Warm weather and spring cleaning are a good opportunity to tackle the garage, a space that is often used for storage. Garages also tend to become a place for “just in case” items that may never actually be used again.
A successful garage clean out is easier when you follow a simple process: set a goal, plan your storage, sort your belongings, remove what you no longer need and finish by cleaning the space.
1. Choose a goal for your garage
Before cleaning out your garage, decide what you want to use the space for. You may want to park your car there during the winter, store outdoor tools and equipment more efficiently or create a space for projects and hobbies.
Your garage could also become a workshop, home gym or additional activity space. Having a clear goal will make it easier to decide what to keep and how the space should be organized.
2. Visualize and organize the space
Once you know what you want from your garage, choose a time when you can work on it without rushing, such as a long weekend.
Look at the available space and choose storage solutions that match your needs. Sturdy shelving can make storage easier, while wall and ceiling systems can be useful for hanging items such as rakes, brooms, bicycles, canoes, kayaks and paddles.
Use locking cabinets for toxic products, sharp tools and other potentially dangerous items.
3. Sort everything in your garage
Start by sorting your belongings and removing anything you no longer use or have duplicates of. Divide your items into four groups:
- Keep: items you still use.
- Sell: useful items in good condition that you no longer need.
- Donate: reusable belongings that could benefit someone else.
- Discard or recycle: damaged or unusable items.
Dispose of unwanted items according to your local collection rules. Used oil, certain old tools, equipment and hazardous materials should be brought to the appropriate ecocentre.
Items in good condition can be sold, offered to someone you know or donated. If your belongings are included on Entraide diabétique du Québec’s list of accepted items, you can also arrange a home pick-up.
4. Organize your garage efficiently
Once you have finished sorting, organize the items you are keeping so they are easy to find.
- Leave room for recycling bins, garbage, compost, bottles and cans.
- Avoid unnecessary clutter, since an overcrowded garage makes it harder to find what you already own.
- Label storage bins and boxes so their contents are easy to identify.
A clear storage system can help you avoid buying things you already own and makes the garage easier to maintain.
5. Clean the garage itself
A garage clean out should also include cleaning the space. Sweep or vacuum the floor and clean the walls, workbench, shelves and cabinets as needed.
A clean and organized garage is more pleasant to use and easier to keep tidy over time.
What should you do with unwanted items?
If clothing, small household items or other belongings found in your garage are still in good condition, consider donating them instead of throwing them away.
Check Entraide diabétique du Québec’s list of accepted items and see whether home donation pickup is available in your area.
