Clutter can make you crazy.
Too much of anything can be… well, too much.
If your garage has turned into more of a storage shed than a home for your vehicles, it might be time make some changes.
Aunt June’s box of old records and Uncle Howard’s golf clubs shouldn’t be taking up valuable garage real estate.
If you’re sentimental, don’t worry. Aunt June and Uncle Howard can occupy space in your heart instead of your garage.
You need to tackle the clutter and take back your space.
The big question is how?
Follow these steps to reclaim your garage.
1. Empty it!
The first thing to do is to take everything out of the garage.
Yes, even the things you know you want to keep. Just hold on. It’ll make sense!
As you take objects out, place them in one of four or five possible areas that you’ll have designated ahead of time:
- Throw away.
- Recycle.
- Donate.
- Items for a yard sale. This one is optional. If you don’t see yourself realistically having a yard sale in the very near future, these items can go in the donate pile!
- Keep. Only things you’ll actually use go in this pile. Hint: Aunt June’s records and Uncle Howard’s golf clubs don’t go here.
Purging may not be easy, but it will be totally worth it!
2. Perform any necessary upgrades
Once everything is out of the garage it’s a perfect time to make improvements to your garage’s interior.
Do you need to add some insulation?
Have the walls been in need of a new coat of paint?
If your ultimate plan is to really give the garage a makeover, you’ll want to think about factors like extra electrical outlets or additional lighting.
It’s much easier to take on these projects when the garage is empty!
3. Make a plan and implement it
After you’ve done all the upgrading and refinishing, you’re ready to plan out how you’d like the garage to be set up.
If you’re going for a different layout than you had previously, it may be a good idea to actually sketch out your ideas on paper.
Decide where each item from your “Keep” pile will go.
The old adage, “A place for everything and everything in its place” is a good one to keep in mind throughout your garage decluttering process!
You may want to think about adding shelving or cupboards if you didn’t have them before.
If you’re having trouble getting some creative inspiration for your garage storage, a quick Google search can give you more than enough ideas to go on!
4. Think about a new garage door
Picture this:
You’re standing in your driveway, proudly gazing at the beautiful garage you’ve worked so hard on.
You press the button on your garage door opener to close the door on your masterpiece and you hear creaking and groaning as your dented, dilapidated door makes its rickety descent.
It’s pretty clear what’s wrong with this picture.
The rest of your garage is spruced up, organized, and looking good. Shouldn’t your garage door get an upgrade, too?
Get the help of a reputable garage door company to show you what’s available. They’ll be able to advise you as to the best garage door to suit your needs and fit within your budget.
Some companies even have virtual garage door builders so that you can play around with your options online.
The benefits for you
Other than the peace of mind that comes with organization, revamping your garage will also make a nice selling-point should you ever decide to put your home on the market and your lovely new garage and fabulous new door will add to your home’s curb appeal!
Aunt June and Uncle Howard would approve.
If you could give your garage one upgrade, what would it be?