As a professional organizer specializing in garage organization, I have learned a lot about the best storage solutions for garages over the years. Unlike most rooms in the home, the garage is often a blank slate when it comes to what you can create. Whether you’re in need of storage for tools, sports equipment, or boxes, you will find that some of the following ten solutions are designed to meet your garage storage needs. However, before making any purchases, it’s essential to plan the desired layout of your garage and determine the location of different item groups. This will help guide your storage solution choices and ensure a seamless fit within your garage space. Before you start clearing things out, measure the garage and think about locations that make the most sense for the various items in the garage, keeping in mind what you will most likely throw away or donate.
The best approach to getting a garage organized is clearing everything out first. Set up tables on your driveway and small boxes or bins to sort “like with like”. Have some box cutters on hand to cut up all of those worn-out cardboard boxes that you will want to throw away. Get some large storage bins for storing the small stuff in categories and a donate and trash bin for items that you won’t be keeping. Install any of the storage solutions listed below and then find a home for everything, putting heavy items on the bottom and lighter items on top.
Wall-Mounted Shelving Units: Wall-mounted shelving units provide additional storage by utilizing vertical wall space. Look for sturdy and adjustable shelves that can accommodate tools, boxes, and sports equipment of different sizes. Similar to kitchen and bathroom cabinets, these units are attached to the wall using screws. These are the lowest cost solutions for storing boxes and small items.
Overhead Storage Racks: A relatively recent entry in the garage solutions world, these handy racks are ideal for garages with lots of things to store long term. Overhead storage racks maximize space that is typically underutilized, even when a car is parked. Ensure that the mounting screws are securely anchored into ceiling studs to prevent any damage to your vehicle.
Organize Tools with Pegboards: Pegboards offer a practical solution for organizing tools while keeping them visible. These boards feature a grid of holes where you can insert hooks, pegs, and attachments to hang and arrange tools, gardening equipment, and small items. These are one of those solutions you can’t believe you ever lived without, saving you time looking for your most frequently used tools. Many work benches today come with these boards already mounted to them. Use steel pegboards, as wood boards can dry out and deteriorate, especially the peg holes.
Stackable Storage Bins: For organizing small items in different categories, stackable plastic storage bins are an excellent choice. Clear bins are suitable for lightweight items, while the HDX line of black bins with yellow lids from Home Depot provides durability for heavier storage needs. The lids even have raised areas spaced an inch from the lid edges that line up perfectly with the bottom of the container, so they can be stacked with confidence.
Magnetic Tool Holders: Mount magnetic tool holders on the walls to keep frequently used hand tools easily accessible. They are especially useful for organizing metal tools like wrenches, screwdrivers, and pliers. Larger magnets can even be attached to pegboards for mounting metal tools.
Heavy-Duty Hooks and Hangers: Opt for heavy-duty hooks that can securely support the weight of your items. Rubbermaid and Ryobi offer systems with different types of hooks to hang anything from rakes and brooms to large bicycles. They are a little more expensive than hooks that just screw into the wall, but these track systems allow you to swap out different hook types to meet changing needs.
Standalone Storage Cabinets: Consider investing in cabinets and storage systems specifically designed for garages if you have the budget and space. These cabinets provide closed storage, protecting your belongings from dust while offering a clean and organized appearance. They also look incredible and raise the home’s resale value.
Workbench: A workbench is a valuable addition to any garage, particularly for those who spend time working on projects. Work benches have come a long way from the ‘50s era homemade plywood and two-by-four benches. Modern workbenches offer features like built-in electrical outlets, USB ports for charging tools and devices, overhead LED lights, stainless steel easy-glide doors, and lockable casters for mobility. The Seville Classics ULTRAHD workbench is highly recommended, offering all of these features at an affordable price, and you’ll never need another bench unless you drive into it with your car.
Utilize Tool Chests: Tool chests are essential for efficient storage in most garages. With drawers of various depths and sometimes a sliding or swinging door at the bottom for larger tools, they optimize the space along the walls. Consider checking platforms like OfferUp or Facebook Marketplace for used tool chests in excellent condition if you’re looking to save on your garage transformation.
Wall-Mounted Cabinets: Similar to kitchen or bathroom cabinets, wall-mounted cabinets can be a great addition to your garage. These smaller square cabinets work well for storing automotive fluids and cleaning supplies. They are typically mounted up above storage racks and work benches.
Remember that the best garage organization products will depend on your specific needs, available space, and budget. Assess your garage’s requirements and plan the organization system accordingly. I recommend investing in reputable brands such as Kobalt, Seville Classics, or Husky, as garages endure harsher weather conditions than other parts of your home. If you’re in the Phoenix area, and would like help getting your garage organized and storage products installed, visit Inspired Organizers AZ.
