How can I better organize my garage?

Use Vertical Space

Take advantage of the vertical space in your garage by smartly using the walls for storage. Put up rows of shelving, hang some recycled cabinets or install a specialized garage storage system to help you more efficiently use your wall space.

If you want to save some money, instead of buying special bins and boxes, you can create storage containers out of things you have around the house. For example, old jars work well for screws, nails and other small items. Use a screw or two to attach the jar lid to the underside of a shelf. Fill the jar with whatever, and screw the jar onto its top. Hang on to those sturdy shoe boxes because they make good storage containers. Just remember to label the contents. And that extra laundry basket can come in handy as well to store sports gear.

And don't forget about pegboard. It's great for storing your tools, and if you draw outlines of your tools it makes it easier to keep them organized and to quickly see if something is missing. Make sure to secure bulkier items to the pegboard with a bungee cord. And to maximize your vertical space,mount a row of shelves above the pegboard to store seasonal items or things you don't need everyday. Just keep a sturdy step stool or ladder handy so you can safely access overhead gear.

Re-purpose a straight metal rake that may have seen better days. Remove most of the handle, drill a pilot hole through the remainder and screw it to the wall using a good strong anchor. It's perfect for hanging your garden tools from the tines.

Label Everything

Not only will this help you quickly identify what's in boxes and bins, but labeling shelves and cabinets can also help make sure it gets put back in it's place after use.

Create Storage Zones

Consider creating storage zones based on use. For example, keep kids toys together and within reach of the kids because the easier it is to put away the toys, the more likely it will happen. Keep your tools together in one zone, your gardening gear in one zone and your holiday decor in another.

Create Activity Toolkits

Use buckets or easy-to-carry-bins to create activity toolkits that let you grab and go for DIY tasks you do on a routine basis. A paint kit with brushes, tarps, a paint pan and tape makes it easier to get a fast start. For a wall repair kit include spackle, tape, putty knife and sand paper. A car wash bucket with soap, sponge, towels, wax, windex or wipes makes it very convenient to send the kids out to wash the car.

Raised Stored Items Off the Ground

Because the garage can get dirty and wet, it's best to protect your belongings that are in boxes by storing them off the ground. Use pallets or a few two by fours or even some bricks to make sure paper boxes don't sit directly on the ground.

Old metal garbage cans are great for storing bags of soil and fertilizer. Just drill some holes in the bottom so that the nutrients in the soil or fertilizer can "breathe" and store them up off the ground a bit.

Check your state and local codes before starting any project. Follow all safety precautions. Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy and safety of this information. Neither Westlake nor any contributor can be held responsible for damages or injuries resulting from the use of the information in this document.