The Ghastly Garage

• Is your garage housing everything but your car? Fear not! You are not alone. The dilemma of organizing your garage is due to the myriad of possible uses for this space. Is it a gardening shed? Is it a workshop? Is it a tool crib? Is it a toy storage unit?
• Begin by listing the types of storage your garage is used for (i.e. snow removal, gardening, auto maintenance/repair, toys, sporting equipment, recycling center.)
• Sort items as you remove them from the garage into the categories you have listed. This is also a good time to remove items that you can donate, recycle, sell or dispose of.
• Assess each tool as you are clearing the garage, does it need service, sharpening, parts or general cleaning?
• Once your garage is empty, look at your storage units. Do you have pegboards, shelves, hook hangers, and clear covered or other storage containers sufficient to contain what you will be putting back? If not, now is the time to obtain what you need.
• Capture unused wall space, such as that above the front of your automobiles or garbage cans for off-season storage. Install your new storage units, then replace items by category to make retrieval easier.
• Consider rotating the items that are needed most each season to the prime storage areas.
• Safety First - Flammable and toxic materials need to be kept out of the reach of small children. A locked storage cabinet is a necessity in homes with small children and pets.
• Remember to protect your garage in case of fire by storing at least one multipurpose fire extinguisher (for all types of fires) in an accessible location.
• Take inventory now of what you will need for the upcoming season so when items go on sale you will have a list of needed supplies.  You will never again face that first snow storm without ice melt or spring planting season without the new garden gloves that you need.