One of the most versatile yet unorganized places in the house is the garage. It stores everything from holiday decorations and tools to gardening equipment and any items that are too bulky to be kept inside the house. According to Rescue My Space, the garage is prone to clutter because homeowners don't take the time to create designated spots for particular items. In addition, they don't get rid of things they don't frequently use. Investing in storage containers can help keep your garage neat while also making sure items have a place to go after they're used.
An ideal place to start when organizing your garage is to eliminate things you don't use, claims SpareFoot Blog. Make different piles of items you can either throw away or donate to a thrift store. Depending on the size of your garage, it might take a few days to get through everything you own. Once you're done sorting, SpareFoot suggests creating zones for specific items. Storage units and bins will provide a handy place for everything rather than in piles on the floor. The Container Store has various storage options, and we've researched the best products you can install in your garage.
A shelving unit is perfect for holding all of your belongings together. It can keep multiple storage boxes while maximizing your garage space. According to Rackline, a shelving system can open up floor space, and there are different types of units, including ones with wooden, plastic, and metal shelves. Wooden shelving units are durable and hold heavier items; they're ideal for storing books. Plastic shelves are fine for lightweight things, but metal shelving units are better for holding heavy-duty products and are the most durable.
The Container Store's InterMetro Black Shelf Starter Unit has four wire shelves that can hold up to 300 pounds each, for $149.99. It's available in black, white, and silver, each with an epoxy-coat finish to prevent corrosion. Customers rated the shelving unit with 4.5 stars and claimed it's sturdy and easy to assemble. The shelves can be adjusted in one-inch increments, so you can place them as far apart or as close together as you like. In addition, some customers bought wheels with brakes for the unit to make it easier to move around.
Storage bins or totes are a great way to keep similar items together instead of placing them in random spots around the garage. Totes are versatile, extremely durable, and reusable, so you can move things around if needed. Plus, they're usually made of plastic materials, which makes them waterproof. Blogger RackZone.ie states that cardboard boxes need replacing more often than plastic tote containers because they wear and tear faster. If you don't want to purchase a shelving unit, tote containers can be stacked, so they'll still free up floor space and create a more organized area.
These Clear Weathertight Totes from The Container Store are available in various sizes, from 6.5 quarts to 156 quarts, and range in price from $14.99 to $64.99. The totes are made from clear plastic. In addition, they have durable and robust latches that secure the lid and protect your items. Customers raved over the clear totes rating them with 4.5 stars. Some reviewers state they've been using the totes for more than two years without trouble, and their items are always safe.
If you play a sport, or multiple sports, you probably store all your equipment in the garage. A designated area for your bats, balls, and rackets make them easier to grab while heading out the door. More Space Place suggests storing your sports items to keep them in good condition, especially if you have kids that also play sports — you don't want to have to replace missing items regularly. The Heavy-Duty Sports Storage Rack from The Container Store can hold all your sports equipment.
It's $119.99 with a 4.7-star rating and has a durable steel frame with two wire-grid bins. The top bin can hold 30 pounds, while the lower container can hold 44 pounds. Place your tennis or golf balls on the upper grid and soccer balls and bats on the lower half. On the side of the storage rack, there are a few hooks to hang water bottles or hats. Customers who liked the product said it made organizing their sports and gym essentials efficient without taking up a lot of space.
Finding storage for smaller materials, like nails and screws, can be challenging. Keeping them in Ziplock bags can create clutter and it can be difficult to determine which hardware is in which bag. Clear trays will make keeping loose hardware easier by providing extra compartments and making it easier to tell what type of hardware is in each drawer, explains Tools Owner. In addition, trays with lids can be lifesavers because if you accidentally knock them over, then every piece won't scatter across the floor.
The Container Store has this versatile 3-Case Storage Chest made of translucent plastic for $69.99. The chest has three cases, each divided into two 2 ½ inches deep compartments, and can be mounted on a wall to maximize space. It has a 4.7-star rating, and customers claim they like the portable case and how it can keep all their items organized and safe.
If you prefer open storage containers to closed containers, stackable bins can make storing your garage items much easier. When the bins are stacked, you won't have to remove the crates on top. Instead, you'll be able to dig through each one hassle-free. Stackable bins can be used for storing tools, blankets, seasonal décors, etc., and can even be placed on a shelving unit to free up more space.
The Utility Extra Wide Stackable Bins from the Container Store are versatile and durable to fit anywhere in your garage. They are available in white and gray for $15.99 each, but they offer different sizes for different prices. The sturdiness and depth are why customers gave the stackable bins a 4.4-star rating. One review liked how they could easily reach into the bin without unstacking the other containers. Another reviewer claimed they used a crate for their cutting boards and cookie sheets, placing it in their pantry for quick access.