Re-envision your garage experience this year. Like most of you, we need to course-correct our garage storage systems to suit our ever-changing needs. As hobbies evolve and kids grow up, our own collection of stuff quickly turns begins to look more like clutter.
"As we step into the New Year, it’s the perfect time to set goals that elevate not just our homes but our daily lives," shared Aaron Cash, President & Co-Founder of Garage Living. Before you get all panicky about the ongoing work that comes with having an organized space, make practical decisions that'll work for your home and lifestyle. Here are Aaron's top resolutions to help us all achieve a clutter-free and stress-free garage:
1. Commit to Quarterly Decluttering
Resolution: "I will schedule quarterly decluttering sessions to ensure my garage remains clean, organized, and functional year-round."
A clutter-free garage begins with regular purging. Set aside time each season to sort through items, deciding what to keep, donate, or discard.
2. Invest in an Organizational System
Resolution: "I will implement a comprehensive storage system to optimize my garage space."
Slatwall panels, overhead racks, and custom cabinetry will maximize your space and make everything easy to find. Look around to get inspiration from others; an organized garage might just be one shelving unit away.
3. Use Vertical and Overhead Space Wisely
Resolution: "I will ensure my garage is clutter-free by taking advantage of vertical space and overhead storage solutions."
A well-planned layout can transform your garage, and vertical storage is the best way to keep things off the garage floor. Overhead storage keeps seasonal decorations or rarely used items out of the way, while storage bins with lids reduce visual clutter. We like using wall systems with simple box shelves for essentials like cleaning supplies that are better kept within reach for frequent use.
4. Create a Dedicated Hobby Area
Resolution: "I will transform a corner of my garage into a dedicated space for hobbies or projects."
A workbench with proper lighting and storage is a game-changer. It’s about making your garage a space that serves your passions, not just your storage needs. Everyone's assortment of sports gear, recreational equipment, and gardening supplies varies, so consider what works best for your interests. Your entire garage should center around what you use, whether you use plastic storage bins, lockable cabinets, or slatwall storage with a variety of adjustable shelves and hooks.
5. Commit to a Clean and Polished Garage
Resolution: "I will keep my garage looking as good as any room inside my home."
Durable polyaspartic flooring and regular maintenance make a huge difference. A clean, polished garage is a space you’ll enjoy every day.
6. Stop the ‘Storage Dump’ Mentality
Resolution: "I will prevent my garage from becoming a catch-all for items I don’t need."
Regularly evaluate what’s in your garage and on your floor space, and make tough decisions. Keep only what’s essential or meaningful. Duplicate garden tools that are in good condition? Donate them if you suspect someone else in your community will use them more often than you will. A 14" bike that your kid outgrew years ago? There's probably a family down the street that'd be happy to have the hand-me-down. Seasonal items tossed into the corner? This is a great time to get them put away properly (ideally on a high corner shelf where you don't have to look at them again until next season).
7. Organize Seasonally for Accessibility
Resolution: "I will adapt my garage organization based on the seasons to ensure accessibility and efficiency."
Rotate items bulky items like lawn care equipment, garden tools, holiday decorations, and camping gear to ensure what you need is always front and center.
