The garage often becomes a dumping ground for items we no longer need or use. Clutter accumulates over time, making it difficult to find what you need and limiting the functionality of this valuable space. Let's explore the best ways to clean out your garage, get rid of old items, and transform it into an organized and functional area.
Don’t know where to start? Don’t worry, your junk removal experts are here to help you with a few ideas for how to declutter your garage.
6 steps to clean out and organize your garage
1. Set clear goals
Before diving into the cleaning process, define your goals for the garage. Are you looking to create a workshop, a storage space, or simply park your car inside again? Having a clear vision will help you stay focused and motivated throughout the process.
This way, you’ll know if you need to clear out and reorganize enough to get the space you need or whether you need to empty the entire space and start again.
2. Plan and prepare
Allocate sufficient time and enlist the help of family members or friends. Gather cleaning supplies such as gloves, trash bags, cleaning solutions, and organize tools in bins, shelves, and hooks.
Also, decide whether you’ll need to rent disposal bins or whether it’s best to have a professional junk service help you.
3. Pick a decluttering strategy
There are many ways you can sort through the clutter in your garage. Here is one list to try out:
- One at a time: Decluttering a garage can be overwhelming, so it's important to break it down into manageable sections. Start with one specific area, such as a shelf or a corner, and work through it before moving on to the next. This approach helps maintain focus and prevents you from feeling overwhelmed.
- Sort and categorize: Sorting items into different categories to help keep your process moving. This step allows you to assess your belongings and make informed decisions about what to keep, donate or sell, or discard. Use boxes to sort through your things and to create categories. Here are some suggested boxes:
- Keep things that you regularly use or that have sentimental value. Be selective and avoid keeping things out of habit or a sense of guilt.
- Donate or sell items that are in good condition but no longer serve a purpose for you. These can include clothing, books, appliances, furniture, or tools.
- Repair articles that are broken or damaged but can be fixed. Set these aside to evaluate if they are worth repairing or if it's more practical to let them go.
- Trash objects that are broken, irreparable, or no longer useful. Dispose of them properly.
4. Get rid of clutter
Once you have identified items that are in good condition but no longer needed, consider donating them. Research local charities, thrift stores, or community centers that accept donations. They often welcome clothing, household items, kitchenware, toys, and other useful items. Ensure that the items you donate are clean and in working condition to maximize their value to others.
If you have items that hold value but are no longer necessary for you, selling them can be a great way to declutter while making some extra money. Consider organizing a garage sale, posting items on online classified platforms, or using popular online marketplaces. Take clear photos, provide accurate descriptions, and set reasonable prices to attract potential buyers.
Some items may be broken, damaged, or no longer usable, making them unsuitable for donation or sale. These items should be disposed of responsibly. Check your local regulations for recycling centers, electronic waste facilities, or hazardous waste collection points. These facilities can handle items such as old electronics, batteries, paint, chemicals, and other potentially harmful materials. By disposing of these items properly, you contribute to environmental sustainability and the well-being of your community.
Consider a professional junk disposal company, like 1-800-GOT-JUNK?, which can take what you don’t want. We’ll recycle what we can and dispose of the rest responsibly and safely. Check out the list of what we take and see how we can help you clear some space in your garage and throughout your home.
5. Organize and optimize space
Now that you have space in your garage, you’re going to want to keep it that way. Take steps to prevent clutter from overwhelming your garage again.
First, evaluate your storage requirements based on the items you intend to keep. Consider installing shelves, pegboards, cabinets, or overhead storage systems to maximize vertical space.
Group similar items together and label containers to easily locate them in the future. Clear plastic bins are ideal for storing and organizing smaller items. Also don’t forget to use wall space. Install hooks, pegboards, or magnetic strips to hang tools, gardening equipment, and other frequently used items. This helps free up floor space and keeps everything easily accessible.
6. Practice regular maintenance
Once your garage is clean and organized, establish a maintenance routine. Regularly sweep the floors, reorganize items, and reassess your needs to avoid clutter from building up again.
Also, evaluate your storage methods. Are they working? Should you get more bins or shelves? Is there a better way to store your items, or to use the space you have?
Start fresh in your garage with 1-800-GOT-JUNK?
Cleaning out your garage and getting rid of old items may seem like a daunting task, but with proper planning, sorting, and organizing, it can be a rewarding endeavor. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can transform your garage into a functional and clutter-free space that enhances your home's value and your daily life.
If you need help disposing of the clutter in your garage, contact your local 1-800-GOT-JUNK? franchise for a free, no-obligation quote. You can also check out our blog for more helpful topics such as easy garage organization ideas and how to get rid of sentimental clutter.
