Tips for Organising Your Garage and Outdoor Spaces

When it comes to storage, the garage and outdoor areas tend to become a bit of a catch-all for things we don’t quite know what to do with—bikes, tools, camping gear, half-used paint tins, and the odd bits and bobs from various DIY projects. If your garage or garden shed is cluttered and in need of an organisational lift, a few small changes can make a world of difference. Let’s go through the best tips for organising your garage and outdoor spaces so they’re functional, tidy, and easy to maintain.

Clear Out the Clutter

Before jumping into storage solutions, a clear-out is in order. Garages and sheds can quickly fill up with things that we’re no longer using. Start by emptying everything out (yes, everything!). It’s easier to make choices when you’re seeing the full scale of what’s in there. Create three categories—keep, donate, and discard. Be ruthless with those half-used tins of paint or broken garden tools that you’ve been holding onto "just in case."

Once you’ve got everything sorted, you’ll already have freed up a lot of space. It’s amazing how much more inviting the area becomes when it’s free of clutter.

Plan the Space for Functionality

Think about what you want to use your garage or outdoor space for. Is it primarily for storage, or do you envision a small workspace, maybe for DIY projects or gardening? Once you’ve identified the key purposes, you can start thinking about the best ways to use the available space.

Sketch out a simple layout of where you’ll want to keep certain items. For example, frequently used tools or garden equipment should be easily accessible, while seasonal items like holiday decorations can be tucked away until needed.

Invest in Storage Solutions

Now, we come to the actual storage solutions. Investing in good-quality shelving, storage bins, and hooks can make all the difference in the world.

Wall-Mounted Shelving

Shelves are your best friend for keeping items off the floor. Opt for adjustable, wall-mounted shelves if possible, as they allow flexibility for items of varying sizes. Store heavier items like paint cans or toolboxes on the lower shelves, while lighter items or things you don’t use often can go higher up.

Clear Plastic Bins

Clear plastic bins are fantastic for storing smaller items and for keeping everything visible. Label each bin so you don’t have to go digging around when you need something. It’s also a good idea to keep a few empty bins for future storage needs, as they will inevitably crop up.

Pegboards for Tools

For all those hand tools, screwdrivers, and smaller gadgets, a pegboard is an affordable and space-saving solution. Attach it to the wall, then use hooks and clips to keep everything neatly displayed. Plus, it makes finding the right tool for the job so much easier!

Overhead Storage Racks

If your garage has high ceilings, consider overhead storage racks for items you only need occasionally. These racks are ideal for seasonal equipment, such as holiday decorations or sports gear.

Creating Zones in Your Garage

Designating zones in your garage or outdoor shed makes it easier to locate items and keeps everything in its place. Consider dividing your garage into sections for specific purposes, such as:

• Garden Supplies Zone: Keep garden tools, fertilizers, and pots together for easy access.

• Tool Zone: Use pegboards and shelves to keep tools in a designated space.

• Sports and Outdoor Equipment Zone: Store bikes, camping gear, or footballs in a separate area so it’s easy to grab and go.

Creating zones like these can reduce the chances of items getting misplaced and helps you and other family members find things more easily.

Clever Storage for Outdoor Spaces

Organising outdoor spaces like patios, sheds, or even balconies requires a bit of creativity. Here are a few ideas to consider:

Storage Benches

Outdoor benches with built-in storage are ideal for keeping smaller items like cushions, garden games, or even extra pots. They’re multi-purpose, and you can use them for seating as well.

Shed Organisation

If you have a shed, apply some of the same principles you’d use in a garage. Invest in a few sturdy shelves, hooks, and perhaps even a small workbench if you have the space. Arrange your shed items by category, and don’t forget to use the vertical space.

Garden Tool Storage

Consider a garden tool organiser that attaches to the wall or even the back of a door in a shed or garage. This type of storage keeps everything from rakes to spades in one place, making it easier to grab what you need and go.

Seasonal Storage Solutions

Organising a garage or outdoor area isn’t just a one-time activity; it requires a bit of maintenance, especially with changing seasons.

In the warmer months, store summer essentials such as garden chairs, outdoor toys, and barbecues in accessible spots. As winter approaches, consider swapping these items for winter equipment like snow shovels or heaters. Seasonal rotation can help prevent clutter build-up and allows you to find items when you need them most.

Maintenance and Regular Decluttering

Once you’ve organised your garage or outdoor spaces, keeping up with it is the key. Schedule a day every few months to do a quick tidy-up, and put things back in their designated spots. You’ll find it easier to maintain if you get into the habit of returning items after each use.

Also, declutter the space at least once a year, particularly before you bring in new items or make any major changes. This regular check-in will help you spot things you don’t need and prevent your garage or outdoor space from slipping back into chaos.

Personal Touches: Make It Your Own

Adding a few personal touches can make the space feel more enjoyable and inviting. For example, consider a rug or mat for your workspace, or even hang some outdoor-friendly art or a whiteboard for notes on projects. The more personalised the space feels, the more you’ll enjoy keeping it tidy and functional.

Getting your garage and outdoor spaces in order might take some time, but the benefits are well worth the effort. Not only will you have a functional area that meets your needs, but you’ll also avoid the frustration of searching for tools, gear, or other items in a chaotic space. By investing in a few storage solutions and committing to regular maintenance, your garage and outdoor spaces can be transformed into tidy, practical extensions of your home.

So, whether you're preparing for the next DIY project, gearing up for a bit of gardening, or simply looking to park your car without dodging boxes, these organising tips will help create a space that’s both functional and enjoyable to use.

Thanks for reading! Hope you find it useful when clearing out your space

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