Get Your Garage “Summer-Ready”: 3 Expert Tips for Decluttering and Organizing

Summer is just around the corner and with that, the opportunity to breathe some life into an often overlooked space in your home: the garage. A well-organized garage can make life easier – no more frantically searching for equipment as you’re running out the door, or trying to remember, ‘where did I put those gardening gloves after last summer?’ At NEAT Method we believe in the adage, ‘a place for everything and everything in its place.’ Now, whoever said that probably didn’t have kids that played sports, or lived in proximity to some of the best outdoor recreation in the US. However, achieving a functional garage that you actually enjoy walking into is not impossible. Here are a few tips to help get your garage summer ready:

1. Upgrade to Matching, Weather-Tight Bins

Invest in matching bins. Nothing detracts from a well-organized garage like a collection of old, mismatched bins. Upgrading to new, weather-tight bins will not only enhance the visual appeal of your garage but they will protect your belongings from dust, dirt, and moisture. Weather tight bins are more durable and long-lasting, saving you money in the long run.

2. Create zones, sort and categorize

Begin by sorting everything in your garage into categories: tools, sports equipment, seasonal decorations, etc. This will help you see what you have and what you might no longer need. Get out some Post-Its and give every bin a category, so as you are sorting you can place the items you’re keeping in their final location. Once you’ve gone through everything (yes, everything!) create zones inside your garage. Designate specific zones for different types of items (e.g., sports equipment, garden tools, etc.). This helps keep everything organized and easy to find.

3. Utilize Vertical Space with a Wall System

Get as many items off the floor as possible. There are many options for storage solutions in the garage; from pegboards, to shelving units, slat wall system, to custom built solutions. There is also a growing market of Smart Technology Integration options that can effortlessly lift and lower heavy items with the touch of a button, eliminating the need for manual labor. Consider your budget first, then take a quick inventory of what needs to be stored in your garage to determine what system or combination of systems will best fit your needs. By maximizing vertical space you are giving yourself more storage space and also more opportunities for organizational systems.

4. Label Everything

If you don’t own a labeler, you probably know someone who does, ask to borrow it. Labeling is the secret to keeping things organized. It also is the best way to teach kids how to stay organized.

Final Thoughts

Preparing your garage for summer isn’t just about tidying up—it’s an opportunity to elevate your living space too. A well-organized garage can transform your home, making your daily routines efficient and life a little less stressful. By implementing these tips with a little elbow grease, you can start your summer off right with a garage that’s ready for all your adventures and projects.

But if that sounds like too much, give NEAT a call to set up a complimentary consultation! We’re here to help create a tailored system to fit your and your family’s individual needs!

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