simmons Homes offers customizable options like a five-foot bump-out or added depth to fit all your storage needs in a brand new home. So let's roll up our sleeves and get your garage in top shape wih these six fun and practical tips.
1. Clear It All Out
To truly get organized, you need to start with a clean slate. Empty everything out of your garage. Yes, everything! Seeing the space completely empty will help you envision what your future garage could look lie - spacious, near, and functional. Bonus: It'll make your home more appealing to potential buyers when they see a well-organized garage.
Pro Tip: Lay down a tarp in your driveway or yard to temporarily hold your items while you sort them.
2. Purge Ruthlessly
While emptying your garage, decide what stays and what goes. Be honest: If you haven't used something in a year (or forgot you even owned it), it's time to let it go.
- Trash It: Toss broken or unusable items directly into a garbage bag or bin. Find your community refuse center to haul off trash, or rent a dumpster for bigger jobs.
- Donate It: Box up items in good condition and schedule a pickup with a local charity. Many organizations will haul away items like furniture, tools, clothing, or gently used household goods.
- Recycle It: Separate recyclables like cardboard, metal, and electronics.
Feel Good Tip: Donate old towels, blankets, or pillows to an animal shelter, and drop off books at your local library or senior center.
3. Create Storage Zones
Think of your garage as a mini department store with "zones" for different types of items. Organize your things into categories like:
- Workshop Tools
- Sports Equipment
- Gardening Supplies
- Holiday Decorations
- Sentimental Keepsakes
Store frequently used items near the garage entrance for easy access, and tuck away seasonal or rarely used items in higher or less convenient spots.
4. Maximize You Space
Now comes the fun part: designing your storage solutions! Your garage has more storage potential than you think.
- Wall Storage: Install pegboards or wall-mounted racks to hang tools, extension cords, and sports gear.
- Overhead Storage: Use ceiling-mounted racks for bulky items like bins of decorations or camping gear. Hanging your bikes frees up so much space!
- Shelving Systems: Invest in adjustable shelving units to accommodate bins, boxes, and other items. There are also so many great DIY tutorials on social media for building your own!
- Clear Bins: Opt for transparent storage bins so you can easily see what's inside without digging through.
Future-Forward Tip: If you're moving into a Simmons Home, consider adding that five-foot bump-out or extra garage depth for even more storage. It's a game-changer!
5. Label Like a Pro
A label maker might just become your new best friend! Clearly label every bin, shelf, and peg board hook so you (and future homeowners) know exactly where everything belongs.
Quick Trick: Use large, bold labels for maximum visibility, and color-code by zone for even more efficiency.
6. Maintain the Magic
The hard part is done, but keeping your garage organized takes commitment. Make it a habit to put items back in their designated spots immediately after use. Avoid the temptation to toss things into a "temporary" pile - those piles have a way of growing!
Pro Tip: Schedule a seasonal garage check-in to declutter and reorganize. Use your move as an opportunity to ensure everything in your garage has a purpose in your new home.
Ready to Start Fresh?
Once your garage is clean, organized, and ready to impress potential buyers, you'll be one step closer to your new home adventures. At Simmons Homes, we're here to make your move even better with customizable options that include garage storage solutions tailored to your lifestyle. Whether it's extra depth, a bump-out, or decked attic space, we've got you covered.
Say goodbye to the clutter and hello to a fresh start in a Simmons Home! Ready to learn more? Contact us today to explore our
home plans and start designing your dream garage.
