Is your garage little more than stacks of junk, possibly with enough room to house a car? If so, you're far from alone. Too many people allow their garages to get out of hand, and they end up under-utilizing a space that could be far more useful.

However, even the messiest garage can be cleaned up and organized. Doing so might take a week or two, but it's well worth the effort because it will pay off for years to come.

We have a long history of helping people implement garage storage solutions like garage slatwall systems, and frequently help in cleaning up poorly organized spaces and beautifying garages by resurfacing garage floors. Here are some of our most important tips.

1 - Get Rid of the Junk

As a rule of thumb, if there's something in your garage that's been there for over a year without being used, just get rid of it. You'll probably never need it again, and it's just taking up space.

If possible, hold a garage sale. The proceeds can help pay for any other upgrades you want to install.

2 - Move Unsafe or Wasteful Items out of Your Garage

There are a lot of things that really shouldn't be kept in your garage for reasons of health, safety, or efficiency. These include:

• Propane Tanks - They're too easy to accidentally ignite. Propane should always be stored outside, on either concrete or naked dirt.
• Paper Products - Old magazines, newspapers, documents, etc, will attract pest insects that eat plant matter. They can also attract rats and similar creatures who make nests of the paper.
• Paint - Paint should be stored somewhere with heating & air conditioning since it can be ruined by extreme heat or cold.
• Unfrozen food of any type, including pet food.  Do you want raccoons? This is how you get raccoons.
• Freezers Maybe - Having a freezer in an space without heating will force it to work a lot harder and use more power. Don't keep a freezer in your garage unless you know you'll be making frequent use of it and are keeping the room heated in the cold temperatures. 

3 - Don't Store Items on the Ground

Whatever garage storage solutions you choose to implement, they should be elevated. It's too easy for water to make it into a garage, not to mention the potential for various vehicle fluids to get spilled. Anything kept directly on the ground is at risk of damage.

If possible, even your tables and drawers and such should be slightly elevated, on inch-high legs, to prevent their bottoms from being damaged.

4 - Lock up Dangerous Chemicals

Certain chemicals such as cleaning products, pool acid, and similar things are best kept away from your main house. The garage is a good enough storage space for them. However, they shouldn't be sitting out in the open. Invest in a closet or other cabinetry with a locking mechanism so that they can be safely stored away when not in use. This goes double if you have children or inquisitive pets.

5 - Invest in Vertical Storage Systems

Slatwalls are one of your best friends in organizing a garage. They can hold a huge number of items while keeping those items close at hand and easily accessible. They can also hold up ladders and many tools, potentially adding even more vertical storage for a small initial investment.

6 - Make Use of Overhead Space

Garages almost always have more headroom than a typical interior space. Don't let that space go to waste! If there's sufficient overhead space, you might even look into adding overhead storage racks.

7 - Finish the Floor

If your garage still has a plain concrete slab for a floor, it should be finished. A resinous floor coating will add a lot of protection, making the floor stronger, as well as stain-resistant. In addition, a resinous floor coating can also be quite visually appealing, and make your garage nicer to work in.

8 - Categorize Your Items

Before you start putting everything away, it's important to categorize your items. Group similar items together, such as sports equipment, gardening tools, automotive supplies, and so on. This will help you determine what type of storage solutions you'll need.

9 - Prioritize Frequently Used Items

When deciding where to store your items, prioritize frequently used items by placing them in easily accessible locations. For example, you may want to store your gardening tools near the garage door so you can quickly grab them when you need them.

10 - Use Clear Containers

Instead of storing your items in cardboard boxes or opaque containers, use clear containers to make it easier to see what's inside. This will save you time when searching for a specific item and help you avoid rummaging through boxes.

11 - Label Everything

To take organization a step further, label everything. This will make it easier to find items and ensure that everything is put back in its proper place. Labeling can be as simple as using a marker on a container or investing in a label maker.

12 - Install Cabinets

Cabinets are another great way to maximize storage space in your garage and make the garage more attractive. This will help keep your items off the floor, organized, and dust-free.

13 - Create a Workspace

If you plan on using your garage as a workspace, be sure to create an area dedicated to your projects. This can be as simple as setting up a workbench with drawers for your tools. Having a designated workspace will help you stay organized and focused on your projects.

14 - Install Lighting

Garages can be dark and dreary places, which can make it difficult to find what you're looking for. Installing adequate lighting will not only make it easier to find your items but also create a safer workspace. You can install overhead lighting, task lighting, or even motion-sensor lighting to improve visibility.

15 - Consider Climate Control

If you plan on storing items in your garage that are sensitive to temperature and humidity, such as electronics or artwork, consider installing climate control. This can include adding insulation, a dehumidifier, a heater or even air conditioning. Climate control will help protect your items from damage and ensure they last longer.

16 - Maintain Organization

Once you've organized your garage, it's important to maintain it. Make it a habit to put items back in their proper place after use and avoid accumulating unnecessary items. Regularly declutter your garage to prevent it from becoming cluttered again.

Organizing your garage can be a daunting task, but it's worth the effort. By following these tips and investing in the right storage solutions, you can transform your garage into a usable space that meets your needs.

Keeping Garages Organized With Simple, Ongoing Habits

Organizing your garage isn't just a one-time project, it's an ongoing effort. After you've taken the time to declutter and put things in their proper place, you'll want to maintain the cleanliness and organization of your garage.

Regularly sweep and dust: Use a broom or leaf blower to clean the floors and surfaces of your garage. This will help keep dust and debris from accumulating and make it easier to spot any spills or leaks.

Put things back where they belong: After you've used something, make sure to put it back in its designated spot. This will prevent clutter from building up and make it easier to find things when you need them.

Label storage containers: Use labels or markers to identify what's inside your storage containers. This will help you quickly locate items when you need them.

By adopting these simple habits, you can maintain the cleanliness and organization of your garage and avoid the need for a major cleanup in the future.

Choosing a Garage Cabinet and Organization Company

If you're looking to upgrade your garage storage, consider working with a professional cabinet and organization company. These companies can help you design and install custom storage solutions that maximize your space and meet your specific needs.

Experience: Look for a company with a proven track record of successful garage storage installations. Ask for references and check online reviews to get an idea of their past work and customer satisfaction.

Expertise: Find a company that specializes in garage organization and storage solutions. They should have a deep understanding of the unique challenges of garage storage, such as dealing with moisture and the need for durable materials.

Customization: Every garage is different, so you'll want to work with a company that can create a custom storage solution tailored to your needs. Look for a company that offers a variety of materials, colors, and configurations to choose from.

Installation: Ask about the company's installation process. Do they handle everything from start to finish, including the removal of old storage solutions and cleanup? Will they work around your schedule and minimize disruptions to your daily routine? Will they remove your content, store it, and them replace your content?

Warranty: Make sure the company offers a warranty or guarantee on their products and installation. This will give you peace of mind that your investment is protected.

We're Cleveland's top choice for garage floor resurfacing, garage storage solutions, garage slatwall systems, and other great ways to turn your garage into an excellent working space. Whether you're a private homeowner or running a commercial garage operation, we have products that make your garage better. Contact us to learn more and get a free estimate.