Organizing Tips for a Clutter-free Garage
1. Utilize storage
you already have before purchasing anything new. Old dressers are great for storing small
tools, rags, etc.
2. Make separate areas for small tools, supplies, hardware, large tools, liquids etc.
3. Purchase multiples
of the same size storage containers.
They will stack easy and give the appearance of order.
4. Keep a small file
box with numbered dividers. For each
storage unit put a label with a number on it, then list its contents on a 3x5
or 4x6 card and place the card behind the corresponding number in your file
box. This works great for boxes stored
up on rafters. Make sure you can SEE the
number on the box (write in on all four sides), then when you need something
you locate it in your file box and go straight to the correct numbered storage unit.
5. Hang large hooks
on walls. You can hang rakes, shovels,
brooms, etc on the hooks.
6. Remember tax
deductions for donations. You can donate up to $500 worth of items for each receipt:
to Hab. for Humanity, Assoc. for the
blind etc. Each time you donate you'll
receive a new receipt. Just remember to
keep each donation under $500 in value.
7. Consider selling
extra's and rarely used items. EBay is a
great place to sell items. Garage sells
are not as likely to draw as much money and take much more effort and
time. Go to http://www.ebay.com/
and click on "sell”. They make it very easy to register and teach you
everything you need to know about selling on EBay.
8. Purchase a trunk
organizer (Target, Walmart) for each vehicle. You can keep the basics in
them: jumper cables, extra oil,
anti-freeze, basic tools, bottled water.
This will get them out of your garage and will save you time and frustration
if you need them when you're away from home!
Just a friendly reminder: don't
keep extra gas in them! Some people have
actually done this – it's very dangerous!
9. Refrain from
keeping tools and equipment for sentimental reasons. If you've never used something your parents
passed down, it is likely they passed it to you because they didn't use it! Sell or donate! It is not likely that your children's bikes
will be used by THEIR kids! Sell or
donate!
